CAT SPRING — The Cat Spring Agricultural Society will have a new space for community events and agricultural education, thanks to a $25,000 grant from the Lower Colorado River Authority.
The Community Development Partnership Program grant, along with $250,750 in matching funds raised by the nonprofit ag ricultural society, will be used to complete construction on a new metal building that will serve as a community center.
The building will be located on the grounds of the historic Cat Spring Hall, a round dance hall built in 1902.
Mary O’Neal, treasurer for the Cat Spring Agricultural Society, said that a venue previously used for large events on the grounds has deteriorated.
“Many events and memories were created in the old building,” O’Neal said. “But a new structure is needed for the numerous activities we already host and hope to expand into. This was something we had always dreamed of, but it wasn’t until a few very generous people came forward with their donations and ideas that we really got going on the building.”
The new building is expected to hold up to 300 people. It will include restrooms, and will feature roll-up doors, patios and a barbecue area.
“With the multiple covered porch areas, everyone will be able to enjoy the outdoors rain or shine,” O’Neal said.
The Cat Spring Agricultural Society, established in 1856, is Texas’ oldest agricultural society. It supports agricultural education, seed trading and local farming.
Events hosted by the society draw visitors from Austin, Colorado, Fayette and Harris counties and across the state.
The society plans to use its new building for both community and private events, including festivals, family reunions and birthday parties, as well as agricultural educational seminars presented by the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, Gulf Coast Winegrowers Association, Austin County Livestock Association and the Texas Farm Bureau.
“Our community is very excited to have this new space,” O’Neal said. “There’s really nothing else in our community like this.”
