Mason, TX

Mason is named for the same man for whom Fort Mason was named, Lt. George T Mason, killed in action near Brownsville on April 25, 1846 (the war with Mexico). This fort was one of the second line of forts constructed to protect settlers from raiding Indians, mostly Comanches. The Llano River is the source of water.

Fort Mason produced 32 future generals in the American Civil War,the most famous being Robert E. Lee. This was his last place of service in the US Army before his position at the head of the Confederate Army. It was reoccupied in 1869.

The site of the old fort was donated to the Historical Society
of Mason County by M/M Richard P Eckert in memory of
his father Lee F Eckert.
Click here for more information on Fort Mason. 

The officers quarters were restored by the Mason Co Historical
Society in 1976. Dedicated to Kurt Zesch "who's Herculean
effort made the project a reality."

Yep, I'd build my fort on the highest spot. A long way down that hill
to water though. 

Lee is 5th from the left on the top row. John Bell Hood
is on the bottom right. Famous for leading Texas Hood Brigade
Fort Hood army base ( in Bell and
Coryell counties) is named for him as is Hood County. 

Author of Old Yeller, Fred Gipson, is from Mason.
Click here for more info on Fred Gipson

Sam and one of the museum volunteers discuss the
history of this county. 

Mammoth tooth found in 1932 about 10 miles south of
Mason in Bader Creek. 

A rare form of topaz is found in this area. The "largest piece ever
found in North America" (per the museum display) was found
here. I could not get a good photo due to the light reflections.

Mason County Courthouse

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Sequist House. First build in 1896. The exterior is a
"symphony of Italianate design" (per brochure produced by
Sequist House Foundation). 

22 rooms, 15 fireplaces, antique stained glass. By 2012 in need of
restoration. A group of concerned citizens formed a foundation to
raise funds and got the house placed on the "Twelve Most
Endangered Properties" list by Preservation Texas. Tours run
March - December while restorations continue.