Located in the heart of Round Top is a treasure of a square that is home to an eclectic group of artists and artisans with one-of-a-kind objects ranging from antique textiles to artist-created home furnishings. The best made-to-order pizza and cold beer or wine around can also be found here. Named after the founder of the Texas Pioneer Arts Foundation, Faith Bybee, Bybee Square features special events and extended hours during Antiques Week. Just one block off of the main Antique Trail of Hwy 237, on Mill Street, one will find the most visible entrance to the square. One of the squares noteworthy buildings is the 1800s stone brewery. Currently it is home of the Stone Cellar, which serves pizza, beer, and fine wine. The building has a fabulous cellar complete with fireplace. Several evenings during the show one will find live music outside under the live oaks. Check them for a schedule at 979-249-3390. The two-story building next door to the Cellar houses Laura Sgovio Designs. The building was originally located on the block of Live Oak Street facing the Town Square but was moved in the early 1900s to its current location. It once housed a mercantile business operated by the von Rosenberg family. Laura is a noted jewelry designer who also carries works by other designers along with a line of bath and body products and candles. She is open for late-night shopping during the show and usually hosts an open house. You can check for hours at 979-249-3618. On the other side of the Cellar is the Copper Shade Tree. The building was constructed in the late 1800 and was home to the Recknagel family. It was originally located next to the Apothecary, facing the square on Live Oak Street. In 2004 it was moved to its present location. Built entirely of native cedar, still smells nice after more than 150 years. Actor Sam Elliot was filmed as Sam Houston here some years ago. Today Gerald and Debbie Tobola operate the Copper Shade Tree gallery here, which features Texas artisans. They carry some of the most unique jewelry and home decor items around, and also do custom order commissions. Artist demonstrating their craft are usually showcased during the show, along with featured artists. Call 979-249-4127 for dates and hours. The little building on the corner of Mill Street is actually two shops in one. It was moved here from Henkel Square in 2004, as was the Copper Shade Tree structure, and dates from the late 1800 as well. Now home to Crazy Emma, named for shop owner Nancy Coopers black lab, the boutique features doggie items, fun sandals, and things that are just plain unique. The shop has expanded hours during the show, so call 979-421-0261 for times. Cowgirl Junkys is the second business here, and as the front porch attests, it is very eclectic with antique and funky items for the home. Owner Helen Roberts has a great eye for decorative items, and also makes some of the best pickled jalapeños on the planet. Plan on getting there early as she usually runs out during the show. Tel. 832-326-4478. Behind the Copper Shade Tree, on the east side of the deck, is the nationally-recognized Gallery at Round Top, which features fine art in varied media-- from oil paintings and fine jewelry to folk art. The building was constructed in the 1970s by Mrs. Bybee using techniques that were common locally during the late 1800s. It was moved to the present location in 2004. The gallerys owners are artists Ken Munzenmeyer, wife Karen Vernon, Linda Tibolla and her husband Dave. They showcases artists from several states with openings, workshops, and private events scheduled throughout the year. Late shopping and events are planned for the show, so be sure to call 979-249-4119 for a schedule. Next door to the Gallery, on the corner of Austin Street and von Rosenberg, sits Comforts, which is also run by the owners of The Gallery. This building, from the late 1800s, was the home of the Knutsen family. It was originally located between the Chamber office and Botts Title, facing the town square on Mill Street. It was moved by Mrs. Bybee to her farm in the 1960s and moved again to the present location in 2003. Comforts is full of art designed for living-- from door knockers to dishes. Between the south side of the Bybee deck and Austin Street is home to Pandora de Balthazar, Luxury European Bedding. The house, built in the 1860s, was residence of Miss Ima Hogg in the 1960s and 70s, so it is often called the Ima Hogg house. It features two stories and a stone cellar. The room facing the deck was added in 2004. Pandora de Balthazar is famous for her antique textiles, Hungarian Goose bedding and hand-crafted, natural lavender bath and body products. Her business is all about rest, relaxation and rejuvenation. Stop in and you will likely be put to bed and given lavender body butter to rub on your hands. She has late-night shopping, massages and a book-signing planned for the show. Call 979-249-2070 for the details. The little building on the west side of the deck, backing up to Live Oak Street, houses artist Beth Anderson. The building was erected in the late 1800s and moved here in 2004. Beth is an artist who paints what she loves best-- the people and places of Texas. She also takes on special commissions. Please call her at 979-249-5962 for more information.
Bybee Square is a wonderful place to visit throughout the year to shop, stroll, sit under the oaks, and have a pleasant time. Parking is available on all four sides of the square, but not immediately in front of the shops facing Mill Street. Be sure to visit this historic square during your stay in the area.
|
