Museum Attractions
Nolan River School
Learning in the Past
The Nolan River School operated from 1855 to 1877. We were proud to reopen the school in 2012, nearly 140 years after it closed its doors. Not only is the Nolan River School a treasured piece of Johnson County History, it is also a window into a forgotten time.
We knew once the school was reopened that we wanted to offer a unique experience for children of this millennium to experience something completely foreign to how they learn today. This is why we are happy to transport students and teachers back in time and give them a day of learning in the Nolan River School. Here, we teach them how things were done in the mid 1800s, giving modern teachers and students a glimpse into times gone by.
For more information on setting this up for your school, please contact us.
Nolan River School Gallery
Museum Attractions
Step Back In Time & See What It Was Like To Live In The Wild West
Accessible by the public, the Chisholm Trail Outdoor Museum is an open area where visitors can learn about how the cattle drives along the trail impacted life and the history of the first county seat of Johnson County, Texas. Come check out the original courthouse, a stagecoach station, a blacksmith shop, and many more attractions on the banks of Lake Pat Cleburne on the Chisholm Trail. Be sure to check out the many Historical Markers along the Chisholm Trail for a fun driving adventure.
Big Bear Native American Museum
The Big Bear Native American Museum provides an invaluable educational experience for children and adults alike to...
LEARN MOREBlacksmith Shop
Back in the 1800s, every town had a blacksmith shop. We knew The Chisholm Trail Outdoor Museum...
LEARN MOREMule Barn
In the mid-1800s, horses were a hot commodity and were often stolen. Mules on the other hand?...
LEARN MOREAmazing HISTORIC Outdoor Museum and Big Bear Native American Museum! Makes you believe you are back in the 1800’s with Stagecoach, Blacksmith, School, Jail, Court House and more! ALL of the activities and events are incredible!
Really interesting. And outdoor walking tour that you do on your own. Lots of old building and things to see. I enjoyed myself. I would come back here with little kids and wander around. They have a picnic area where you can go with kids and spend the afternoon
When we got there, we started with the "Big Bear Native American Museum" on the premises of the Chisholm Trail Museum. With no disrespect to the Chisholm Trail Museum, the Big Bear Museum "stole the show" for both my wife and I. I've seen many Native American artifacts and collections and I believe this museum, while being relatively small, is one of the best curated collections I've ever seen.
Neat place - loved that you can explore on your own and how quiet it is!