BROWNWOOD

Link to Brownwood Home Page

Population 18,752

Altitude 1,342

General

Established in 1856, city became one of the state's largest cotton-buying centers. Oil discovered in 1920s; substantial industrial development in recent decades. A number of fine old structures of native sandstone... homes, a former mill, stores, and schools...are reminders of city's history. Home of Howard Payne University.

U.S. Department of Agriculture's W.R. Poage Pecan Field Station located here since 1939; 16 new varieties developed since 1953.

Brownwood lies on U.S. 183, a segment of the Ports to Plains Highway connecting the state's heartland to coastal ports.

BROWN COUNTY MUSEUM OF HISTORY

CAMP BOWIE MEMORIAL PARK

DOUGLAS MACARTHUR ACADEMY OF FREEDOM

LAKE BROWNWOOD STATE PARK

Attractions

• BROWN COUNTY MUSEUM OF HISTORY - Seven rooms of exhibits in old, cattle like jail. Brown County history, and evolution of communications exhibit in room sponsored by West Texas Pioneer Telephone Club. Open Wed 1 to 4 p.m. Sat 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 200 Block of North Broadway near courthouse.
• CAMP BOWIE MEMORIAL PARK - Honors men of famed 36th Infantry Division ("T-Patch"). Small park features vintage military equipment, cannon, armor. At intersection of Burnett Drive and Travis Road, Camp Bowie Industrial Park.
• DOUGLAS MACARTHUR ACADEMY OF FREEDOM - Affiliate of Howard Payne University specializing in history and government in the context of Western civilization. Dedicated to Gen. Douglas MacArthur; displays some of his personal souvenirs. Unique study settings lure visitors - Mediterranean Room flanked by replicas of Egyptian tomb statues; Magna Carta Hall replica of English castle room; replica of meeting room in Philadelphia's Independence Hall. Magnificent three-story mural highlights academy enrance. Tours Mon. - Sat. while school is in session. Call 915-646-2502. Austin Avenue (F.M. 2524)at Coggin Street.
• LAKE BROWNWOOD STATE PARK - 538 Acre park offers swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, camping, nature study, trailer facilities, rest rooms, shelters, cabins, and group camp accommodations. 23 miles northwest via Texas 279 and Park Road 15. Admission.

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