Anderson, Texas, is a charming town with a rich history located in Grimes County. Founded in the early 1830s, it is one of the oldest settlements in Texas, predating statehood. Anderson played a significant role during the Texas Revolution, and its story is closely intertwined with the iconic Grimes County Courthouse and the historic Fanthorp Inn.
Anderson’s history dates back to 1826 when the region was still a part of Mexico. It was initially known as “Fanthorp” after Henry Fanthorp, who settled the area and founded the Fanthorp Inn. In 1845, it was renamed Anderson in memory of Kenneth Lewis Anderson, who was the last vice president of the Republic of Texas. The town grew as pioneers and settlers moved to the area, attracted by fertile lands and the promise of a new life in the Republic.
Fun fact: Did you know that Anderson is known as the ‘Little Rome of Texas’ because it is settled on seven hills (just like Rome)?!
Today, Anderson, Texas, may be a small town, but its historical roots run deep. Visitors can explore its rich past through historic sites like the Grimes County Courthouse and immerse themselves in the stories of the early Texas pioneers who settled and shaped this charming community. From its founding in the 1830s to the present day, Anderson remains a testament to the enduring spirit of Texas history and heritage.
Planning to visit Anderson? It is located about 9 miles away from Navasota and makes an excellent day trip from Houston in the Brazos Valley. It is about 65 miles from the Houston Metro Area and takes about an hour to reach. Anderson also makes an excellent day trip from College Station, being just 28 miles away.
History and Significance of Anderson
Anderson’s heyday was in the mid 19th century. Take a walk around the sleepy town and imagine a bustling town and stagecoach stop in the day of the Republic of Texas. The town was home to the courthouse, sawmills, cotton gins, drugstore, mercantile house, blacksmith, and 5 hotels.
During the Civil War, Anderson manufactured handguns for the Confederacy at the local pistol factory. At this time, Anderson was the fourth most populous city In Texas. However, Anderson’s prominence and decline both is linked to the railroad.
The town was thriving well and supported a population of 3000 but growth stopped soon after. Local landowners refused to give land to Houston and Texas Central Railroad. The railroad bypassed Anderson and instead went through Navasota. Navasota’s growth was accompanied by Anderson’s decline and the town has never recovered from the loss. Modern day Anderson is home to a population of under 300.
Today, on a visit through the town you will see dilapidated buildings and forgotten churches.
Best Things to do in Anderson
We walked into Anderson on a sleepy January afternoon from Navasota. Most of the stores were closed and the town had an abandoned feel. And then, we saw the Grimes county Courthouse. I instantly fell in love with this beauty and we parked the car to see what other gems lie in this forgotten town. Turns out, quite a lot!
Historic Grimes County Courthouse
One of Anderson’s most significant historical landmarks is the Grimes County Courthouse, a striking building located at the heart of the town. Built in 1894, this courthouse stands as a testament to the enduring architectural beauty of the late 19th century.
It is the 5th courthouse to be built here and showcases a beautiful blend of Victorian and Edwardian architecture. The courthouse is three story tall and is built from red bricks and limestones. It has a striking double sided staircase that looks beautiful in the photos.
The courthouse has been restored in 2002 to its original grandeur and is equally beautiful from the inside. The district courtroom has a beautiful pressed tin ceiling. One of the famous trials to be held here was that of a Clyde Barrow gang member in the 1930s. The courthouse also has the reputation of being haunted, but we didn’t find any otherworldly creatures!
Anderson Historic District
Anderson was originally settled during the Spanish colonial rule and displays the Greek Revival and Victorian style of architecture. Several of Anderson’s buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places.
You can see them on mostly Fanthorp Street or Main Street within a block of the courthouse. Many are in the Palladian style of architecture. You can also spot unique things such as old rings used to secure horses on Main Street.
Anderson Baptist Church
While many historic buildings in town are deteriorating, the Anderson Baptist Church is in really great condition. It is built in Greek Revival style from native stone in 1855 and has an interesting facade.
The church was built by enslaved African Americans who worked on the plantations in the area. The church is photogenic and resembles rural churches in New England. It was here that the Texas Baptist Convention was formed.
Historic Fanthorp Inn
Fanthorp Inn State Historic Site in Anderson is a true gem of historical significance. This beautifully preserved inn offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the charm and hospitality of a bygone era.
Built in the mid-19th century by English immigrant Henry Fanthorp, the inn served as a critical stop along the Old San Antonio Road, a major trade route connecting the Mexican border to East Texas. The inn was strategically located, making it a popular resting place for travelers and merchants. It also served as the county post office for a time, making it a hub of activity in the area.
The Fanthorp Inn’s architecture reflects the simple yet elegant style of the period. With its wide front porch, white picket fence, and sprawling gardens, the inn exudes an inviting charm. Visitors can explore the various rooms, each impeccably furnished with period-appropriate items that transport them back to the 19th century.
The inn’s well-preserved structure offers a glimpse into the daily lives of those who passed through its doors including notable guests such as Sam Houston. You can not only tour the inn but also ride the vintage stagecoach on ‘Stagecoach Days’ event.
Fanthorp Family Cemetery
Across the street from Fanthorp Inn, you can see the Historic Fanthorp Family Cemetery. The pioneer Henry Fanthorp and his wife Rachel are buried here. They both died in the yellow fever pandemic that swept Anderson and neighboring Navasota in 1867.
Kenneth Lewis Anderson, the last vice president of the Republic of Texas, is also buried in the Fanthorp Family Cemetery. Several other prominent citizens are also buried here, making the cemetery a must visit for Texas history and lore lovers.
Historic Anderson Park buildings and museums
The thing that surprised me most about Anderson was the Anderson Historical Park. This little gem is barely advertised and is so easy to miss! It is home to a variety of the Republic of Texas era buildings and cabins and just amazing to visit!
One of the popular buildings is the Steinhagen Log Cabin Museum, built prior to 1860 by slaves. Other buildings in the park include a house, museum, and the Boggess general store. Another gem to see in the park is a pre World War I railroad truss metal bridge. A WWI memorial is also located in the park.
Picnic tables are also located in the park and it is a good place to let kids run free. Restoration of the structures in the park is still an ongoing activity. The park is located at the corner of Main St. and FM 1774.
Confederate Memorial Park
On Main Street, you can find the Confederate Memorial Plaza/Park. This park is dedicated to the Confederate Civil War veterans from Grimes County. The park has a beautiful bronze statue of a soldier with a Confederate flag flying behind the statue.
The soldier represents the infantry Grimes County Greys that fought in the Civil War. Several benches as well as informational plaques that highlight the hardships of the Confederate soldiers during the war are also present in the park. The park has nice mature trees giving plenty of shade and is good for a quick stroll.
Antique Shopping
If you love unique treasures, yard ornaments, and period furniture, then go antiquing in Anderson. Courthouse Antiques, maintained by the former mayor of Anderson, is a good place to stop as is Borski’s antiques. We also saw many Civil war books in the stores.
Yankee Doodle Donuts
We love supporting local businesses in small towns. The day that we went, we didn’t see many eateries open but the Yankee Doodle Donuts shop caught our eye. They have a nice selection of kolaches, croissants, and donuts.
Kott’s Cafe – Awesome Lunch!
If you are dining in Anderson, then visit Kott’s Cafe. They have excellent breakfast and lunch. Their hamburgers are especially tasty. They have a nice selection of homemade pies as well.
Attend special events in the town
Anderson may be small and forgotten, but it holds many special events and activities throughout the year. Visitors can attend the Texas Trek in April and Juneteenth in June. It also holds a County Fair that is great fun for all ages.
You can also visit Washington-on-Brazos Historic Site and the Six Flags over Texas Monument while you are visiting Anderson and Grimes County area.
The town of Anderson holds a special place in Texas history and a must visit for all history lovers. Have you visited this small Texan town and its eclectic courthouse? Let us know in comments below.