A SHORT STORY LINE OF THE BRAZOS BELLE COMPLEX
A deed dated May 5, 1875, states that the land was sold for: one buggy and harness, one pair of mules, one gold watch and two promissory notes of $125.00 each. Construction began soon after and the building became home to the Burton Farmer's Cooperative, featuring produceand homemade goods, with livestock and poultry confined to the back of the building. Recorded details mention young children receiving immunization shots in a highchair located in what is now the restaurant bar area. Burton's first Post Office housed here for a time.In 1903, German immigrants William Dallmeyer and Joe Steiner opened a mercantile business - in operation for over fifty years.
The elegant Blue Building, featuring a false front & recessed central entry, was added adjacent to the mercantile in 1913. With its pressed tin ceiling & balcony, it became home to the dry goods store, featuring fabrics, clothing & just about everything for the modern home.
The businesses prospered & the owners expanded once again with a third building in 1930. It was of brick construction and housed the Humpty Dumpty Grocery.
The individual businesses continued in operation for over fifty years, closing in late the 1960s. The buildings remained unused and virtually abandoned until early 1970. A planned demolition had begun when, instead, the buildings were rescued and an ambitious restoration undertaken by new owners. The Brazos Belle Complex was the end result with each of the buildings filling a unique role as:
Restaurant - Gallery/Private Dining - Residence Apartment