BROOKSHIRE

Population 3,140

Altitude 168

General

Established with building of the MKT Railroad in the early 1880s on rich alluvial land included in Stephen F. Austin's original impresario grant. Agriculture is still prominent in the area economy with rice, peanuts, soybeans, and cattle, plus oil and gas. Brookshire lies on I-10, a segment of the Port to Plains Highway connecting the state's heartland to coastal ports.

Attractions

• LILYPONS WATER GARDENS - Aquatic nursery and water gardening specialist with 13.5 acres of blooming water lilies, lotus, and other aquatic plants. Over 20 ponds are on display with koi up to 28" long and other exotic goldfish. Lotus Blossom Festival (June) and Koi Festival (Sept.) feature champion quality koi and arts and crafts. Open Mar. - Oct., daily 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Nov. - Feb., Mon. - Sat. 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; just south of I-10 at 839 F.M. 1489. 713-391-0076.
• WALLER COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM - Housed in former home, circa 1910, of Dr. Paul Donigan, turn-of-the-century Armenian-American physician. Period furnishings in parlor, bedroom, dining room, and kitchen. Exhibit rooms feature county history in artifacts, documents, photos, and a series of historic wall paintings. Open Wed., and Fri. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sat. from 9 a.m. to noon. At 5th and Cooper Streets; 713-934-2826.

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