Lehnis Railroad Museum & Visitor Center

06/19/2026

This Juneteenth, we reflect on the profound contributions of the Pullman Porters, the dedicated African American men who provided exceptional service on the luxurious Pullman sleeping cars, including the one right here at the Lehnis Railroad Museum.

Starting shortly after the Civil War, these porters (many formerly enslaved) helped revolutionize rail travel while facing significant challenges. Their hard work and organizing efforts led to the founding of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters in 1925 - the first major African American labor union - paving the way for broader civil rights advancements and greater economic opportunities for Black communities. Their story is a powerful chapter in the long journey toward freedom and dignity.

Today, as we celebrate Juneteenth and the emancipation of enslaved people in Texas, we honor their resilience and lasting impact on American history.

The Martin & Frances Lehnis Railroad Museum will be closed today in observance of the holiday. We’ll reopen with regular hours tomorrow, Saturday June 20th from 10am-4pm.

Wishing everyone a meaningful and joyful Juneteenth!

06/17/2026

🧺☀️ Tomorrow is International Picnic Day, and Brownwood has plenty of great spots to celebrate!

Grab a pizza from Pioneer Tap House , a charcuterie box from Grazed and Confused of Brownwood , or a sweet treat from Over The Rainbow Ice Cream , then head to the perfect picnic spot!

Whether you prefer the shade of Riverside Park, the railroad views from the Lehnis Railroad Museum's observation deck, or a picnic beside the historic 1080 Locomotive at the Margaret & Stuart Coleman Plaza, Brownwood offers plenty of great places to enjoy a meal outdoors.

Where's your favorite picnic spot in Brownwood?

06/16/2026

🎉 Celebrate America's 250th in Style!

Stop by the Brownwood Visitor’s Center Gift Shop and grab exclusive 250th anniversary merchandise!

From collectible mugs and fun stickers to those adorable ducks everyone’s loving 🦆, we’ve got the perfect souvenirs to commemorate this historic milestone.

🕒 Open Monday through Saturday, 9 AM – 4 PM
📍700 E Adams St, Brownwood, TX

See you soon! 👋

06/16/2026

Just a friendly heads-up! We will be closed on Friday, June 19th in observance of Juneteenth.

We’ll be back and ready to serve you with our regular hours 10am-4pm on Saturday, June 20th.

Wishing you all a safe, meaningful, and joyful Juneteenth!

06/15/2026

Supporting local businesses, listening to local musicians, hanging out for a summer evening as a community - This is Brownwood!

The lawn is going live THIS Sunday, June 21! ☀️🎶

Texas Soul artist Kirk House Music will headline the first Live on the Lawn this Sunday at 5pm at the Brownwood Event Center, with opening music from Hunter Brinson and Brandon Aguilar.

Bring Dad, bring your lawn chairs, and spend Father’s Day evening with free live music, food, drinks, and summer fun on the lawn.

Food and drink vendors will include:
Regios Tacos y Antojitos
Show Cones
Cinemaniacs Popcorn
Party on Wheels

06/15/2026

🤠 Looking for a little Western flair with your shopping trip? Make your way to Elite Ave. in the heart of downtown Brownwood! From trendy fashion and accessories to unique boutique finds, it's the perfect stop for anyone who loves a touch of cowgirl style. ✨

📍205 Fisk Ave, Brownwood, TX 76801

🕒 Hours: Tuesday–Saturdays: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Closed Sunday & Monday

Whether you're shopping for a new outfit, a special gift, or just browsing downtown, Elite Ave is worth a visit! 🤎

06/14/2026

On Flag Day, we proudly fly the Stars and Stripes at the Lehnis Railroad Museum & Visitor Center!

Our railroads helped build this great nation - carrying troops, supplies, and dreams across America during times of war and peace. Today we honor the flag that so many have fought to defend.

While you're exploring Brownwood this Flag Day, be sure to visit the Veterans Memorial, a beautiful place to reflect, remember, and honor those who served our nation.

06/13/2026

Local Flavor Recommendation: Smitty’s Bar-B-Q! 🔥

If you’re visiting Brownwood or just craving some authentic Texas BBQ, head over to Smitty’s Bar-B-Q - a longtime local favorite known for great smoked meats, friendly service, and that classic Texas taste!

📍 708 W Austin Ave, Brownwood, TX 76801
🕒 Open Monday–Saturday at 10:30 AM - Closed Sundays.

Who else loves Smitty’s? Drop your favorite thing on the menu below! 👇

06/11/2026

🌞 Don't miss your last chance this summer to shop local at the Artisan Market!

Head over on Saturday, June 13, from 9 AM to 1 PM to Shaw’s Marketplace for the final Artisan Market before it takes a summer break and returns this fall.

Browse an amazing selection of locally made goods, including 🍞 fresh baked treats, 🧼 handmade body care products, 🎨 artisan crafts, gifts, home décor, and so much more. It's the perfect opportunity to support local makers and find unique treasures close to home.

Whether you're stocking up on your favorites or discovering a new local vendor, this is one market you won't want to miss!

📍 Shaw's Marketplace
📅 Saturday, June 13
⏰ 9 AM – 1 PM

Shop small. Support local. See you there! ❤️

06/09/2026

🚂 Did someone say Trivia Tuesday?

All aboard for this week's railroad trivia challenge!

What is the person who drives a train called?

A) Pilot
B) Engineer
C) Captain
D) Operator

Drop your guess in the comments below! ⬇️

No cheating and no Googling! 😉 The answer appears on our story so keep an eye out!

Good luck, railroad fans! 🚂