the-katy-house-195972

Best of Nominations are in & We Scored Two BIG ones!

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 19:42:05 GMT

We scored THREE BIG Nominations!

Bastrop County Best of Contest

Best Hotel 2. Best Bed & Breakfast 3. Best Customer Service

As we approach our sixth year of owning the historic Katy House, I've been slowing down to reflect on what it means to be caretakers of this home - and your guest experience. Running a bed and breakfast in a fast-changing world brings plenty of questions: Are we doing enough? Are we doing it right? Will they come back? But those questions quiet quickly when we witness guests gather around our breakfast table, when the rocking chairs are in use with morning coffee or evening glass of wine, and when we witness the porch swing become a haven for someone's soul - even just for a day or two.

There's no formula here. Our role is simple: to love well - both boldly and quietly . To serve without expectation. And to pray that a heart finds rest within these sweet walls, surrounded by this sweet town.

So, it's on days like this - when we receive incredible, AMAZING news - that I'm reminded just how many lives and family stories this home has impacted over the years. It's humbling. It's energizing. And it's a small proof, there's still a place for quiet porches, homemade breakfasts, and small-town stays that feel like home.

Thank you for every kind word, every visit, and every vote of confidence. If The Katy House has meant something to you, we'd be honored to have your vote in the Best of Bastrop County contest . More than anything, we're simply grateful you're part of our story.

~ The Katy House Family

2025: Three small Texas towns with July 4th Celebrations!

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 19:35:08 GMT

Small town July 4th Celebrations in Smithville & Beyond...

Celebrations from

June 28th thru July 5th, 2025

Who said you can only celebrate July 4th on July 4th?!? Well, not in small-town Texas! Here, Independence Day festivities stretch across a full week in our neighboring towns. There are so many AMAZING ways to celebrate this year and we have your snapshot guide to navigating the festivities all around us.

Three small-town celebrations honoring the birth of America's Independence

From Bastrop, to Smithville to Round Top, TX we're excited to share what's happening to celebrate July 4th - including events that don't fall on July 4th ( at least, the ones we know about so far! ).

Bastrop, Texas

Snapshot: Pet & Pal Parade, Retail Specials, Family Games, Live Music, Fireworks

Saturday, June 28

8am: Registration for the Pet and Pal Parade

9am: Bastrop Pet and Pal Parade. Begins at the County Courthouse.

Dress up your pets (& your people!) in patriotic flair!

10am - 12pm: Freedom on Wheels. South Main Street transforms into a pop-up play street.

Bring anything with wheels (no motors!) and roll through the car-free zone.

11am - 6pm: Stars & Stripes Hunt in downtown retail shops

5pm - 7pm: Game time! Sack hops, water balloon tosses, etc.

6pm - 9:30pm: Fun at Fisherman's Park (music & concessions)

At Dark: Fireworks Show!

Smithville, Texas

Snapshot: Live Music, Great food, Arts & Crafts, Cornhole Tournament, Fireworks

Friday, July 4th

9:30am: Bike Decoration Station at Railroad Park on Main Street. Bikes, Golf Carts, Scooters, etc

10:30am: July 4th Parade on Main Street!

Option 1:

3pm: Family-friendly fun starts at the Smithville VFW

Events include:

3:30pm-5:30pm: BINGO

5:30pm - 7pm: Dinner & Old-Fashion Cake, Pie & Cobbler Walk

7:15pm: Reading of Preamble & Declaration of Independence by Smithville kids!

7:30pm - 9pm: Live Music & Dancing

9pm: Fireworks

Option 2:

4pm: Fun starts at the Smithville Brewing Company

Events include:

4pm: Kona Ice Snow Cones perfect for keeping cool!
4pm-6pm: Live music
7pm - 10pm: Live Music by Sledge & Haney
9pm: Fireworks. Catch the City of Smithville Fireworks right

from the brewery around 9pm!

Round Top, Texas

Snapshot: the parade of parades, BBQ time, Games and Contests, live music, and more...

Friday, July 4th

175th July 4th Annual Parade

Believe it or not, Round Top hosts the longest running Fourth of July parade this side of the Mississippi!

10:30am: It's parade time! Be there to witness one of the best small-town parades in Texas…

pack up a chair, some snacks and your favorite drinks then join in on the fun!

11:00am - 4pm: Fun at Rifle Hall (antique tractors, blacksmith display, contests, etc)

11:30am and on… BBQ the Rifle Hall

Saturday, July 5th

Fireworks & Fun at The Compound

5pm - 9pm: music, food, activities and Fireworks!

Fun for the whole community!

We Made the Sunday Paper!

Sun, 06 Apr 2025 18:21:24 GMT

A Hidden Gem. Smithville, Texas

There's so much I want to say, and share with you about this moment, but let me just start here…this was a miracle in the making. Years in the making.

Carrying on the legacy of service from the two previous Katy House owners is a gift within itself.

To witness the joy and pride in the eyes of The Katy House founders, as they see their vision continue to live and breathe - is absolutely priceless.

To be pictured side-by-side with Bruce - in the Austin American-Statesman Sunday paper - has me in a puddle of tears as I type. I want to forever hold onto his beaming smile and bear hug as we celebrated the moment on the front porch in rocking chairs.

USA Today and Austin American-Statesman reporter, Michael Barnes spent the day in Smithville taking in the sites, the food and the community. He got it. He just got it. Sometimes it's hard to put your finger on that ‘exact’ thing that makes Smithville so special, but Michael absorbed it all and articulated his experience and observations so beautifully. To celebrate and acknowledge so many local businesses means the world!

Here's a link if you'd like to read the article .

30 Years of Service

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 20:35:10 GMT

Our 30th Anniversary as a Bed & Breakfast

Honoring the Legacy of The Katy House Bed & Breakfast

30 years of hospitality at The Katy House Bed & Breakfast: t his year marks a milestone we’re both honored and humbled to celebrate!

What began in 1994 as a heartfelt vision has become a beloved home away from home for thousands of guests over the years. Nestled in the heart of Smithville, Texas, The Katy House has welcomed travelers from near and far with charm, comfort, and true Southern hospitality. And through it all - changing seasons, new owners, and countless home-cooked breakfasts - the heart of this place has never wavered: service of others through connection and care.

We’ve had the privilege of hearing guests’ stories over morning coffee, hosting anniversaries, weddings, and long-overdue getaways, and watching guests become friends and many friends becoming family. We’ve carried on the legacy of our founders and continued to pour love into every room, every porch rocker, and every plate served with intention.

As we reflect on three decades of warm welcomes, we’re deeply grateful for the Smithville community that surrounds us, the travelers who choose us, and the history that shaped us. Thank you for making The Katy House what it is—not just a place to stay, but a place to be cared for.

Here’s to the next chapter—and to many more memories made under this roof.

Drumroll for the 'Best Of ' Results

Sat, 21 Oct 2023 16:32:01 GMT

'Best of' RESULTS are in &

We scored TWO BIG WINS

In December, Joe & I will be celebrating our 4th year as owners of The Katy House! It's been 4 years of all the feels. All the emotions. All the what ifs, how tos, should we, uh ohs, and so many - YAYAYAYAs !!

Even to this day, when a reservation comes through I still can't believe someone chose us. Someone chose to spend their money at our little, small business. Someone decided they wanted to give us a try OR better yet someone chose to come back for a second, seventh, or twentieth time. If you've ever been a guest here, then You are the Someone . I truly can't thank you enough for trusting us to carry on the legacy of Bruce & Sallie , Linda & Stu while also building so many new relationships along the way.

These awards also represent the incredible work of our staff. What a gift each of them are to my life and to this home of service.

What an honor to be here. Thank you, thank you, thank you! It means the world to know people voted us Best Bed and Breakfas t in Bastrop County and 1st Runner-Up in Best Hotel in Bastrop County.

~ The Katy House Family

Three small towns with three amazing July 4th Celebrations!

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 23:41:23 GMT

Small town July 4th Celebrations in Smithville & Beyond...

July 1st thru July 4th, 2023

We don't want to make this complicated, BUT there are SO MANY amazing choices when it comes to how you could celebrate this upcoming Fourth of July weekend.

3+ days of SMALL-TOwn celebrations honoring the birth of America's Independence.

From Smithville, Texas to our small-town neighbors, we are so excited to share all the July 4th happenings… at least, the ones we know about. We promise, we'll do our best to keep this blog updated as we learn of more celebrations in our local area.

Bastrop, Texas

Snapshot: 5k & Kids Fun Run, Pet & Pal Parade, Market Days, Cornhole Tournament, Music, Fireworks

Saturday, July 1

8am: Bastrop Stampede: Kids Mile Fun Run & 5k

8:30am: Registration for the Pet and Pal Parade

9:15am: Judging for the Pet and Pal Parade

10am: Bastrop Pet and Pal Parade will be kicked-off & led by Honor Choir! Begins at the County Courthouse & ends at

Bastrop Opera House.

10am - 5pm: Market Days & Downtown Bastrop BANGO

11am - 7pm: Cornhole Tournament

6pm: Fun at Fisherman's Park (music & concessions)

DUSK: Fireworks at Fisherman's Park!

Smithville, Texas

Snapshot: Live Music, Great food, Arts & Crafts, Cornhole Tournament, Fireworks

Saturday, July 1st

1pm - 2:30pm: Drawing & Painting with teens at Smithville's Lost Pines Artisans Alliance

6pm - 9pm: Live Music by Blake Herms! Pop-up: Fried fish by Gumbeaux Man at Smithville Brewing Company

7pm: Chris Duarte concert at Fat Cat Lounge (tickets needed)

8pm - 12am: Red, White & Blue party at Carne Lenta

Sunday, July 2nd

12pm - 9pm: Beer Booth, Food, Arts & Crafts Vendors at Riverbend Park

12pm: Cornhole Competition at Riverbend Park

3:30pm: Downtown Patriotic Parade on Main Street

4pm - 8pm: Live Music (Nathan Colt Young Band) at Riverbend Park

6pm: Recognition of our Armed Forces

9pm: Fireworks at Riverbend Park

Tuesday, July 4th

11am: Hot Dogs, Chili Dogs, Raffle & Cake Walk at the VFW Post 1309

Round Top, Texas

Snapshot: the parade of parades, BBQ, Contests, antique tractors, live music, and more...

Tuesday, July 4th

10am: 173rd July 4th Festivities begin!

10:30am : It's parade time! Be there to witness one of the best small-town parades in the area…

pack up a chair, some snacks and your favorite drinks then join in on the fun!

11:00am and on …BBQ & fun at the Rifle Hall

A Distinguished Inn of North America…

Sat, 31 Dec 2022 17:37:55 GMT

A Distinguished Inn of North America…who us?!?

Somewhere between laughing & crying (as pictured here), we are SSSOOOOOO excited to share The Katy House has been inducted as a member of Select Registry joining a list of over 250 elite properties across the US .

We received a distinguished seal of approval by passing the industry’s leading inspection program - covering everything from cleanliness to hospitality - to ensure guests receive the comfort and professionalism deserved from a trusted brand. Select Registry properties are more than just places to sleep, they are a collection of quality-approved, independent properties.

"We are thrilled to welcome such a diverse group of members into our curated collection," said Mark Reichle, CEO of Select Registry . "From former churches to private mansions and luxury cabins, there is a wide range of history and accommodation types that our new members represent. The one thing that they all have in common is their dedication to quality. From the moment a guest walks in the door, they will discover the difference staying at a Select Registry property makes."

For 2022, 23 properties were inducted and @thekatyhouse was one of them…insert tears…a lot of tears.

#smithvilletx #smallbusiness #bedandbreakfast #travel #distinguished #elite #pinchme #whatishappening #getaway #smalltownTexas #hopefloats #supportlocal #besttown #EVER #selectregistry

And the award goes to...

Wed, 10 Aug 2022 23:46:27 GMT

The Katy House Bed & Breakfast was awarded 2022 Best...

Last week the Texas Bed & Breakfast Association (TBBA) awarded The Katy House...

2022 Winner for Best Breakfast

Receiving the Best Breakfast Award from a statewide organization - across all TBBA properties - is more than I could have ever dreamed.

Our Breakfast & My Heart

As we strive to create an unforgettable guest experience for those who walk through our doors, receiving the Best Breakfast Award from TBBA caused me to replay every win, mistake & redo we've experienced in this kitchen. Ha, it's funny how that happens!

We receive acknowledgment for something incredible, then my mind wanders through every moment that should exclude us from receiving such accolades. I imagine I'm not the only one that can travel down that rabbit hole, so here's a glimpse into mine...There is no perfection here. Our butter isn't molded in delicate shapes. We don't have elaborate place settings. Our fruit isn't cut into boutique arrangements...and the list goes on. (disclaimer: I love all of the touches above, but it's just not what we do here...at least, not today)

From the moment I heard the words "the award goes to The Katy House Bed & Breakfast" to penning this letter, here's what my mind-mapping concluded: we prepare and serve the foods we love most. It's pretty simple actually. Our hearts are in every place setting touched, every blueberry placed in my dad's pancake recipe, every egg whipped, and every pinch of seasoning sprinkled on Joe's maple-sausage gravy. Every detail - for every guest - has the signature of our hearts on it.

So today, more than anything, the Best Breakfast Award is a reflection of the posture of our hearts, rather than perfection. It's through a genuine gift of service and loving people that we welcome you and share our family-style, southern breakfast. It's my hope that when you gather around our table your stomach is satisfied, and your heart is happy. We are genuinely honored to have received this award and are equally excited to share the news with you!

Thank you for being part of The Katy House community. Soon we'll be walking into our 29th Year of service, and it's because of our guests continued support that The Katy House is still serving guests to this day. We're just so humbled.

~ Tiffany

Walking Tour of Downtown Smithville

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 21:22:11 GMT

If these walls could talk...

Smithville's Historic Downtown Walking Tour

Originally Pu blished on ExploreBastropCounty.org

Edits: current business additions (in italics), current businesses (in color)

The village of “Old Smithville” was laid out on 640 acres of land granted to Thomas J. Gazley and Lewis Lomas. The town was located along the Colorado River in the northeast section of present Smithville. There were mercantile stores, dry good shops, and a Masonic lodge. In 1876, the first post office was established with John Pride Jones as postmaster. The Taylor, Bastrop & Houston Railroad, later a part of the Missouri, Kansas & Texas system, arrived in 1887, and the town relocated along the tracks. The legend is that a coin was tossed to decide if the name would be changed to Burlesonville for Murray Burleson, who gave land for the railroad depot. The coin toss resulted in “Smithville” being retained as the name, apparently in honor of pioneer settler William Smith. The town was incorporated in 1895 and T. C. Collins served as the first mayor.

History is an elevated art form in Smithville. Public art around town also puts history into context. The swallowtail sculpture at the Gazebo Park is a memorial of a tragic train explosion in 1908. A bust of one of the town’s founders, Dr. Thomas J. Gazley, is on display at Independence Park. Gazley helped to write the Texas Declaration of Independence and the Texas Constitution. During the Texas War for Independence, he fought as a citizen soldier-surgeon in the battles of Gonzales, Concepcion Mission, and San Jacinto. William Smith’s family arrived several years after Dr. Gazley. They owned a store and were early influences on the area.

Local businessman Murray Burleson learned of the approach of the Taylor, Bastrop, and Houston railroad, and worked with several partners to purchase land tracts in the Gazley and Loomis Surveys. A new town located adjacent to the railroad tracks was thereby platted and those seventeen families moved their homesteads from the Colorado River site to the railroad location about two miles west. By negotiation and a gift of land, Burleson persuaded the railroad to erect a Terminus (a depot facility) at the new town site, and the TB&H steamed through in 1887. Almost overnight, the town flourished with new railroad workers, followed by commerce and the service industries needed to support the growing population. Smithville becoming the largest city in Bastrop County for nearly 50 years.

TOUR MAP ( click to download )
Railroad Museum & Park, 1st Street & Main Street – Built 1887

Begin your tour at the Railroad Museum & Park, which currently serves as the Smithville Chamber of Commerce. The first railroad depot was built in Smithville in 1887, burning a few years later. In 1893, the MKT completed its tracks linking Houston with Smithville. The second depot was built in 1895 at the Y in the tracks further west. The large railroad YMCA building was from 1899 to 1926. The Smithville Railroad Park is on land donated by the railroad and contains the Chamber of Commerce building and Railroad Museum. A small depot moved to the park from nearby West Point. The cupola on the gazebo, which is on the site of 1909 depot, came from Smithville’s 1916 City Hall.

2. Bell's Barber Shop, 106-108 Main Street – Circa 1900

Circa 1900. In 1905, Bell’s Barber Shop was known for its opulence. The other half of the building was a restaurant and later the Cue Club beer parlor.

3. Polansky Bros. Meat Market, 110 Main Street – Built 1895

This building was constructed in 1895. By 1909, Edward and Marie Polansky had a bakery here, and their sons operated Polansky Bros. Meat Market & BBQ. By 1929 “Grocery” had been added to the name. After 1946, the building housed either a grocery and/or BBQ establishment owned by Mikesa or Charlie Ebner’s family until it closed in 2003. It is currently a local community theater, Playhouse Smithville.

4. Hansen's Bakery, 112 Main Street – Built 1895

Buildings 112 and 114 are identical with lapped brick facades. Built in 1895 as a grocery store, by 1909 this was a restaurant. The post office was here in 1911, going through four postmasters until 1920, and once having been robbed. Other businesses in the divided building have included a bakery, barber shop, watch repair, septic service, needle craft shop, religious bookstore, and two antique shops. It is once again a bakery. Currently, Olde World Bakery serves up the finest scratch breakfast & lunch.

5. Smithville Cigar Store, 114 Main Street – Circa 1895

The second of two identical buildings was the Smithville Cigar Store in 1895. From 1910 to 1925, the building housed a saloon, a shoe shop, a dry goods store and the shop of Jeweler A.C. Wrede and official railroad watch inspector. In 1925, the building was divided for a barber shop, a cleaning and pressing establishment, a veterinary clinic, a beer joint, and then became the Liberty Cafe. Currently, it is boutique shopping haven called, Golden Girls Boutique.

6. McCaskill Building, 116 Main Street – Built 1897

Built in 1897 by K.H. McCaskill, a local blacksmith, several grocery and general stores have occupied the first floor with its unusual recessed entry. The second floor was used by the Smithville times (1897-1905) and as lodge rooms for the Masons and the Oddfellows & Rebekash (1897-1985). Currently, 166 Main is The Front Room Wine bar known as the local's favorite for happy hour, late nights and tapas.

7. McCaskill Building, 104-106 E. 2nd Street – Built 1895

K.H. McCaskill also built this small building in 1895 with used brick from an earlier building in town. Thus, the materials in this building are thought to be the oldest in the commercial historic district. It housed borders until 1905 when Marie Polansky opened a small bakery and grocery store downstairs. The first floor was divided in 1934 for small businesses such as the City Shoe Shop, located here until 1970.

8. Janek Motor Co., 108-110 E. 2nd Stree t – Built 1903

This large, triple-bay building with a checkered brick facade was built in 1903. large businesses which operated here include a harness shop, the farm implement shop of Smithville Furniture Co., the Janek Motor Co., Smithville Cleaners and Laundry, the Smithville Produce Co., a 7-Up distributorship, and a bakery which was closed for a week during World War II due to a sugar shortage. This was the “Temptation Nation Employment Agency” in the 1997 movie, Hope Floats. Currently, it's the Smithville General Store where gourmet coffee & treats meet unique gifts and specialty home goods .

9. Pines Hotel & Cafe, 113-117 E. 2nd Street – Built 1910

This large 1910 hotel building was built by the Hill family to accommodate railroad workers and traveling salesmen. It included a 16-car garage on the first floor. On the west side of the building, in the single-story cafe, Dan Rather spoke to the Lions Club in 1967, before the hotel closed in 1968. The cafe became “Honey’s Diner” in the movie, Hope Floats. Currently, it's home to Smithville's finest Neopolitan-style, wood-fired pizza, craft cocktails and serene outdoor patio.

10. Yerger Hill & Son, 200-202 Main Street – Built 1898

This 1898 building, with two storefronts, was the home of the Hill family’s large hardware and eventually dry goods business that started at Alum Creek in 1875 under the name of Yerger, Hill & Son. The Bank of Smithville started here in 1895 before becoming First State Bank. The bank was moved across the street when the Hills opened their dry goods store in the space. In 1913 Yerger Hill had his exterior storefronts remodeled with black “mirror” tiles, plate glass windows and tiled entries showing the name of the business. The interiors still have their pressed metal ceiling and skylights. In 1997, the corner building was the photo shop in Hope Floats. C urrently, 200 Main houses Smithville General Store Home for the areas best finds in fine furnishings and antiques.

11. Dr. Hoch's Clinic, 204-206 Main Street – Circa 1900

This building was also built by the Hill family about 1900. A grocery store and restaurant occupied the two storefronts until 1944 when Dr. Hoch opened a clinic at 204 main. Dr. Thomas took over the clinic in 1952 and called it the Smithville Hospital. Law offices of Robert Perman and Yerger Hill were later housed at 204 Main, and several pharmacies were at 206 Main from 1934 to 1991.

12. Chancellor's Dry Goods, 216 Main Street – Built 1963

Built in 1963 by J.H. Chancellor, the building housed his dry goods business until 1957. Buster Brown, promoting the children’s shoes of a St. Louis company, visited the shoe department in 1915. The store features an elegant staircase leading to the mezzanine. The store original boasted detailed brick and iron work. Currently is The Carriage Shop known as a marketplace for eclectic finds.

13. Hill Building, 218 Main Street – Circa 1895

This building was constructed about 1895 by prolific local builders, Turner & Son. It housed the Rabb & McCollum furniture store and undertaking parlor until 1907, followed by the J.M. Moffitt’s variety store. Beginning in 1930, a series of drug stores, City drug Co., Mize Drug Store, and Crow Pharmacy were here. The upper floor provided office space for attorneys, dentists and physicians who dropped prescriptions down to the druggist through a hole in the floor. Currently is Mosaic Art & Home known for the eclectic furniture of David Marsh, as well as the paintings, prints, pottery, and dolls of local artists

14. Texas Theater, 300 Main Street – Built 1904

One of the two three-story brick buildings, this one was constructed in 1907 for the furniture store of Rabb & McCollum, on the first floor, and their undertaking business on the second floor. For years, an unclaimed embalmed body was kept in a coffin on display in the upstairs funeral parlor. Local boys would use “the mummy” to scare newcomers. A hardware store and meat market have also been located on the lower floor. In 1930, the Texas Theater opened, and a movie house survived here until 1970. the rear of the building facing Third Street (now Loop 230) was office space from 1910 until 1962.

15. Masonic Temple – Built 1903

Houston architect George E. Dickey designed this three-story all-brick building for the J. Nixon Masonic Lodge. Completed in 1903, the structure was once the tallest building in Bastrop County. The second floor rooms were offices, and the first floor was occupied by John Haynie’s grocery store (1905-1930), a furniture store, an auto supply, and fashion clothing designer Patricia Wolf. The second and third floors are now used as loft apartments, a popular new trend on Smithville’s Main Street. The first floor is home to Fat Cat Lounge where fine wine, homestyle food and weekend live music can be found.

16. Dickson building, 219 Main Street – Built 1896

This building was designed by George P. Cook and built by J.B. Garrett in 1896 for H.J. Dickson. A local radio station transmitted from the second floor in the 1930s, and a number of drug stores have been here, including Trousdale’s and Smith’s. The north side of the building has a mural of a locomotive, one of several fine murals in the Smithville downtown area. Lyndon Johnson was once visiting Smithville when he complained of stomach pains. The soda jerk at Trousdale’s Drug Store gave him a bottle of “Pluto” water, an antacid; however, Mr. Johnson was later taken to Austin for an appendectomy.

17. Gindler's Department Store, 213-215 Main Street – Built 1895

Three small buildings make up what appear to be one large building. Buildings 213 and 215 Main are two-story buildings constructed in 1895. A dry goods store, a furniture company and the Green Lantern Dance Hall were here prior to 1932 when the United Gas Company took over the buildings and the single-story building at 215 Main. Gindler’s Department Store was located at this address for 25 years. Currently 213 Main Street is home to Texas Trails Antique & Marketplace known for its vintage, antique and retro finds.

18. Powell Buildings, 207-209 Main Street – Circa 1895

These two buildings were constructed about 1895 and were often used for one business. The Falkenberg Drug Store was located here from 1918 until the 1950s. C&C Electric and the Sears Catalog store occupied the building until 1980, when Western Auto moved here. The upper stories still have the original brick detail. Currently home to It's a Good Thing who specializes in upcycling and repurposing items to give them a second (or third) chance in this modern world..

19. Ragsdale's, 205 Main Street – Built 1895

Built in 1895, this building housed the tailor shop and clothing store of J.B. Johnson from 1898 to 1919. the building was then purchased by Charles Ragsdale for his jewelry business, which was started in the Powell Building in 1913. He was the offical watch inspector for the MKT Railroad. The second floor was used by the Independent Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF) in 1895. Ragsdale’s daughter operated the business until it closed in 1996, and, until then, Ragsdale’s was Smithville’s oldest retail business. Currently home to Meanwhile at Silky's known for its celebration of art, music and community.

20. First State Bank, 201 Main Street – Built 1902

The original red brick building was built in 1902 for First State Bank which had been organized across the street in 1895. Doctor’s offices were located on the second floor, along with an operating room. In 1950 the bank took over a single story building at 203 Main, which had housed the Trousdale & Son Drug Store.

21. Marhill's, 111-117 West 2nd Street – Built after 1900

Five one-story brick buildings, typical of business blocks in Smithville, were built after 1900 just off Main Street. Various businesses have been here including a bank, grocery stores, dry good stores, a bakery, an undertaking parlor and one of the early post offices. Now known as home to Your Mom's Scratch Kitchen where their specialty comfort food warms hearts and fills bellies.

22. Eagleston's Saloon, 119 Main Street – Built 1888

This building was constructed in 1888 for Sass Grocery. By 1890, it was Edward H. Eagleston, who hd widespread land and business interests. With the advent of prohibition, the building again became a grocery, and eventually Shirocky’s Grocery in 1934. Currently home to Bella's Cottage Antiques the sister store to Texas Trails Antique & Marketplace just down the street. .

23. City Drug Store, 117 Main Street – Built 1889

Constructed in 1889 as a meat market, by 1909 a grocery had been added to this building. After 1915, the Falkenburg Drug Store moved here, followed by the City Drug Store until 1932. Various businesses filled the space until 1995 when the building became a restaurant, Back Door Cafe known for their American, Southern style cuisine .

24. Bollier's, 115 Main Street – Built before 1891

Built prior to 1891, this 1-1/2 story brick building with a mezzanine was constructed as the Lone Star Saloon. The medallion is a representation of the offical portrait of thomas Jefferson Gazley, the first known settler in the community. Several businesses, including the Bank of Smithville and a drug store were here before Dessie Bollier had her dry goods and clothing store at this location for 30 years.

25. City Grocery, 113 Main Street – Circa 1905

The grocery store buildings at 113 and 111 main Street are nearly identical, and probably built by the same contractor. Built about 1905, City Grocery was located here until the 1970s. Currently home to Smooth Moves Performing Arts Studio where jazz, ballet, tap, lyrical, contemporary, pointe, and hip-hop classes are offered.

26. Bock's Grocery, 111 Main Street - Built 1909

Built in 1909 for a meat market, L.C. Bock bought the market in the 1930s to open a Red & White store, which closed in 1964.

25 Years & 3 Generations

Fri, 03 Dec 2021 13:16:38 GMT

25 Years and3 Generations

A premier small-town escape where ‘getaway’ feels more like coming home, The Katy House Bed & Breakfast is tucked away in the heart of downtown Smithville.

Mayberry, scenes from It’s a Wonderful Life or any Hallmark movie are descriptions I often hear from guests passing through town. The walkable streets, historical murals, colorful mosaics, charming storefronts, and hundred-year-old residences all feel as picturesque as a movie set. The real beauty of Smithville is discovered through its small-town charm, and undeniable feel that you have stepped back in time 30 years. Things seem simpler here. The intimate and caring community brings me back to my childhood, where time passed slower, and relationships were always the priority.

Most people are surprised to learn The Katy House Bed & Breakfast has been serving the Smithville community for 27 years. The property’s spacious layout includes a total of six guest rooms, all with private baths, including a few cottages just steps away from the back porch. All rooms are nestled around our serene outdoor space where relaxing with the perfect cup of hot coffee or a chilled glass of wine feel like perfection. Private balcony, kitchen, inside the historic main house or cozy private cottage, ground floor or second story, king or queen bed, clawfoot tub or step-in shower are all options guests can consider when selecting the perfect room for their stay at The Katy House. Daily we serve a hot, home-cooked breakfast by individually delivering our best comfort foods to each guest room or outside in the courtyard. We can sleep 14 comfortably or up to 17 (with a little squeezing in).

Every stay at The Katy House means something different for every guest. That’s the beauty of this home and this town, there’s a place for you here. Singles. Couples. It’s complicated. Escape the city. Find peace and quiet. Rest. Reconnect. Reconcile. Special event. Girls trip. Celebrate. Mom & Daughter getaway. Father & Son adventure. Antiquing. Mountain biking. Scouting trails & the river. Live music. Incredible food. Outstanding community. If you’re moving too fast, then you’ll miss the best parts of this sweet town, so I always recommend taking in the local sites by long walks or casual bike rides. I’m convinced there’s no better place in Texas than Smithville, and we just happen to have a front-row seat only one block from Main Street.

Since 1909, 201 Ramona (now known as The Katy House) has been a Texas historic landmark in downtown Smithville where each owner’s heart for service has been woven throughout its century-long history. Built by J.H. Chancellor, owner of the local mercantile store, Mr. Chancellor is remembered for his devotion to good service and as a generous businessman who frequently (and anonymously) gave to those in need. By 1941, 201 Ramona was purchased by Division Surgeon for the MKT Railroad, Dr. Stephens, where the home served as both his residence and doctor’s office. The downstairs stunning longleaf pine pocket doors separated the waiting area and patient rooms while the 2nd floor was his private living quarters. Babies were born, and the sick were cared for here. Former patients of Dr. Stephen's are known to stop by from time to time, just to say hello. It’s always a joy to hear the stories about what took place within these walls. In 1980, the home was even occupied by The Bastrop County Women’s Shelter as an office and clothing warehouse.

Beginning in 1994, founders of The Katy House Bed & Breakfast, Bruce & Sallie Blalock were visionaries for guest service. They poured twenty years of themselves into establishing this one-of-a-kind B&B as a memorable getaway. Second-generation owners, Linda & Stu Leibowitz, followed in the Blalock’s footsteps investing their heart and soul in all the fine home details and tailored care for each guest. For five years, Linda’s effortless eye for classic design elevated the property with her soothing color palettes and antique furniture selections. From the kitchen, guest rooms, cottages, and living spaces, each space has been hand touched by Linda’s design while Stu’s easy-going charm and talent graced the kitchen. The legacies each have left are big shoes to fill, but shoes I’ve only been able to step into because of their incredible mentorship. I truly believe I would not be where I am without their support and belief in my place here.

As the new owner of this iconic residence, my only goal now is to honor the mission of authentically providing a comfortable place for rest, reprieve, and reconnecting to others. The truth is The Katy House is my dream career. Smithville is my dream community. Neither were in my ‘planned’ life trajectory, but it's funny how curveballs can end up being the best ones for you. Mountains were moved for this opportunity to be possible, so daily, I’m humbled to have been given a chance to be part of this home's history. I’m the proud wife to the best man I’ve ever met, Joe. Mom to two young ladies. Cancer survivor. Spartan Race Finisher. Walk by faith, believer. Lover of sweet tea & wine. More than anything, though, I’m passionate about caring for others.

Tens of thousands of guests have been served over the years in this sweet home. It’s truly the perfect Texas hideaway without sacrificing a day in the car or a trip to the airport. We invite you to explore and experience the charm of small-town life. Smithville, The Katy House, and my family would love the opportunity to welcome you.

~Tiffany

History of 201 Ramona

Sun, 01 Dec 2019 16:45:30 GMT

History of 201 Ramona

The Area

In the 1880s, Jay Gould, the Great Robber Baron, was firmly in control of a number of railroads. Two of those, the Missouri Kansas &Texas and the International & Great Northern were both building North-to-South in Texas. The MK&T was the first railroad to build into Texas from the north. At that time, Gould was looking for access to the Rio Grande Valley to facilitate trade with Mexico. He also wanted access to Houston and the Port of Galveston for control of the lucrative import-export market. The point on the map that gave the most favorable junction for North-South and East-West traffic was the river plain which we now know as Smithville.

On July 4, 1887, the first train of the Bastrop and Taylor (a few months later, October 27, 1887 this line became the the Taylor, Bastrop &Houston, actually the construction subsidiary of the Missouri Kansas &Texas; the Katy) crossed a wooden bridge over Gazley Creek into the location of present-day Smithville The Smithville area represented great potential to the railroad; an expansive area with gentle grades and mild curvature along the Colorado River that was almost equidistant from Waco, San Antonio and Houston. From this location traffic could be controlled on the line, crews housed and shops centrally located for maintenance of the locomotives and cars.

The original town location was a mile or so North and East. It consisted of a few log cabins and two or three businesses. Mail delivery was unpredictable and infrequent, having to be ferried over from Alum Creek. In 1886 Murray Burleson bought land in the area that is now Smithville. The two parcels of land that became the core of the city’s land are 400 acres from the Thomas J. Gazley grant (from 1830) and 875 acres from Lewis Lomas. With this property and the help of partners A. J. Hooper and Joseph D. Sayers (who later became governor of Texas) the Smithville Townsite Company was formed. An agreement between the railroad and the townsite company allowed land for the railroad facilities in return for establishment of a major terminal. This cemented a relationship between the railroad and the city. Smithville came to life. Only one business in the original town moved its building to the new Smithville Townsite Company location. Until that time agriculture was virtually the only industry in the area. The arrival of the railroad and its division headquarters in 1894 not only brought a large number of railroad-related jobs but also developed the town as the gathering and shipping point for the agricultural products. New markets were developed. It attracted the supporting network and financial institutions required for commerce on a larger scale, and businesses from other areas relocated in Smithville to take advantage of the business climate. “Smithville, the infant of yesterday, the ambitious youth to-day, and giant to-morrow!” Smithville Times, Vol 2, #48, Christmas edition, 1895

The home at 201 Ramona (Lot 8, block 31) is an integral part of the heritage of Smithville and is fondly remembered by area residents for a number of reasons. The original railroad depot was two blocks west of the end-of-Main depot location until 1906 when a fire destroyed the building. Across the street from the original depot was the largest hotel in town, and two others were all within a block of the house at 201 Ramona. So the house location was even more in the mainstream when built than in later years when the new depot was built at the end of Main street. The builder, and original occupant of the home, J. H. Chancellor had a profound influence on Smithville in its early development through his real estate and home construction activities and as the owner of a prominent dry goods store. J. D. Stephens, M. D. purchased the home following the death of Mr. Chancellor and utilized the home as the location for the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad clinic. In addition to the railroad employees, Dr. Stephens practice included that of many residents of the area. It is indeed a property in which the business and the physical well-being of the citizens of Smithville was experienced and is very significant in the history of the City. Even without the social role, the overall design and high degree of detailing make the property distinctive. It was an extremely modern structure with classic proportions when built. It remains so to this day.

The following is the chronological listing of the property ownership and the development of the building as we know it today, taken from the records of the Bastrop County Courthouse.

The transactions

July 21, 1887 (V 238, p 104), the Smithville Townsite Company sold Lot 8, block 31 to B. B. Gentry.

September 3, 1895 (V 24, p 91), sold to J. H. Chancellor for $1,700.

December 29, 1938, deeded to Ethel Chancellor by Probate Court.

August 22, 1941 (V 105, p 539), sold to J. D. Stephens, M. D. for $5,400, (partially furnished).

January 25, 1972 (V 205, p 547-549), sold to Alvis Gray Hoskins.

November 23, 1972 (V 210, p 715), sold to Billie Hickman.

November 22, 1975 (V 238, p 104), sold to Glen Richard Kent.

February 5, 1977 (V 238, p 104), sold to Linda Ewing Spencer, later married Craig Behn.

March 20, 1985 (V 365, p 36), sold to Bobby and Wanda Dalby.

March 9, 1994, sold to Bruce and Sallie Skelley Blalock.

October 20, 2014, sold to Stu and Linda Leibowitz.

December 30, 2019, sold to Joe and Tiffany Prior.

The tax information

1894 (tax rolls, p 41), property valued at $500.

1895 (tax rolls, p 46), property valued at $1,000.

1899 through 1907 (County Abstract), property valued at $750.

1908, 1909, 1910 (tax rolls, no page #s), property valued at $1,650.

As there was no mechanic’s lien on the home listed in the county clerk’s records, it is impossible to put exact dates on construction or identify the architect. It is, however, possible to assemble information so that approximate dates can be developed.

V. S. Rabb, a builder who owned a lumber yard across Second Street from the house, is identified on many mechanic’s liens as a regularly-contracted home builder employed by Mr. Chancellor. The proximity of his company and the pattern of cooperation suggest that Mr. Rabb was the builder. Unfortunately the architect’s name and the actual cost and details of the construction are lost.

The ability to date the construction of the house was made possible by combining Sanborn Map Company block-by-block city maps published primarily for insurance company use, county tax rolls and physical evidence. The Sanborn maps of the town published in September 1900, January 1905 and September 1909 delineate four structures on the 201 Ramona lot. They clearly show a main house of a different plan, a smaller house in the garage apartment location, a stable on the Northwest corner of the lot with a small building immediately East. All four buildings were single story and frame construction. The October 1915 Sanborn map shows the plan of the house now standing. The only other building on the lot was the two-story building located where the stable had been. My estimation of the construction date is 1909. This is based upon the published Sanborn Map and the tax valuation of 1912. The first 46 pages of the county tax rolls for 1911 are missing. The 1909 date is substantiated by four date nails cast into the concrete sidewalk adjacent to the basement stairs, which were installed during construction. All four nails are marked 09. At least two of those nails were deeply imbedded with no other apparent purpose than period marking.

The house

There are a number of distinctive architectural features that highlight the property. It was designed in the Classic Revival manner as a Mediterranean villa. The exterior is buff-colored brick with a very fine mortar joint (1/4” maximum). Lintels, sills and steps are limestone, the nearest quarry of which is in Austin. The front (East) has two fluted columns with Scamozzi Ionic capitals that rise to the top of the second-story balcony. A bay-windowed portico is accented with a Mediterranean arch. The roof overhang is supported by ornate exterior rafters. Dormer windows look to all directions from the roof. All floors are in long-leaf pine, 2-1/4” wide downstairs, 4” wide upstairs. in the living area downstairs is a parlor, (with its own colored ceramic tile fireplace), dining room, kitchen, pantry and entry hall. The main rooms are all separated by double pocket doors, also constructed of long-leaf pine. Beveled and leaded glass windows allow North light into the parlor and grace the transom area above the front door and the half bath under the stairway. The stair has a rise-to-run ratio of 7 to 11. The hardwood banister is asymmetrical to conform to thumb on one side, fingers on the other. Throughout the house the ceilings are 10’ 6” with tall (7’) windows. Trim throughout is crown molding of egg-and-dart pattern, which is even cast in ceramic tile in the Northwest bathroom.

Upstairs the large master bedroom connects to a sitting room, with windows on the south and east sides. A private balcony is accessed through curtained French doors. The original screen on the front porch balcony was removed. Tile floor in the master bath is graced by chest-high marble walls. All bathrooms have their original claw-foot tubs. Throughout the history of the house no walls have been moved; no windows have been closed or relocated. The only change from the original floor plan was the conversion of the second floor rear porch balcony into a bathroom (between 1972 and 1977). The two West-side bedrooms originally shared a bath. When built, the house had a central heating system supplied by a convection air furnace fueled by coal and located in the basement. This furnace required its own chimney which was shared by the kitchen stove. All original ductwork and room registers are still in place. In 1941 the furnace was replaced by a natural gas heater, the size of which required a large diameter pipeline and meter, all of which were removed. A two-story wooden building at the Northwest corner of the lot was constructed concurrently with the house. Between 1915 and 1925 a two-story garage with apartment was built using identical brick as the home.

The people

J. H. Chancellor (1876-1938) was a very influential man in the early days of Smithville history. The fact that there is no mechanic’s lien on the property can easily be explained by the fact that Mr. Chancellor was a builder-developer in the city and had direct involvement in no less than 71 parcels of land in Smithville, beginning September 25, 1894 and extending through 1919. The number of construction crews available to handle that volume over the years suggests that the house was built with materials and labor paid for in cash at the time of construction. Tax information confirms that the Chancellors lived in the original house from the purchase date (1895) through the construction of the present home until Mr. Chancellor died in 1938. Ethel Chancellor moved to California after her husband’s death to live with relatives. She never returned to Smithville. Unfortunately, they had no children and little information is available on their family or forbears. One downtown building still bears the J. H. Chancellor name. It was operated as a mercantile store and enjoyed the reputation of the best in the city. The store was noted for its fine merchandise, knowledgeable employees and Mr. Chancellor’s devotion to good service. On almost any occasion, the clerks would remember the clothing size of their customers, as well as their favorite styles. Mr. Chancellor is remembered as a generous businessman who frequently (and anonymously) contributed to the less fortunate, especially the children. Donations included materials and labor for railroad workers’ safety programs in the Smithville shops.

In 1937 the MKT Railroad hired J. D. Stephens to be the Division Surgeon. Dr. Stephens (1890-1972) moved from Weslaco (in the Rio Grande valley) to Smithville to accept the position. His compensation was $150.00 per month. All railroad timetables subsequent to that date until 1968 list the doctor as the Smithville District Surgeon and all employees were required to have regular examinations by the doctor. Dr. Stephens was able to have a private practice in addition to his railroad assignment, and townspeople were also patients. In 1941 he purchased the house at 201 Ramona and established a clinic on the ground floor. A stair was built from the stairwell landing into the kitchen so that family members could move about the house without disturbing doctor or patients. The parlor became the examining room, the entry hall was the waiting room and the half bath under the stair functioned as the laboratory. The Northwest bedroom became the family room and many nights experienced local teenagers dancing on the hardwood to the tunes of a wind-up Victrola. Mrs. Stephens (Pete, 1900-1959) was an avid fisherwoman and had a minnow tank built in the back yard for her use. This tank remains there today. When arriving home late the two Stephens boys would climb the column onto the second floor back porch balcony to gain entrance when the house was locked. Jerry Stephens worked for the Katy during 1944 and 1945 as a call boy, though legally he was under the age limit.(8)

After the Stephens’ sale of the house deferred maintenance allowed the house to slowly deteriorate. In 1980 it was used as a clothing warehouse and office for the Bastrop County Women’s Shelter. Their records show that no one used it as living quarters.

Linda Ewing Spencer (Quitta) started restoration by replacing the original kitchen in the early 1980s. The glass etching in the kitchen was done by Jeri Winslett. Bobby and Wanda Dalby lived in Austin when they purchased the home. They made a commitment to return the house to its former appearance and began their restoration in November 1990. All original woodwork was retained and refurbished. The floors were sanded and sealed with polyurethane. The original wallpaper and cheesecloth backing was removed and sub-walls either painted or sheet-rocked. The kitchen was updated with new ceiling, wallboard, cabinets and drawers. The door from the kitchen into the laboratory and the stair into the kitchen were removed to return to the original configuration and maximize space. All rooms were insulated and individual window air-conditioning units were installed.

The bed & breakfast

Bruce and Sallie Blalock began where the Dalbys stopped. A central air-conditioning system was installed under the home, utilizing some of the original return-air ducting. No ducting has been added to the living space of the original home interior. The second floor back porch balcony was converted into a full bath with a claw-foot tub from the Pines Hotel (a local property which had been family-owned since the early part of the twentieth century). One of our guests added the bluebonnet scene to the tub.

Conductor's Quarters. The garage apartment floor was sanded and sealed with polyurethane. Plumbing and wiring was updated, sheet rock installed and a complete new paint scheme applied. This is the perfect room for families with the queen-size bed, sofa couch with fold-out full size bed and a twin bed in the kitchen area with two window units. The name comes from that fact that a railroad conductor lived there for years.

Katy Tower. The first thing we did was build a deck in front and a gentle stairway. Then the wooden outbuilding received a complete overhaul of all plumbing and wiring and was air-conditioned with window unit. The original bath room wall has been removed and a large, Jacuzzi-type tub entertains guests in 2006. The name relates to the fact that the building appears as a railroad interlocking tower. It is now our most popular room.

The rooms inside the house are named for Katy passenger trains, the Bluebonnet, Katy Limited and of course the Texas Special. Breakfast is served on replica china of the Bluebonnet, designed and used by the Katy Railroad in its finest traditions. The pattern has a unique and almost universal appeal: Texas, railroad, Katy and pretty. It was produced by Buffalo China, the original producer, from our artwork.

Third floor. On February 1, 1999 we began converting the attic space into a master bedroom suite. First order of business was removal of the semi-circular cedar closet over the second floor entry hall. With that came the ability to create a stairway to the attic space that continued from the stairwell landing on the second floor. After completion the pull-down stair in the Bluebonnet bathroom was removed and the hole covered with the appropriate bead-board ceiling material. The second floor ceiling joists (third floor joists) were 2 X 8 material. An engineering study showed that the material was good but additional material would improve the space, especially the sound proofing. After removing all insulation and existing wiring we doubled the floor joists with lap joints and tripled them in the bathroom and library (high load) areas. Insulation was then replaced and all wiring moved to the perimeter. Flooring was installed using 1 1/8” tongue-and-groove plywood (approximately 95 pounds per sheet glued to each other and screwed in place with 3” galvanized deck screws. The floor was installed on the house centerline and completed before anything else. Next was raising the ceiling. Instead of the 7’ 6” height provided by the existing trusses, a nine-foot height was allowed by partial removal of each truss and creating a new truss with higher clearance. The pony walls contributed to the strength of the new trusses and allowed closets on each side. The original awning windows were replaced with casement windows of double pane windows and radiant glass on all sides except the north. All trim was created to match the existing style to fit with the original design. The stair risers and treads from the second floor to the third was made from harvested long-leaf pine of the approximate age of the house with the banister and all trim custom made to match the originals. Move-in was September 1, 2001.