Jun 12, 2020
McGregor is a former railway town dating back to 1882. It was home to the Bluebonnet Ordnance Plant, which made munitions during the Second World War. It also played a key role in the development of America’s aerospace industries. McGregor looks forward to the future, but these local attractions tell stories of its rich past.
1. McGregor Station: 1 Amtrak Boulevard
An Amtrak station seems an unlikely historic relic, but McGregor’s Amtrak station is the same one built as a Santa Fe Railway depot. If not for this transport hub, McGregor may not even exist! Air-conditioning and a soda vending machine have modernized the station. However, it still has the historic railroad pew seating of the past. It’s not used as often as it once was, but the Chicago to Los Angeles Texas Eagle still stops here.2. McGinley Memorial Public Library: 317 South Main Street
McGinley Memorial Public Library may be one of America’s most glamorous libraries. You’ll find it in the old Ritz Theater, an Art Deco-style cinema which bears all the hallmarks of the golden age of Hollywood. A display of antique projection equipment and movie memorabilia in the balcony section reminds visitors of the building’s past.3. Texas Theatre: 411 West 3rd Street
It doesn’t look much from the outside now, but locals hope the Texas Theatre will return to its former glory. This 1912 building also has a special place in the hearts of film buffs. It’s the oldest remaining cinema in Texas. It now belongs to the Texas Museum of Theatre and Broadcast, who want to make it a cinema and performance space once again. The group has already made substantial repairs, so hopefully it won’t be too long before the Texas Theatre welcomes patrons once again. Until then, locals can see it from outside and imagine what might be.4. Deyerle-Fall House: 917 Old Oglesby Road
Deyerle-Fall House is one of McGregor’s grandest homes. William W. Deyerle, a Virginian banker, rancher, and miller, commissioned the house when he moved to McGregor in the late 1800s. Local stonemason Henry Wissman reportedly cut and placed every piece of limestone himself. Its arched windows, hipped roof, and central porch add to its allure. William Deyerle died in 1920. His wife and her new husband died just six years later. Her sister, Mary Fall, inherited the home. It stayed in her family until 1975. In 2019, McLennon County District Clerk Jon Gimble bought the property and all its contents. With antiques, furniture, books, and historic clothes, it’s a treasure trove of riches. Gimble plans to restore to the home. It’s unclear what he will do once the renovations are complete. However, hopefully the people of McGregor will get a chance to explore this piece of local history. Until then, architecture buffs can admire this special home from outside its fence. Whether you’re a resident or just passing through, these McGregor attractions offer a fascinating glimpse into the past. Take your time and visit each one to gain a better understanding of McGregor and the vital role it played in Texas’ development.
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