Randy Mallory is a writer and photographer with memories of Winnsboro from his childhood. According to his article, a musician friend told him about the vibrant cultural scene and the designation as one of the first "Texas Cultural Arts District" that is fueling more tourism. It's clear his view of today's Winnsboro has been enlightening.
As a town that has buildings that date back a century, Winnsboro is in a constant state up upgrade as a Texas Main Street City in the Texas Historical Commissions program.
In the eight-page spread, he captured the the essence of our corner of East Texas. He noted the history of the compact downtown historic district included visits from Bonnie and Clyde, an active "Bowery" on Market Street with saloons, brothels and gambling halls.
Mallory was in town the same weekend as the 3rd Friday Art Walk , a monthly event that has a different theme each month. Residents in costume casually wander downtown in a casual Fashion Walk in historic clothing styles. Denise Marsoun, who owns Silhouette Dressmaking, is responsible for creating historic costumes for men and women of Winnsboro.
Steampunk was the theme of the January 3rd Friday on the weekend he was documenting Winnsboro's charms. At Art & Espresso, an intense Tea Duel was captured in one photo.
Music has a significant presence in Winnsboro and includes Crossroads (the original name of the city) owned by Gus Gustafson. It was mentioned in the article that the award-winning duo of Adler & Hearne tour regularly, but still play at Crossroads when they're home.
Until the Crossroads Listening Room is finished, performances are held in the Winnsboro Center for the Arts. The WCA also stages art exhibits and theater performances throughout the year, including the recent "War of the Worlds".
There's such a variety of businesses in the downtown area, Mallory had to cherry pick his personal favorites which included Patty Cake Antiques, Sayadream Studio, Conrad Wolfman's Winnsboro Emporium, Clara Idea Frances, Beauweevils and Ladles to Linens and StarDragonfly Herb Company.
Chef Rick Murray demonstrated his pizza-making skills. Jeff Heath's Brewbaker's Restaurant and Pub showed off his Philly Steak and French Dip Sandwiches. Liefie Li Vine adds an intriguing menu as it is owned and run by Jackie and Phillip Strydom who are from South Africa. They have a year-round outdoor patio to the delight of the patrons.
To read the article online, click on this LINK.
