Smithville, Texas

Smithville is located approximately 13 miles Southeast of Bastrop. Its friendly community is home to several unique shopping and dining spots, art galleries, and parts of the Colorado River. Downtown Smithville has some charming old buildings and a city park. Many older homes give this small town a great deal of charm. The town has been featured in many movies, the most notable being “Hope Floats”, and also gained recognition from Guinness Book of World Records. In December of 2006, Smithville created the world’s biggest gingerbread man (2009 edition of Guinness), measuring 20 ft from head to toe and weighing 1,308 lbs, 8 oz. The cookie sheet used was later converted into a monument to commemorate the record and is known by the name of Smitty. While he is the main symbol of Smithville’s annual Festival of Lights, he also sports seasonal magnets throughout the year and has become a popular tourist attraction.

History

The first house and first store were established around the late 1820’s by a Dr. Thomas Jefferson Gazley. The town and its name were later influenced by the family of William Smith. The informal naming of Smithville was later defended by a coin toss with the Burleson’s. Murray Burleson contributed to the establishment of a depot in the new town site when he learned of the Taylor, Bastrop, and Houston Railroad. By the late 1880’s, the railway was in place and the town really began to thrive. The Missouri, Kansas, and Texas took over the railroad in the 1890’s, establishing many shops and businesses. The city of Smithville was officially incorporated in 1895 and at the time was the largest city in Bastrop County. Many of the buildings there constructed in the 1800’s are still standing today.

Parks & Recreation

Among Smithville’s many parks are a skate park, bark park, Riverbend Park, and Veterans Memorial Park. Riverbend Park provides campsites and is the location where many of the community events are held, including Smithville Jamboree. Veterans Memorial Park features a monument honoring all who have served the USA along with a splash pad for the kids

Events

Smithville Jamboree
(Riverbend Park)

• Live Music
• Livestock Show
• Parade
• Carnival
• Pet Show
• Coronation of the Queen
• Tournaments: Softball, Volleyball, Horseshoe, & Washer
• Various Vendors

Texas Photo Festival

• Hosts models, sets, classes, & photography contests in Smithville’s historic setting.

Thunder On The Colorado Biker Rally
(Riverbend Park)

• Live Music
• Games
• Parade
• Bike Show
• Bike Wash
• Miss Thunder Contest
• Various Vendors
• Camping & More!

Festival Of Lights

• Holiday Exhibits
• Games
• Music
• Kids Area
• Food & Drinks
• Shopping
• Annual Lighted Parade