The Columbus Historical Preservation Trust is dedicated to the preservation of the history and culture of Columbus, TX. It is our unique heritage that makes Columbus a special place to live. CHPT strives to keep that history alive.
CAPITAL CAMPAIGN
Save Our Opera House
Located in the heart of Columbus, Texas, the R.E. Stafford Opera House is considered by many to be the crown jewel of Colorado County. For many Columbus residents, past and present, the Opera House holds very special memories. Memories of weddings, proms, reunions, Magnolia Belle presentations, and other significant events that brought friends, family, and community members together. The Opera House is an important part of not only Columbus’ history but the history of its residents.
Over the past 30 years, several repairs to the building have been made. However, significant repairs and improvements to the aging building must now be made for guests to continue to fully utilize the space. Without these repairs, CHPT will not be able to rent the venue and will lose crucial revenue to continue the upkeep of the Opera House. Community members and businesses are invited to save the Opera House by joining the Stafford Opera House Legacy Giving Society.
PRESERVING HISTORY
Historic Properties
Stafford Opera House
1886 Stafford Opera House
The 1886 Stafford Opera House was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1973. When it was originally built in 1886 by cattleman R. E. Stafford, the R. E. Stafford Bank and Opera House housed a bank and dry goods store on the first floor and theater venue on the second floor. The Stafford Opera House is the largest flat-floored opera house in Texas and is the only flat-floored opera house still in existence in the state.
Alley Log Cabin
Alley Log Cabin and Antique Tool Museum
The Alley Log Cabin is a two-room oak log cabin and was built in 1836 by Abraham “Abram” and Nancy Alley. According to family history, the cabin was sided with pine lumber
floated by raft from a large sawmill in Bastrop in the early 1850s. The cabin stood on its original site from 1836 until 1976 when it was moved to Columbus and restored. The Antique Tool Museum opened in 1996. The small framed building that sits behind the log cabin was originally a store that sold school supplies and snacks to school children.
Santa Claus Museum
Santa Claus Museum
The Santa Claus Museum was created in memory of Mrs. Mary Elizabeth Hopkins, an avid collector of Santas of every shape and size. The museum opened in 1990 and is a one-of-a-kind destination. It houses three major collections featuring almost 3,000 Santas including figurines, music boxes, dolls, dishes, ornaments, artwork, needlework, and photos from all over the world. The Santa Claus Museum brings joy to all who seek the Christmas Spirit.
Dilue Rose Harris House Museum
Dilue Rose Harris House Museum
Dilue Rose is best known for her book Reminiscences, in which she tells of her family’s close acquaintance with the several leaders of the Texas Revolution and recounts her journey during the Runaway Scrape. Dilue married Ira Harris in 1839 and they moved to Columbus in 1845. They built their modest “tabby” home in 1858 and lived in it with their nine children. In 1988-1989 the Dilue Rose Harris House was converted into a museum. It is furnished with early Victorian walnut and Texas pine pieces, many belonging to families from the Columbus area.
BUILDING COMMUNITY
Upcoming Events
2024 History Forum – Photography of Columbus: Past and Present
In partnership with the Nesbitt Memorial Library, CHPT will host the annual History Forum on Tuesday, November 12, 2024. The forum will be held in the Buddy Rau Room of the Stafford Opera House starting at 6:00 p.m. This year's topic is Photography of Columbus: Past and Present and will feature the newly released Seasons...
Columbus, TX 78934 United States
“Have Yourself a Tasty Little Holiday” Online Auction
CHPT will hold its 4th Annual “Have Yourself a Tasty Little Holiday” online auction from November 13 – 17. Funds will support CHPT’s “Save Our Opera House” capital campaign and allow the organization to make much-needed repairs to the Stafford Opera House. More than 50 items will be up for auction this year, including delicious...
PERFECT SPACES
Rent the Stafford Opera House
Host your event at the beautiful 1886 Stafford Opera House. With two spaces available, we can accommodate events large or small.
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