Dinosaur Capitol of Texas

GLEN ROSE, TEXAS

In March of 1875 Somervell County was created by special act of the state legislature. The county was named for General Alexander Somervell, who had taken an active part in the Texas Revolution and later became a senator in the first Texas Congress. In April of 1875, Glen Rose was named the county seat. The town of Glen Rose was named by Mrs. T. C. Jordan in 1872. A small glen and the wild roses that grew near her home reminded her of her native Scotland. Previously the town had been called Barnard's Mill, named for Charles Barnard, the first settler in Somervell County. The native limestone flour and grist mill built by Barnard in 1860 still stands on the banks of the Paluxy River just west of the town square.

About a year after the organization of the county, Charles Barnard began building a courthouse on land he had homesteaded earlier. He had agreed to build the courthouse at his own expense in exchange for citizens buying lots that he owned around the town square. Due to financial reasons, Barnard was unable to finish the building and in 1882 the commissioner's court arranged to have the county's first courthouse completed. The building was destroyed by fire in the winter of 1893. Rebuilding began almost immediately and the present courthouse was completed that same year.

By the turn of the century, the town of Glen Rose was a well-known recreation spot. The natural beauty of the area and the sulfur water that flowed from wells, drew people to the sanitariums and the numerous parks in Glen Rose.

During the 1920's and 1930's, Prohibition outlawed the production and consumption of alcoholic beverages. With the many cedar trees and woods around the town, there were many prosperous moonshiners that could hide their stills, making Glen Rose the Whiskey Woods Capital of Texas. Some say that there are still some stills around, but we have not found them yet!

Today, Glen Rose has much more to offer the many visitors who come to the area each year. Check out our attractions and be amazed at all you can do in this wonderful town located at a picturesque spot on the Paluxy River, which flows into the Brazos River and brims with history all around you.

For the visitor who wishes to spend time in Glen Rose, the accommodations are suited to any taste and pocketbook. You can choose from camping, a modern fully-equipped motel, or several quaint Bed and Breakfast Inns. (Contact the Chamber of Commerce at 254-897-2286 and don't forget to get your Dinosaur Hunting License ! Oh, yeah did we forget to mention the dinosaurs?)

ATTRACTIONS IN GLEN ROSE:

ELIZABETH'S CANDLES is the local candle factory where you can watch the candlemakers hand pour their highly fragrance candles or browse through the gift shop. You can even bring your own containers in and they will fill them up for you priced by the ounce. They have over 90 fragrances and colors to choose from and will even ship gifts for you. Their mail order business has taken them International and you won't be disappointed with the wide range of quality gifts and hand-made candles. Located approximately 1.4 miles west via U.S. 67, FM 205 just before the Dinosaur Valley State Park. Call 1-800-235-2004 or visit us on the web at www2.itexas.net/~elizacan

DINOSAUR VALLEY STATE PARK is located on ancient sedimentary rock that has been said to have began about 110-115 million years ago as Cretaceous seas began to advance across central and north central Texas. Away from the shore, lush subtropical vegetation supported plant-eating dinosaurs, which, in turn, fell prey to the fierce carnivorous dinosaurs. The dinosaurs left deeply impressed tracks in the soft limey mud which can still can be seen in the park today. Among the many tracks found is a remarkable double set of tracks left by a giant sauropod being followed by a large carnivorous dinosaur. This fossilized section was collected and placed on exhibit at the American Museum of Natural History in New York. A cast of these prints is on display at the park. The park offers 1,204 acres for camping, hiking and picnicking. Located approximately five miles west via U.S. 67, FM 205. Admission. 254-897-4588.

SQUAW VALLEY GOLF COURSE is located on U.S. 67 and is rated among the top 10 public course in Texas. It has received a four star rating from Golf Digest and will challenge golfers of every skill. It is open 7 days a week. Banquet facilities, tournament packages, PGA instruction and a fully stocked golf shop are also featured. Watch for the opening of the second course in Y2000. We can't wait ! Call 800-831-8259 for more info.

If you are in town in June through October, don't miss THE PROMISE. This musical drama is a portrayal of the life of Jesus Christ. This performance held in the Texas Amphitheater, an impressive Greco-Roman structure which serves as the is the backdrop of this epic drama. After seeing the impressive setting, live animals, authentic costumes and talented actors, you will walk away moved. Come experience The Promise. Call 800-687-2661 for more info.

If you love Animals FOSSIL RIM is the wildest place to be. Drive through this 2,700 acre scenic wildlife park and experience this wild world of animals in their own natural setting. Over 60 species and some of the worlds most endangered animals, like white rhino, cheetah, and Grevy's zebra. Visit the nature trails, petting pasture, and call for special lodging and a "Behind the Scenes Tours". Call 254-897-2960.

BARNARD'S MILL AND ART MUSEUM built in the 1800's was the first permanent structure in Glen Rose. It hosts the collections of Jewell Miers Fiedler and Amy Miers Jackson, Robert Summers, Jack Bryant, R. Kliefielder and Morris Hery Hobbs. Call 254-897-2611.

ROUGH CREEK LODGE is a Texas-sized 11,000 acre lodge and conference center. The lodge offers tennis, exercise room, spa, a swimming pool, 80 ac. fishing lake with a catch and release program, and upland bird hunting. This is a place to come and relax and enjoy the outdoors in elegance. The restaurant offers unique dishes for your dining pleasure. Call 800-897-3675 for info.

OVER THE HILL ANTIQUES, located on Barnard Street down town Glen Rose offers reasonable prices and you can rest your feet in the comfortable snack area and enjoy a refreshing soft drink if you should tire of shopping. Find all those treasures that you have been looking for or what grandma used in her kitchen. You are sure to find something that you just can not live without. Call 254-897-9384.

COMANCHE PEAK POWER PLANT is an operating nuclear power plant (sorry, Homer Simpson doesn't work at the plant). Learn about the generation of electricity by taking one the their tours. Free admission. Call 254-897-5554.

SOMERVELL COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM offers history, fossils, relics and even an old moonshiners still. Seasonal hours. Call 254-897-3675. Visit OAKDALE PARK where you can hook up your RV, cook, enjoy a Bluegrass Festival, woodcarving show, or Just visit with old or a few new friends. They offer tent camping, cottages, group cabins, shelters, snack bar, playground, swimming, and much more. Call 254-897-2321.

SQUAW CREEK LAKE was built for cooling the Comanche Peak Nuclear Power > Plant. Its 3,228 acre lake is deep and very clear. This lake is noted for great scuba diving. This lake provides fishing for many types bass, walleye and native game fish. You can use the lake for boating, sailing, swimming, windsurfing, picnicking, and camping. Small fee for fishing and > hookups. Located on Hwy 144 north of Glen Rose. Call 817-573-7053.

The EXPO CENTER is located on HWY US 67 in Glen Rose. Rodeos, Exhibits, > Concerts, Horse Shows, Dog Shows, Crafts Shows. So if you need a place for your events, we have 7,000 square feet of climate-controlled space and 11,350 square feet of concourse area. The main arena boasts 5,470 seats for concerts, and an Equestrian Center outfitted with three arenas, over 500 horse stalls and covered walkways throughout the facility. Call for events or reservations at 254.897.4509.

SOMERVELL COUNTY HERITAGE CENTER a great place to look up your genealogy. Located on the downtown square. Call 254-897-9073.

AREA LODGING:

THE INN ON THE RIVER is near the downtown square and is located on the banks of the Paluxy River. This historic building was a part of a resort built in 1919 known as Dr. Snyder's Drugless Health Sanatorium. You can enjoy the elegant antique furnishings, savor a sumptuous four-course dinner ($30) which is available Friday and Saturday night, or just sit by the river and read a book in your quiet time. The inn has 19 rooms, including three suites from $115-$195 a night. Amenities include an outdoor pool, and two conference centers. The Inn is a non-smoking facility and is unable to accommodate children under 16 years of age and pets. Call 800-575-2101.

ROUGH CREEK LODGE is located on 11,000 expansive acres and is the perfect getaway for the sportsman, executive and those who just love to be pampered (Isn't that all of us?). They can accommodate groups from 16 to 100 and other business packages. Features include, fishing, hunting, heated pool, sauna, message and fitness center. Dining at Rough Creek is also a wonderful experience not to be missed. Call 800-864-4705.

HIDEAWAY LOG CABINS West of Glen Rose, features four secluded, cozy cabins (2 with fireplaces) on 155 acres. Pvt. Spas/pool/full kitchen/TV with VCR. Call 254-823-6606 or visit Hideaway Log Cabins on the web.

THE FOOTHILLS SAFARI CAMP Safari cabins with a style perfect for 2 guest with pvt. Bath, A/C. full breakfast, fresh linens, in a secluded Africa-like Fossil Rim setting three miles from Glen Rose. Call 254-897-2960

THE LODGE AT FOSSIL RIM is an elegant secluded country lodge just 3 miles west of Glen Rose. 5 spacious bedrooms, most with private baths, fireplaces and patios. Full breakfast and a wonderful setting. Call 254-897-2960

GLEN ROSE MOTOR INN offers easy access to all area attractions. Has 85 rooms, 11 day rate apartments, restaurant and pool. Call 254-897-2940.

GLEN HOTEL was built in 1928, 20 rooms, 1 block from historic courthouse square. 2 dbl beds/pvt baths. Day or weekly rates. Call 254-897-2420.

BED AND BREAKFAST ACCOMMODATIONS:

BARNARD STREET COTTAGES Cottage located one block from the square in historic Glen Rose Texas.

COTTAGE ON THE RIVER Call 888-346-8066

POPEJOY HAUS Cabin and B&B in the German style. German pastries, hot tub. No pets. No smoking. Call 254-897-3521.

THE LILLY HOUSE is a historical Victorian home overlooking Glen Rose. Gourmet breakfast, close to downtown. Call 800-884-1759.

THE WILD ROSE INN is a restored 1893 home, furnished with authentic antiques. Luxury suites, private entrances, TV, phone, gourmet breakfast. Children over 13 welcome. Call 254-897-4112.

YE OLE MAPLE INN has 2 bedrooms each w/ pvt baths.Southern style. Full Breakfast, special evening desserts. Call 254-897-3456 or on the web at Ye Ole Maple Inn.

DERRICK-HOFFMAN FARM Old-fashioned farmhouse, private luxury suite w/bath, fireplace, in host house. Fix your own Breakfast or join the host for breakfast. Children and pets welcome. Call 800-573-9953.

INDIAN MOUNTAIN RANCH is a two story rustic lodge. Full country breakfast, 3 private bedrooms and dormitory sleeping for groups. Children welcome. No pets. Call 254-796-4060.

BUSSEY'S SOMETHING SPECIAL 2 story country cottage, king/full beds, pvt baths, and full kitchen. Host NOT on premises. Call 254-897-4843.

PALUXY GLEN B&B Charming old Texas house w/ 2 bedrooms, one w/ queen, one w/ > twin. Nestled along Paluxy River. Children welcome. Hostess NOT on premises. Call 254-897-2994 or e-mail:mailto:sid@hcnews.com

HUMMINGBIRD LODGE located 5 miles west of Glen Rose, and definitely worth the drive. 140 acres, walking trails, stocked fishing pond and hot tub. Breakfast buffet. 6 rooms > with country ranch furnishings. Meeting facilities. Call 254-897-2787 or on the web at Hummingbird Lodge

THE WHITE GABLES INN A two story historic home, l blk from downtown square. 5 guest rooms, each with pvt baths and entrance. Country breakfast and evening dessert. No pets or smoking. Call 254-897-2149.

RIOCASA 1 room, with nice furnishings and bath. No host. Call 254-897-2575.

FINE LOCAL DINING:

Back at the Ranch - Group Cook-outs 254.897.9726

Hammond's BBQ - 254.897.9917

Pastafina Italian - 254.898-9117

Inn on the River - Full menu dining with reservations only 254.897.2929

The Ranch House - BBQ 254.897.3441

Chachi's Mexican Restaurant - Mexican 254.897.7504

Chilo's - Mexican 254.897.3023

Donna K's Catfish - Seafood, etc. 254.897.4305

Chicken Express - Chicken 254.897.2621

Circle H - Steaks, fish, pork 254.897.4198

Dairy Queen - Burgers and more 254.897.4416

Debbie's - Real Home Cooking 254.897.4399

Gabby's - Full Menu 254.897.9392

Mandi's - Fast Tacos, Burritos 254.897.9726

Medical Pharmacy - Lunch and soda shoppe 254.897.9917

M-K Corral - Full Menu 254.897.2761

Rio Grande Grill - BBQ 254.897.9359

Rough Creek - Full Menu - Reservation 254.918.2550

Simple Simon's - Pizza, salad's 254.898.0022

Sub Station - Sandwiches 254.897.3131

Subway - Sandwiches 254.897.3976

RV PARKS AND OTHER CAMPSITES:

CEDAR RIDGE PARK 2 cabins, 45 RV hookups. Call 254-897-3410.

GLEN LAKE METHODIST CAMP has 18 cabins, water park, dining hall. Call 254-897-2247

OAKDALE PARK has 23 cabins, RV hook ups, pool, and snack bar. Call 254-897-2321.

TRES RIOS RV PARK 39 Cabins, 8 meeting rooms Call 254-897-7396

DIRECTIONS TO GLEN ROSE:

From Dallas: Approximately 82 miles from central Dallas : estimated time: 2 hours, and 15 minutes. Take I35 south towards Waco and merge onto I-35S/US77 South. I-35 E S/US77 becomes I-35 S/US-67 South. Take the US 67 South exit, exit number 423A, towards Cleburne. Merge onto US-67/SR-144 Stay straight to go onto US-67, Turn left onto Barnard St. This will take you to the center of Glen Rose

From Houston: Approximately 300 miles from Houston: no estimated time. North on Interstate 45 toward Dallas for 201 miles > Take a left onto Highway 287 going west toward Waxahachie for about 30 miles Turn left (heading south toward Cleburne) on Highway 67 for about 48 miles.

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