Gonzales: Texas History and Paddling Trails

The “Come and Take It Cannon” points to two defining dates in the history of Texas independence. In 1831, the Mexican government loaned the cannon to the settlers in Gonzales for protection against attacks by Indigenous groups. On October 2, 1835, the cannon fired the first shot for Texas independence. The cannon is on display at the Gonzales Memorial Museum, which also commemorates the “Immortal 32,” who fell at the Alamo.

Memorial Sites and Collections

The Gonzales Memorial Museum complex includes an open-air amphitheater with 500 seats. The Gonzales Pioneer Village Living History Center offers another perspective on the local past, with houses and buildings from the 19th and early 20th centuries in Gonzales County. Those interested in historical collections can find more than 700 rare and historic pieces from over 41 countries in the Charles DuBose Rare Gun Collection. The collection broadens the view beyond the town’s history to include objects from a variety of places of origin.

The Gonzales County Jail Museum was built in 1885. Architect Eugene T. Heiner designed the building to hold 200 prisoners in the event of unrest. The Site of the First Shot of the Texas Revolution also commemorates October 2, 1835: a monument clad in Texas gray granite stands near the site of the first shot. The grave of Sarah, who is associated with the “come and take it” flag, is at Green Dewitt Cemetery.

The Gonzales Memorial Museum at 414 Smith Street is also home to Texas Legacy in Lights, an immersive light-and-history presentation. It combines light and history in a distinctive form of interpretation, complementing the artifacts on display with a storytelling experience.

Paddling, Trails, and Parks

Two paddling trails on the water differ in length and layout. The scenic Independence Paddling Trail is a 2.6-mile loop on the Guadalupe River. No shuttle is needed for this loop. Trees along the shore provide shade, and there are also opportunities for fishing. The Come and Take It Paddling Trail is about 11 miles long and runs along the Guadalupe River near Gonzales. The route passes the confluence of the San Marcos River and the Guadalupe River.

Parks also offer a range of activities on land. Independence Park has a 2.35-mile hiking and biking trail with views of the Guadalupe River, as well as a 9-hole golf course. Kerr Creek Park features the relocated historic Oak Forest Bridge and an 18-hole disc golf course. At Palmetto State Park, visitors can swim, fish, and paddle. The options range from trails and golf to activities on the water, with each offering clearly distinct in nature.

Market and Events

The Come and Take It Makers Market offers fresh produce, locally sourced meat, handmade goods, and vendors offering arts and crafts. The Come and Take It Celebration takes place in downtown Gonzales on the first weekend in October. The Gonzo Liberty Battle is held annually at the disc golf course in Kerr Creek Park. The Texas Junior High Rodeo Association State Finals were held at JB Wells Park. If you want to plan your trip around an event, check the dates in advance.

Gonzales thus brings together historic memorial sites and collections with paddling trails, parks, and events. Which of these aspects you focus on can give your stay a distinct direction: perhaps the history of the Texas Revolution, activities on and by the water, or a visit planned around the market and event dates.

Discover more destinations: Gonzales, Nixon, Bexar, Freestone County, Armstrong County, Erath, Lee County, Waller.

For the main travel overview: Texas.