by SANDRA GRIZZLE
It is with heavy heart that we say goodbye to our good friend, Robert (Bob) Barton. Barton passed away on Saturday morning at the age of 82. Having been raised in the Buda area and living almost all his life in Hays County, he was a walking historian on the towns of Buda, Driftwood, Kyle, Mountain City, Manchaca and all points in between. His family roots go deep into Hays County and it was always such a delight to hear stories of his ancestors and his life growing up in Buda.
Working with Bob at the Free Press was also a great experience for all who had the pleasure of doing so. When he walked into the office, it came alive with a buzz of activity. Maybe it was his loud voice that made it possible for people to know he was there because the phones started ringing and folks walked in to just visit with Bob. He also had a way of getting you to do the work that he wanted done and somehow you did it for him so willingly.
It was his idea back in 1983 to form a senior citizens non-profit association for the Buda community. In March of 1984, by-laws were approved and Onion Creek Senior Citizens, Inc. was established. In 1986 Barton deeded a partnership interest in land he owned on Bartons Crossing to the senior citizens and traded adjoining land to the county, with the requirement that it be leased to the senior citizens. Hays County officials then agreed to move a metal building from the old San Marcos Hospital grounds to the site in Buda at the corner of Bartons Crossing and FM 2770. A portion of the metal building was to be used for the justice of the peace and law enforcement offices with the greater part to be the home of the senior citizens.
Last weekend the Onion Creek Senior Citizens moved into their newly constructed 6,750-square-foot facility built on the land Barton had donated to the seniors years ago. The senior center is located at 420 Bartons Crossing.
Thank you, Bob Barton, for being such a great friend.
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The Friends of the Buda Library will host the 21st annual membership meeting in the library meeting room on Sunday, Jan. 27 at 2 p.m. Guest speaker will be Buda Mayor Todd Ruge. Time will be given for the annual report along with awards to the volunteers and donors, gifts of funds to the library, election of the board, appreciation of the library staff and plans for the future. Yummy refreshments will be served and good company is guaranteed. Stop by and be a “friend.”
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Cimarron Rose Antiques in downtown Buda is celebrating their fourth year in business this month. Hope and John Sanford invite all to stop by for a visit at 218 Main Street and take advantage of the many anniversary specials.
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Birthday wishes go out to Pam and Mike Huckaby on Jan. 25; Lila Knight on Jan. 26; Wanda Townsend on Jan. 27; Hal Odell, Dick Respess, Jerry Sears and Judy Shelton on Jan. 28; Barbara Goodson on Jan.29.
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Buda Bulldogs of the past should mark their calendars for the annual reunion at the old Buda High School, which will be held Saturday, April 13. More to come.
