This western Hill Country town began as a ranching community with a strong influence by German immigrants, becoming the county seat of Mason County.
Fort Mason was established in 1851 as protection from attacks by Native Americans (mostly Comanches). Even after the fort was no longer necessary, frontier justice was still a part of Mason.
A decade later, when the danger passed, the original fort was disbanded. A reconstruction of the fort now occupies a grassy hill overlooking the town of Mason. Some of the original sandstone from Fort Mason was repurposed in some of Mason’s buildings.
In 1875 the Mason County War, also known as the Hoodoo War, broke out. It all started when the sheriff arrested a group of men who were taking cattle to Llano, allegedly without the owner’s permission. The men were set free on bond and ordered to remain in town, an order they promptly forgot. The sheriff re-arrested as many of the rustlers as he could find. A few nights later, a group freed the prisoners, sparking a round of shootings and lynchings that left a dozen men dead. The feud continued until January 1877, when the Mason County Courthouse was set on fire, destroying any evidence against the cattle rustlers.
Rock hounds come to Mason County today in search of topaz, the Texas state gem, which develops in colors ranging from clear to sky blue.
Most local topaz turns up near the small communities of Streeter, Grit, and Katemcy, all north and northeast of Mason. Searchers usually find the stones in streambeds and ravines by using picks and shovels to loosen rocks and a wire screen to sift the debris.
Old Yeller is remembered in Mason, Texas.
Some of Mason’s famous residents have included Robert E. Lee who was stationed at Fort Mason for a time and Fred Gipson, author of the popular book (and movie) Old Yeller. A statue of this famous canine stands in front of the Mason Public Library. The 1957 movie premiered in Mason’s historic Odeon Theater.
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Best Attractions in Mason, Texas
Eckert James River Bat Cave Preserve
A natural cavern serves as home to millions of Mexican free-tail bats who emerge at dusk to feed on mosquitoes and other insects. This is a “maternity cave,” used during the spring and summer months by female bats to bear and rear their young. From mid-spring until mid-autumn, visitors can gather to watch the evening display. Information on flight times and reservations for the tour are available through the Mason Chamber of Commerce. West on US 87, then south on RM 1723 to RM 2389.
Fort Mason
Atop Post Hill overlooking the town Mason, these reconstructed stone buildings recall the days when Fort Mason was part of a line of forts. The free museum contains uniforms and other military gear and a collection of historic photographs. South from the Mason County courthouse square.
Mason Square Museum
Rockhounds and casual visitors to this local history museum can ogle the largest blue topaz found in the nation as well as exhibits about the history of Mason County. 130 Fort McKavitt St.
Old Yeller Statue
A statue of Old Yeller stands in front of the Mason County M. Beven Eckert Memorial Library. The famous story, which became a Disney movie, was written by Mason native Fred Gipson. The library also has a display of memorabilia about Fred Gipson and what just might be the saddest dog story of all time. 410 Post Hill Rd.
Topaz Hunting
Several private ranches charge a daily fee for topaz hunting. Visitors must bring their own equipment (including water during warm summer months) and may keep whatever they find. Ranches offer topaz hunting from mid-Jan through Sept, closing during deer-hunting season. For current information on topaz hunting, check with the Mason Chamber of Commerce.
Festivals
JULY:
Roundup Rodeo Weekend. This Pro Rodeo event features traditional rodeo activities, a parade and arts and crafts show. Various locations around town and Fort Mason City Park, 1015 San Antonio Hwy.
NOVEMBER:
Mason Wild Game Dinner. Catered by Cooper’s Original Pit Bar-B-Q, this event features wild game, wine tasting and dancing.