Old Settlers Association • Round Rock

Old Settlers Association • Round Rock

Written by Amy Stansbury Thursday, 03 July 2008

A group of ex-Confederate soldiers held a reunion in Georgetown Aug. 27, 1904, for the old settlers of Williamson County and their descendants. The invitation promised “good music, plenty to eat, and above all a warm welcome.” The event was well-attended, and reunions — now called Old Settlers Association Celebrations — have been held annually ever since.

This year marks the 105th celebration, which will be July 10 through 12 at the OSA grounds at the corner of Hwy. 79 and Harrell Parkway. OSA President Irene K. Michna said the purpose of the reunions today is the same as it was in 1904: to perpetuate the history of Williamson County. “We try to make sure we educate all the people in Williamson County about the old settlers,” Michna said. “The more we can teach these young people about history, the better. It’s going to die if we don’t.”

Michna said she has never missed a celebration in her 64 years, and her mother and grandmother did not either. It is simply a time meant for spending time together, she said. “We just sit around and visit,” she said. “People come by just to talk and look at things on the property.”

The reunion used to last a full week, but Michna said this year it will only last three nights because of the high fuel prices. “Everyone used to stay in the cabins or tents, but now they all stay in trailers,” Michna said. “I guess those days are gone.”

The celebrations were held for many years at Harrell Park in Round Rock, which was on the land west of IH 35, between RM 620 and McNeil Road, where a shopping center stands today. In 1987, the association bought 20 acres off Hwy. 79, and the first celebration was held there in 1988. The property now features three log cabins, the Palm mansion and Rice’s Crossing Store, all of which have been moved from other locations. There is also a main hall and the RV park. All of the buildings except the cabins can be rented out for events, such as rehearsal dinners, wedding receptions, birthday parties, showers, meetings and family gatherings.

Michna said her parents, Vernon and Justene Walton, suggested building the RV park because they had a trailer. “Building an RV park was the best thing we ever did,” Michna said. “They made sure [the association and annual celebrations] had no chance of ever dying.” The RV park and event rentals are a revenue generator for scholarships the association gives to students in Williamson County. Last year, three $1,200 scholarships were awarded.

All members of the organization are descendants of Williamson County residents prior to 1904. OSA has approximately 50 active members and 300 members total.

Old Settlers Association, 3300 Palm Valley Blvd., 388-1733 • www.wcosa.org

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