Like an old grandmother, Blanco’s famous courthouse is a thread that ties us all together. A Texas Historic Landmark, the Old Blanco County Courthouse has anchored the square at the heart of downtown Blanco for over 124 years.

Today, the Grand Old Lady stands as an outstanding example of small town spirit. Blanco County’s former courthouse is subject to ongoing efforts to restore her to the elegance of her early years and to establish a sustainable role for her in the life of the community. The purpose of the Old Blanco County Courthouse Preservation Society is to restore, preserve, and maintain the Old Blanco County Courthouse as a historic site, and as a productive and integral part of the community of Blanco and the surrounding area.

In small town spirit, the OBCCPS in cooperation with Blanco Verde is hosting community potlucks in the old courtroom or out on the lawn, weather permitting. Keep an eye on the marquee for dates of these events. Bring a covered dish, drinks, and your own plates and silverware. Bring musical instruments and/or a singing voice. When held on the lawn, bring a lawn chair or blanket. Everyone is welcome!

The lawn is long overdue for new trees, plants, sidewalks, and walkways. Behind the scene, many volunteer hours and years of service have completed a master landscape plan with necessary approvals from the Texas Historical Commission and the Texas Department of Public Safety. Soon, you will see the second-phase groundwork begin to level and improve drainage. Some dead and short-life trees will be removed to make way for trees that will stand as long as the Old Courthouse. Please make a contribution for the courthouse grounds. Your donations to this project will enhance the natural elegance of our town, a benefit to you and all the citizens and businesses of Blanco.

Your participation, generosity, and continued support will enable the Old Blanco County Courthouse to serve a vital role in the community as well as demonstrate our deep-rooted Texas heritage. Get involved and help make a difference. Become an OBCCPS member in 2010 and vote at the annual meeting in March. Volunteer to be a Blanco Ambassador in the visitor center or shop the Blanco Market Day. Reserve the courtroom for your special event and attend the Gala in the fall of 2010. Come what may, our Grand Old Lady will continue to be a thread that ties us all together.

For more information or to make a tax deductible contribution, call 830-833-2211 or Rebecca Doll, Courthouse Manager, at 512-705-5074.