The Stories

White Morpha Fine Art Restoration

714 Chestnut St. Bastrop, TX 78602   |  map »

During the fires, I was evacuated and moved into my Gallery until I was allowed back in my home. Since the fire, people have been coming into my shop to compare prices for insurance re-imbursement of antiques or art they have lost. I keep trying to get more antique furniture brought in because people have been asking for specific antique pieces they have lost in the fire.

I have a couple from Wimberley that spends their days hunting for these items for clients and then delivers them to my location.

I also have 3 pieces I'm working on to restore. They were found in the ash. Some pieces were brought in before the fire and are the only things people have left.

My heart goes out to the people who are now really feeling the daily loss of their memories of sentimental things and comforts of their home.

- Jessica Lee Miller

Wild Thyme Herb Shop

1022 Main St. Bastrop, TX 78602. T: 512.284.1152   |  map »

Wild Thyme Herb Shop is a locally owned business, which opened in the summer of 2010. Owners Nancy and Don Perriello have been in the Bastrop area since 2000, when they were drawn to the beautiful pine trees in the park area. Their 10 acres were full of pines, junipers and oaks until Labor Day, Sept 5, 2011, when the Bastrop Wildfires blazed through.

Don is on the Heart of the Pines Volunteer Fire Department and was in the fire truck that fateful day, warning neighbors to get out. An act that saved many lives.

Nancy is an herbalist whose vision is to provide the highest quality organic and wild-crafted herbs, essential oils, body care products, teas and herbal blends and food-based supplements, as well as herbal education, to the community. They are rebuilding and plan to stay in Bastrop a long time. So stop by their shop at 1022 Main St, Bastrop.

Pines and Prairies Land Trust

106 Conference Dr. Bastrop, TX 78602. T: 512.308.1911   |  map »

Pines and Prairies Land Trust is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving farm, ranch and wildland in Bastrop County. We operate several nature preserves, sponsor free nature lessons, provide information and support to landowners and protect farms and ranches with a special “tool” called a Conservation Easement.

We were not affected by the terrible fires, the trees are huge, the river is accessible and lovely and the trails are easy. We would love to remind folks that Bastrop County is still green and beautiful!

Just 10 minutes from downtown Bastrop, they can visit our peaceful, green and lush riverside wildlife refuge.

Do your kids and dogs need a place to run? Come hike in an ancient forest along the mighty Colorado River at the Colorado River Refuge (CRR). You will experience majestic old growth forest, the smooth clear water of the Colorado River, unusual rock formations and more. The trails are wide and easily traveled. Pick from the lush river bottom trails at the downstream end of the CRR or the more open and breezy upland trails at the upstream end of the CRR. You will not hear traffic noise or see any houses. This is truly a nature experience!

The CRR is a birder’s paradise, a child’s wonderland and a parent’s dream. Dogs and mountain bikes are welcome. There is even a trail for mobility-impaired folks. Maps to the CRR are available at the Bastrop Chamber office or online at www.pplt.org.