Not So Spur-Of-The-Moment
Getting ready for your visit to The Coryell County Museum and Historical Center? Countless visitors have exclaimed that their experience here ranks among the best museum visits they’ve ever had. Now, it’s your turn to discover why!
Step into the rich tapestry of Coryell County’s history and explore our captivating exhibits and collections. We’ve got a 24,450-square-foot space with 50 exhibits. Get ready to be inspired, educated and immersed in the stories that shaped our area of Texas. We look forward to welcoming you!
Know Before You Go
Museum Hours
Wednesday — Saturday
10 a.m. — 4 p.m.
Price
Admission is free, but donations are appreciated!
Our Space
24,450 square feet
50 exhibits
Key Exhibits
Lloyd and Madge Mitchell Spur Collection
Explore the world’s largest collection of spurs, including iconic pieces worn by figures like Jackie Kennedy and Pancho Villa. The Spur Collection is a treasure trove of history and craftsmanship, including Western art, memorabilia and other timeless relics that offer
a unique glimpse into the past.
Coryell County Log Jail
The old log cabin jail is believed to be the last double-wall jail in existence. Built in 1855, one year after the founding of Coryell County, it was the first public building constructed in the county. The famous outlaw Sam Bass once spent a night in jail here after finding himself in trouble near Gatesville.
Coryell County Military and
Veterans Display
Located in the Dawson Cooper Exhibit Hall, the museum’s military exhibit tells the stories of local heroes, including their involvement in the Texas Revolution through Operation Iraqi Freedom. Visitors can also learn about the history of Camp Hood, which has grown to be Fort Cavazos, the largest military installation in the United States.
The Back Hall
When you walk through the back hall, you’re taking a journey back to simpler times. Featuring an actual soda fountain from a local drug store, a hair salon, an apothecary, a blacksmith shop, Buckhorn Saloon and antique Model Ts from 1915 and 1923, you’ll get to temporarily time travel to days gone by. Can you spot the man in the mirror in the saloon?
Grab Your Boots and
Giddy Up to Spurfest
Every third Saturday in September, Coryell County comes alive with our annual Spurfest, a cherished tradition hosted by The Coryell County Museum and Historical Center. This lively festival celebrates the county’s rich heritage with games, music and performances, drawing both locals and out-of-town visitors. Join us for a day of entertainment, cultural celebration, and homage to our renowned spur collection.
Spurfest is an annual celebration of Coryell County’s rich heritage, proudly hosted by The Coryell County Museum and Historical Center. This cherished tradition brings together our community and visitors for a day of entertainment, including music, games, and captivating performances suitable for all ages.
Spurfest also provides an opportunity to connect with the profound history of Coryell County, paying homage to our world-famous spur collection. From pin the tail on the horse for children to live dulcimer music, cowboy talks, and Wild West reenactments for adults, there’s something for everyone. Each year, we introduce new performances and artists, such as martial arts and medieval sword work, and a charismatic Waxahachie-based poet known as the “Cowboy Lariat.”
Join us each year for this journey into Coryell County’s vibrant past and stay tuned to our website for updates!
FAQs
How much is it to get into the museum?
Admission into the Coryell Museum is free for all ages. However, donations are always appreciated.
What hours are you open?
The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with the last group allowed at 3:30 pm.
Do you have a gift shop?
Our gift shop is your official source for everything related to “The Spur Capital of Texas”, as we have t-shirts, hats, and jewelry. You can even buy a spur to take home with you. In addition, we have a variety of books by local authors on the area’s history and more.
What about parking?
The museum offers free parking on the street in front of and beside the museum.
How much time should I allot for visiting the museum?
We recommend about 1-3 hours.
How big is the museum?
Our facility is 24,450 square feet and features 50 exhibits.