Library

This newly renovated home to the Mary Elizabeth Tinsley Texas History Center, DuBose Collection, Vickie Bushong Collection, and the Henlsey Hurt arrowhead collection.

Looking for a welcoming and inspiring space to expand your knowledge and dive into the world of literature?  Our library offers a vast collection of books, magazines, and digital resources to satisfy all interests and ages. Beyond our impressive collection, we pride ourselves on providing a warm and welcoming environment for all. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is always available to help you find exactly what you’re looking for and provide recommendations to enhance your reading experience.

We also offer a variety of programs and events for all ages, from book clubs and author readings to children’s storytimes and technology workshops. Our community is at the heart of everything we do, and we strive to create a space where everyone feels welcome and engaged.

Triumphal Entry Into Gonzales

Imagination and history come together in a breathtaking mural by lifelong artist Ida McGarity. “Triumphal Entry Into Gonzales” features a cast of characters from Texas history, McGarity’s own family, and religious imagery rendered across 14 interlocking tiles. The centerpiece of the mural is the Gonzales Come and Take It parade, featuring notable historical figures like Antonio López de Santa Anna and the Texian rebels from the Texas Revolution. McGarity’s ethereal vision captures the parade in motion as paradegoers, including McGarity’s parents, turn their backs to watch it pass. McGarity’s father grew up on the land where the library now stands, making “Triumphal Entry Into Gonzales” a triumphant return home for him. Come experience the magic of the mural and the rich history of Gonzales at the library.

 The Hensley Hurt Collection

Step into the past and discover the rich history of Dewville, Gonzales County with the Hensley Hurt Collection! This remarkable exhibit features hundreds of arrowheads and artifacts unearthed in the 1930s by Mr. Hensley Hurt, offering a fascinating glimpse into the lives and cultures of the Native American tribes who once inhabited the region.

The Hensley Hurt Collection showcases a wide range of artifacts, including pottery, stone tools, and projectile points, each with its own unique story to tell. Visitors will be captivated by the intricate details of each piece, expertly crafted by ancient hands and imbued with meaning and symbolism.

This exhibit is a true testament to the rich cultural heritage of Gonzales County, and a must-see destination for history enthusiasts and artifact collectors alike. The Hensley Hurt Collection is free to the public and open during library hours, making it an easy addition to your itinerary when exploring the area.

Vickie Bushong Collection

The Vickie Bushong Collection along with a few pieces of the Henson Collection are the largest private collection of Texas Revolutionary Documents on display.

Vickie Lea Sanford Bushong was born on June 12, 1949 in Houston, TX. She was a graduate of Auburn University where she obtained a degree in political science-public administration. She was married to Dr. Rex D. Bushong for over 48 years. She lived her life to the fullest and loved to surround herself with many friends. She also loved to host parties and her favorite last two were western dances featuring the Weldon Henson Band. Vickie inspired Weldon’s love for Texas history and helped him start a collection of his own.

Vickie was very proud of her Texas Heritage as a sixth generation Texan. Her family history dates back to Cynthia Ann Parker and Quanha Parker. Because of her family history, she became an avid collector of early maps of Texas, documents, currency and photographs from the Republic of Texas and of Quanah Parker. Vickie loved the town of Gonzales and prior to her passing on June 5, 2018, she chose the Robert Lee Brothers, Jr. Memorial Library in Gonzales to display her incredible collection.

DuBose Gun & Militaria Collection

Our library is proud to present a remarkable exhibit of pistols, rifles, holsters, military memorabilia, helmets, and more, all curated from the personal collection of Charles DuBose.

With over 700 rare and historic pieces on display, DuBose’s collection spans over 41 countries, featuring a range of unique pistols, rifles, and military artifacts. Some of the rare gems in the collection include the Belgian Paraguyan and the South African Mamba – both incredibly rare and coveted pieces with fascinating histories.

This exhibit is housed in the library’s old bank vault, providing the perfect setting for a display that truly captures the imagination. Visitors will be fascinated by the incredible range of weapons, with some dating back over a century. The exhibit also features custom-made display cases donated by Blue J Woodworking, showcasing each piece to its fullest potential.

The Charles DuBose exhibit is free to the public and open during library hours, making it a must-see destination for tourists and locals alike. With a dedication ceremony featuring the collector himself on May 28th, visitors can experience this amazing display firsthand and discover the stories behind each unique artifact.

Don’t miss your chance to experience this one-of-a-kind exhibit of firearms and military memorabilia at the Robert L. Brothers Memorial Library. Plan your visit today and discover the incredible history that lies behind each piece in this remarkable collection.

The Goliad Collection

Step into history and witness the artifacts that tell the story of one of the most tragic events in Texas history at the Goliad Collection exhibit. This remarkable exhibit features clothing buttons and musket balls that are believed to have been recovered from one of the massacre sites of Fannin’s command, providing a haunting glimpse into the brutal reality of the Goliad Massacre.

The Goliad Collection showcases a range of artifacts, each with its own unique story to tell. Visitors will be struck by the haunting beauty of the delicate buttons, each one a testament to the lives lost and the courage of those who fought for Texas independence. The musket balls offer a tangible connection to the chaos and violence of the battle, giving visitors a visceral sense of the danger and uncertainty faced by the soldiers of Fannin’s command.

This exhibit is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for Texas independence and a must-see destination for history enthusiasts and anyone who wants to pay tribute to the brave men who fought and died at Goliad. The Goliad Collection is free to the public and open during library hours, making it an easy addition to your itinerary when exploring the area.

 The Sam Houston Lithograph

Step into the past and witness history come to life with the Sam Houston Lithograph exhibit at the Robert L. Brothers Memorial Library in Gonzales. This stunning piece of art, created by Francis D’Avignon in 1848, is one of only three known to exist, with the other two housed in prestigious collections at the Library of Congress and the National Portrait Gallery Collection, Smithsonian Institution.

The Sam Houston Lithograph is a rare and valuable piece of Texas history, providing a fascinating insight into the life and times of one of the state’s most iconic figures. This remarkable work of art captures the essence of Houston’s strength, determination, and vision, making it a must-see destination for anyone interested in Texas history or the arts.

The exhibit features the Sam Houston Lithograph in all its glory, surrounded by additional information and artifacts that shed light on the historical context in which it was created. Visitors will be transported back in time as they explore the exhibit and gain a deeper understanding of this pivotal moment in Texas history.

Visit the Gonzales, Texas Library today and discover all that we have to offer. Whether you’re seeking knowledge, entertainment, or simply a quiet place to relax and escape, we have everything you need to enrich your life and broaden your horizons.

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Visitor Guide

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