There
is a risk in assuming that all of the US is a big strip mall. Certainly, after driving along any major highway
here, its not hard to see why such a view and description would be
correct. However, like anywhere in my experience….you have
got to get off the main road and explore to really find the gems.
Boerne
in south west Texas is just such a place.
Originally founded in 1852 by German settlers, it was a strategic
commercial center linking the Texas hill country with San Antonio. Today, it is a charming country town linking
the wine country with the city. It has a
wonderful old world main street that is lined by historic buildings and quaint
shops offering everything from antiques, leather goods, jewelry, and home made
preserves. There are also numerous cafes
and restaurants.
Its clear to the casual observer that art is
important to this community with plenty of art galleries and public art on
display. It reminds me of some of the
wonderful inland coastal towns of Queensland such as Eumundi or Mapletown.
By
pure luck, I drove into town on one of Boerne’s market days, held in the
historic Plaza. The Plaza was bustling
with locals and full of stalls with locally made produce, arts and crafts. There was also a San Antonio Spurs roadshow. And for those who know anything about
basketball, you will know that the Spurs are one of only four NBA teams to have
won 4 or more championships (which is a big deal here) and they had all 4 NBA
championship trophies on display.
My
pick of the visit though….The Calamity Jane Trading Co.
Loved it.
