Tuesday, May 14, 2024
A small portion of spurs in the Mitchell Collection are on display on the second floor of the museum in the Spur Workroom where spurs and other artifacts are cleaned, labeled, numbered, and prepared for exhibit by museum volunteers.
Every year, the community gathers to celebrate the heritage of Coryell County at Spurfest. For its 22nd anniversary, the annual festival returns with a variety of games, music, and performances for families.
Hosted by The Coryell County Museum and Historical Center, Spurfest not only provides a day full of entertainment, but also gives locals and out-of-towners the opportunity to connect with Coryell County history and pay homage to the museum’s renowned spur collection.
“It’s not just for the kids, it’s for the adults too. It’s important to know the history, what role Coryell County played in the development of Texas, and celebrating that and being able to see it,” said Ervin Adams, Board President of the Coryell County Museum.
Games and activities for children can be found in rooms throughout the museum, including pin the tail on the horse, a cactus throw, pictures by the old jail, and a guess-the-number-of beans contest. However, visitors of all ages can enjoy listening to live dulcimer music, attend a cowboy talk at the chuckwagon, and try samples at a butter churning demonstration. Waco’s Karem Cowboys will return to Spurfest with skits and reenactments inspired by the Wild West.
This year’s event also brings new performances and artists. Additions include martial arts and medieval sword work on the square as well as a Waxahachie-based poet who calls himself the “Cowboy Lariat.”
The Spurfest raffle returns with drawings for a quilt adorned with a spur motif and two framed art prints of the Coryell County Courthouse by local artist Jon Brown. Raffle tickets can be purchased for $20 at the museum.
“It’s one of the big events in Gatesville that draws people from out of town,” said Catherine Fulton, board member of the Coryell County Museum.
Visitors can also check out the museum’s latest exhibits: a room filled with antique toys and a photo wall of pro football players from Coryell County.
Along with Spurfest, festival goers can attend the 37th annual Cruzin Cruzers Car Show on the courthouse square and the Old Time Fiddlers Contest in the City Auditorium.
Spurfest will take place on Sept. 16 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Coryell County Museum and in downtown Gatesville. Admission to the museum is free.
