Texas history stars in a pioneer village exhibit

The Pioneer Living History Center is presenting a Christmas from the past this holiday season with a “Stars in the Village” exhibit that will take place from 6 to 9 p.m. during Winterfest on Saturday, as well as Dec. 10 and 11. Live music will be provided by the O’Neal Brothers Band on Dec. 10 only. 

The exhibit will feature old-fashioned fun with candle-making, a corn cob game and blacksmith demonstrations. Visitors can make ornaments and campfire popcorn, while sipping hot chocolate or wassail as they await the chance to meet Santa. 

“It’s lots of fun in a safe environment,” said board president Vicki Frenzel, who described a magical place with thousands of lights, a log cabin and homemade cookies. 

A house that was built in Cost, Texas in 1892 stands on the village grounds along with the Gates log cabin, which was built in 1856. When the two-story Muenzler House was moved to Gonzales, many claimed it was haunted. The house displays furniture, cookware, musical instruments, kerosene lamps and antique telephones from a bygone era. The Hamon church, which was built in the 1870’s houses an organ and the village also has a smokehouse, a school, an antique doctor’s office and an Outdoor Opry stage for plays. Elementary and junior high school students take field trips year-round to learn Texas history firsthand.  

Frenzel said volunteers make an annual event like “Stars in the Village” possible and that it has grown bigger and better over the last decade. 

“That’s the only way you can do something like this, with our amazing volunteers. And it’s a heartwarming to observe how much the children enjoy the activities without technology,” said Frenzel, who wanted to invite everyone to “come out to pioneer village and experience a real Christmas.” 

Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for children ages 6-12.