Gruene, Texas has been “Gently Resisting Change Since 1872″. Considered a Ghost Town today, Gruene was once a notable source of Cotton production in the Central Texas area. The original “owner” and founder of Gruene was a German farmer named Heinrich D. Gruene. Today most of the city that once belonged to Gruene, belongs to Patrick S. Molak and his partner Mary Jane Nalley. Molak & Nalley are commited to helping Gruene retain it’s Historical ambiance and have helped solidify the city as a popular National Tourist Destination.
Six years after the city was founded, Gruene Hall – “The Oldest Dance Hall in Texas” was opened. With live music almost nightly, Gruene Hall has played host to some of the most famous musical acts in History including Willie Nelson, George Strait, Jerry Jeff Walker, and Lyle Lovett who got his start in this small Texas Dance Hall. And if you’ve seen the campy movie Michael starring John Travolta, the dance scene was filled inside Gruene Hall.
For me, the best part about “living” in a small town like Gruene is access to great food, great antiques, and a wide array of novelty items. Today I discovered a new passion for Chocolate Rock Candy from the Gruene General Store, and I ate one of the best meals of my life at the River House Tea Room, a 5-star multi-award winning restaurant, the likes of which you would never expect to find in this small Texas Town.
Here are some photos from today’s adventure – Check out the Chocolate Covered Jalapenos!
