October Leadership Washington County: History & Heritage Day
The October 2025 session of Leadership Washington County gave participants a meaningful look into the people, places, and stories that shaped Washington County. The day began at The Barnhill Center at the Historic Simon Theater in Downtown Brenham, where Barry Brass (LWC Class of 2008) led an informative presentation and tour. Participants viewed Step Into the Past, a film exploring Brenham’s origins and highlighting the individuals who influenced the community’s early development. Mr. Brass also discussed the 1925 Vaudeville Theatre and shared insights about Toubin Park, a State Archaeological Landmark featuring historic cisterns used to store rainwater for firefighting.
From the Barnhill Center, the class traveled to the Texas Cotton Gin Museum in Burton. Museum Director Steph Jarvis guided participants through the story of cotton in Washington County and demonstrated how the cotton gin transformed the industry. The group learned about the museum’s exhibit Cotton: From Wagon to Finished Bale and enjoyed seeing “Lady B,” the largest operating internal combustion engine of its kind. Many attendees commented that the museum was a favorite stop and appreciated discovering more about the area’s agricultural roots.
After returning to Brenham for lunch at The Cannery Kitchen, the afternoon began with a presentation from the Brenham ISD Bond Committee, which provided an overview of current and future projects within the school district. County Clerk Beth Rothermel followed with an engaging presentation on Washington County’s historical records. She shared how marriage, birth, land, and probate documents preserve the stories of local families and contribute to a deeper understanding of the county’s development.
The next stop was the Giddings Stone Mansion where members of the Heritage Society guided the participants through the historic home built by J. D. Giddings after the yellow fever epidemic of 1870.
The class enjoyed the mansion’s rich architectural details and appreciated hearing the stories behind the Giddings family and their influence on Brenham. The session concluded with tours of the Fireman’s Museum and the Brenham Heritage Museum. At the Fireman’s Museum, participants viewed “Samanthe,” a rare 1923 fire engine, and learned about the long history of the Brenham Fire Department. The Brenham Heritage Museum provided additional context for the day by showcasing exhibits that highlight important moments and artifacts from Washington County’s past.
Leadership Washington County extends its gratitude to The Barnhill Center, the Texas Cotton Gin Museum, The Cannery Kitchen, Brenham ISD, County Clerk Beth Rothermel, the Giddings Stone Mansion, the Fireman’s Museum, and the Brenham Heritage Museum. The October session offered participants a valuable opportunity to connect with local history and gain a deeper appreciation for the community they serve.
WASHINGTON COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
BRENHAM, TEXAS
The Power of Chamber Membership: Strengthening Your Business in 2026
As we move toward 2026, Chamber membership continues to be one of the most effective ways for local businesses to grow, connect, and stay competitive. Membership isn’t just a badge, it’s a strategic investment that expands your visibility, strengthens your credibility, and plugs you into a network of leaders committed to the success of Washington County.
Through your Chamber membership, your business gains year-round exposure in our online directory - one of the most visited resources for residents, newcomers, and visitors seeking trusted local services. This visibility helps customers find you faster and places your
business front-and-center in a community that values connection and local support.
Beyond visibility, members benefit from networking events, educational programs, advocacy efforts, and opportunities to build meaningful relationships with other business owners and community partners. These connections often lead to new customers, collaborations, and fresh ideas that help your business adapt and thrive.
As we enter 2026, the Chamber remains committed to elevating your business through marketing opportunities, workforce development initiatives, and continued support
Thielemann Construction Co (979) 836-9386
2310 South Market Street Brenham www.thielemannhomes.com
www.BrenhamTexas.com
for a strong local economy. Membership ensures you’re not navigating challenges alone, but standing with a community that is actively invested in your success.
Together, we grow stronger.
Jamie Rankin President & CEO
Washington County Chamber of Commerce
The Scout Guide Brazos Valley (713) 557-9880 103 N. Hill St. Caldwell www.thescoutguide.com/brazos-valley Tres Chic Boutique (979) 836-9505 201 East Main Street, Brenham ww.treschictexas.com
Brenham www.psstaffing.com
LAZY JACKALOPE
Contact: Courtney Prenzler
Burton, Texas 77835
Phone: 979-451-1306
www.lazyjackalope.com
General Merchandise-Retail
Welcome New Members
PEACOCKS FORMAL DRESS BOUTIQUE
Contact: Lisa S. Majeski
217 W. Main Street
Brenham, Texas 77833
Phone: 832-630-5472
www.peacocksformal.com
Retail
Jamie Rankin ..............................................President & CEO
Jane Hinze .................................Member Services Manager
Dawn Konieczny ...................Communications Coordinator
Sarah Hansen .....................................Financial Coordinator
(Public Education Ambassador for Community Engagement)
is encouraged to share the monthly value and promote that value within the company so that possible employees and customers will see that you also support public education. It is hoped that the adults who see these values at their workplace will share with the children in their lives who are also seeing this at school. These Core Essential Values are taught at Brenham ISD. Be a 2025-26 Partner! Go to www.brenhamtexas.com/p-e-a-c-e/
VALUE OF THE MONTH SPONSOR
Membership Renewals
Washington County Blue Blazers
The Blue Blazers is a club with 20-25 members and more than 50 years of tradition. They support the mission of the Washington County Chamber. The volunteers in the club act as official greeters and hosts of our community. Their activities include monthly meetings, greeting at Chamber functions, recruiting new Chamber members, and conducting ribbon cuttings and grand openings.
Courtney Blalock
Hodde Real Estate
Jake Carlile Arete Property Group, LLC
Joyce Dickschat
Brenham National Bank
Whitney Hooks
Brazos Valley Schools Credit Union
Makaela Horne South Land Title, LLC
Brooke Huckert ValuePoint Wealth Management
Tammy Jaster City of Brenham-Blue Bell Aquatic Center
Renee Lange
Volunteer Services Council for Brenham State Supported Living Center
