DAWN OF WASHINGTON COUNTY MATINEES AT THE SIMON
Saturday matinees will be offered at the Simon Theatre for the first time in over 30 years. The opening of The Barnhill Center at Historic Simon Theatre brings the inaugural showing of The Dawn of Washington County on the big screen. The 25-minute historical adventure will premier in the Simon Hasskarl Auditorium on Saturday, February 6.
Show times are most Saturdays at 11:00, 1:00 and 2:00. Admission is $3 for adults and $1 for children under 12 years of age. Tickets are available at the Washington County Visitor Center in The Barnhill Center at Historic Simon Theatre at 115 W. Main Street.
“People who grew up in Washington County can now revisit their memories of the historic theatre,” said Jennifer Eckermann, manager of Main Street Brenham and leader of the renovation project. “Many attended every Saturday as children and they were sad to see the theatre close 30 years ago.
“We believe that the newly restored auditorium will attract locals and tourists alike. The room is absolutely gorgeous. It will be a treat to see the movie, about our history, in that historic auditorium!”
“Almost everyone who sees the movie is enthralled with it,” said Barry Brass, a volunteer who runs the movie operation on Saturdays. “We’ve been showing an earlier version of it every Saturday since early October in the Bullock Ballroom upstairs. Even though that’s a beautiful room, most people I see on Saturdays can’t wait to see the new auditorium!”
The Dawn of Washington County is the story of the first settlers in Texas and the early development of Washington, Independence and Brenham. It is told by forefathers Jabez Deming “J. D.” Giddings and Dr. Richard Fox Brenham, following their adventures on the ill-fated Mier Expedition.
Mrs. R.E. (Mae) Pennington, Brenham author and historian of the past, helps these forefathers recount Dr. Brenham’s heroic death, as told in her 1915 book, The History of Brenham and Washington County.
Big Foot Wallace, an early Texas Ranger, is also part of the story. As a young man he participated in many events of the movie and he often retold them for the rest of his life.
“Even though the movie is only 25 minutes long, many people stay longer,” said Brass. “They are so excited about what they experienced, they are eager to ask more about the history.
“I love seeing their strong interest -- especially those who are not from our area. I view this as a testament to the fun and uniqueness of our history.
“It’s not a surprise that locals are just as enthusiastic. The movie is entertaining and full of newly researched facts that most residents don’t know – not even the history buffs.”
The Dawn of Washington County was written and produced by volunteer Sharon Brass, author of the 2011 book, The Burning of Brenham. The movie was funded by Main Street Brenham and filmed by James Pharaon Creative.
Narration is by Brenham attorney Steve Haley. Actors include Adam Arnold of Washington on the Brazos State Park, Cyndee Smith of Oldham Goodwin, Barry Brass of Kwik Kopy Business Center and Trailboss Troy Arndt of KTEX Radio Station. The soundtrack is by John Beland.
Filming was done at Washington on the Brazos State Historic Site, the Giddings Stone Mansion, Barrington Living History Farm and Double Star Ranch. Story and photos courtesy of Main Street Brenham.