Region: Mason

Bluffs on the Llano River between Mason and Castell, Texas

Historical Seaquist House built in 1896, Mason Texas

Mason texas wildflowers

On the road between Llano and Mason

Mason

Mason, Texas, the seat of Mason County, grew under the protection of Fort Mason, one of series of Texas frontier forts.

Lodging

History:

Primarily a cavalry post, Fort Mason was duty station for confederate military figures such as Albert Sidney Johnston, John Bell Hood and Robert E. Lee. Fort Mason was Lee’s last command in the U.S. Army. From there he was called to Washington, where he refused command of the Union army being prepared for the War Between the States. Briefly activated after that war, Fort Mason was abandoned in 1869. The reconstructed building is on its original foundations. The double fireplace foundations are original, and the rock used was from the original building materials of the fort. Fort Mason is on the Texas Forts Trail. It is about five blocks south of the Mason County courthouse.

Tradition:

Mason County M. Beven Eckert Memorial Library: In addition to books, magazines, and other items found in libraries, special areas highlight local literary celebrities. Fred Gipson, author of Old Yeller and Savage Sam, is from Mason. Take time to look at the full exhibit on him in the library and stroll out from the library to see the “Old Yeller” statue. Other exhibits include information of the Eckert James River Bat Cave and genealogy information on early Mason families. It is open weekdays and Saturday. It is located just south of the square.

Mason County Museum: A general collection of Mason County historical items is housed in this old schoolhouse built in the 1870s, largely from material from Fort Mason buildings. The original spring for the fort still flows just east of the museum, although not as profusely as when it served the fort.

The Mason County Veterans’ Memorial: This powerful granite war memorial is located on Courthouse Square inscribed with the names of Mason County veterans. The project was initiated and completed by Mason High School’s Class of 2001 as a tribute to military service given by Mason County veterans.

The Seaquist Home: This old Texas frontier house was constructed in the 1880s. It contains a grand total of 17 rooms and 14 fireplaces. It exhibits outstanding craftsmanship, unusual architecture, and unusual furnishings. It is located at 400 Broad St.

Recreation and Relaxation:

Many homes and businesses are constructed of original-cut sandstone blocks from old Fort Mason. Bluebonnets blanket surrounding hillsides and valleys during spring. There are picturesque rock fences stitched along scenic countryside. Topaz, the state gem, is found in Mason County’s streambeds and ravines. For information about topaz hunts, contact the Mason County Chamber of Commerce.

Visitors enjoy the historic town square. The quaint Mason County courthouse amid large pecan trees offers an excellent photo opportunity. The restored Odeon Theater features movies and musical entertainment throughout the year.

Nature:

Mason is noted for camping, hunting, and fishing. White-tailed deer and wild turkey attract hunters each fall and winter; fishing in the beautiful Llano River is a year round sport.

Eckert James River Bat Cave: One of the largest Mexican free-tailed bat colonies is found here. It is located at James River Rd, Mason, TX, 76856.

The Fort Mason City Park: is a 125-acre park with picnicking facilities among large pecan trees. This Hill Country Park is fully equipped RV camping sites, a 9-hole golf course, a rodeo arena, athletic fields, walking trails, and a playscape.

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Fun Stuff

There are plenty of opportunities for day trips from the Mason area.

Enjoy a relaxing drive through the spectacular Texas Hill Country on wide-open roads lined with breath-taking flowers and trees. Relish views only available in the Hill Country. You’ll feel like you’re light years away from a crowded freeway…because you are.

And, you won’t have to pick up and move. No packing and unpacking. You can make yourself at home and still experience a multitude of adventures that are fun for the whole family.

Here are just a few of the possibilities: