Salado, Texas

 Salado, TX 

...was originally built for the bridge that crossed the Salado Creek. That might not sound like an important beginning to a town but that bridge was part of the famous Chisholm Trail (A route from Texas to Kansas city that hit the major trading posts along the way. Much like how we design our road systems today - we're simply connecting the dots!) Texans used the Chisholm trail to herd Longhorn cattle. This is my best shot of a longhorn to date:

Many of the towns like Salado were named for markers along the trail. Round Rock is another one and there is actually a round rock in the middle of a creek that was so distinctive, it made a great marking point for the trail.

 

Salado is now an artists colony with beautiful Victorian homes and the infamous Stagecoach Inn.

 This is one of the stagecoaches used during colonial times. They restored it and keep it in front of the complex which includes the famous outlaw cave, a restaurant, a saloon and entertainment club and there's even a bed and breakfast on the back side.

There are spots all over this region that mark historic points in US history. For instance this balcony is the spot where Sam Houston gave his famous speech urging Texas not to succeed from the union.

 This door marks the entrance to the "outlaw cave". Salado, TX was a famous stop on the Chisholm Trail. Gunmen running from the law often used this cave as their hideout. Supposedly, the James brothers were here.

I love when historical sites are preserved along with the famous names of the people who were there. I also love the fact that now this place has become a popular tourist destination and artist colony.

Apparently the two groups go together and it takes artists to appreciate and restore all there old buildings for future generations. It is important for me to point out all the good that artists do for a community whenever I can. It's certainly worth a blog spot!