“Back to the Future” is one of my all-time favorite films. From the plot and characters to the actors, directors, and stunning visuals, every element comes together to make it a true classic in my eyes.
My thoughts drifted to BTTF III… As my sister and I rode the train, I couldn’t help but imagine that we might end up in 1885 alongside Marty McFly and Doc Brown. In a way, it felt like we were there—though, sadly without the iconic wardrobe to complete the experience.
Pioneer Town
Pioneer Town is an old western town with many buildings being facades with mannequins and items used back in the day. Some buildings are uniquely used, such as the ice cream parlor that sells ice cream, the Opera House can be rented out for events, and the game room is fun for kids of all ages. Click here to read what I wrote about it after my first visit.
What I didn’t write about in that article is the Cowboy Museum? Well… because it wasn’t open during the week I was there. It’s only open on the weekends, which is something to keep in mind when you visit. This fascinating museum might should be Cowboys and Indians Museum because there is almost as many Native American Indian artifacts and photos as there are Cowboys.
Sweet Cherie Glover, widow of the late Jack Glover, was very informative and told us the history of her husband, the museum, as well as 7A Ranch.
7A Ranch
Once upon a time…. Well, as I’m told, back in the 1940s when Central Texas was a lot less civilized, a man named Raymond L. Czichos and his wife, Madge, built there one room home on an acre of land they purchased. As their family grew, they bought another acre for their son and his family to build a home…. And so on… until they had seven acres (7A) for their families. Czichos began building Pioneer Town as an attraction and entertainment for the public. 7A is now 142 acres with three lodges, several units, and cabins for families of all sizes to stay. My personal favorite is Meg’s Boarding House so that I can an get an authentic feel of staying in a western town. I wrote about it here, where I talked about feeling like being on a set of When Calls the Heart (yes, I’m a “heartie”); a favorite tv show on the Hallmark Channel (yes, I’m a #1 fan).
Jack Glover (February 17, 1924 – August 25, 2015)
I wish I could’ve met the man known as “Texas Jack.” A real Cowboy… and Indian since he was half Cherokee. Chief of Police of the Lumbee Nation, Jack’s face is the face you see in a lot of paintings of cowboys and Indians, as professional artists loved for him to model. A friend to many, including many celebrities from the 50s and 60s western movies, in a movie with Johnny Crawford and a mentor to Kevin Costner while filming Dances with Wolves.
Jack was also known as the International Bobbed Wire King. There are many samples with the names of each one in the museum, which could be an article on its own. Which begs the question – Is it “bobbed wire” or “barbed wire?” I’m glad you asked. Technically it’s both. And if you ever get the chance to see Texas Jack’s collection with names of each sample, you will agree he could’ve called it whatever he liked.
The Cowboy Museum and Gift Shop
You can’t judge a book by its cover! This museum may look like a typical 1880’s General Store on the outside. But man-o-man it is packed full of so many things you may or may not have seen over the last 100 years. Texas Jack started the museum, which has been at a few locations over the years, back when everyone traded merchandise. You’ll see anything from household items to a real longhorn skin to the famous giant Jackalope. Bring your pocketbook because there are antiques and gifts you can purchase, as well. (only not the bobbed wire…. Unless you can convince Cherie to let it go.)
Shanghai
Shanghai the Longhorn steer is over 125 (now over 145) years old. Pickled, not tanned, his hide was nailed to its form in 1880. For many years, during his life in the 1870s, he was the lead steer for pioneer South Texas Cattleman Abel Head (Shanghai) Pierce. It is not known exactly how many times he led herds of Longhorns up the trail from Texas.
A descendant of the original Andalusian Cattle brought to the new world by the Spanish in the early 1500s, he is a classic example of the old time wild breed that helped build a state, and create an American Hero… “The Cowboy”
If you want to hop on a train straight back to 1885, just like in Back to the Future III,” this is the destination for you.
If you get the opportunity to explore Pioneer Town in Wimberley, Texas, whether for a day trip or an overnight stay, I’d love to hear all about your adventure!
A while back I visited this area of Texas and wrote about Old Baldy (Prayer Mountain), Jacob’s Well and Pioneer Town at 7A Ranch,
Just a little update on these places….
Old Baldy
Not much has changed since I came last time except, I didn’t have to cross a “caution tape” like I did before. Oops….
Jacob’s Well
The water level was down quite a bit from last time, which made it so much prettier. I could get closer to the well and was able to get some nice shots.
I absolutely love this place!
