Most people have never heard of Cleburne, Tx. When I get the question “where in Texas are you from,” and I answer “Cleburne,” I usually have to follow up with an explanation that it’s about 30-45 minutes south of Fort Worth or somewhere between Fort Worth and Waco for them to understand the approximate area that is my hometown. There have been a few that have shocked me by exclaiming, “oh, I know where Cleburne’s at,” just as it may surprise others that I would include it in my Wanderlust Worthy Wednesday line up.
While it is true that Cleburne is full of small town gossip, low paying jobs, bad roads, and too many days of unbearable humidity; it also has beauty and childhood memories I can appreciate. From what I’ve seen on social media in recent years, it seems that long-time residents are making improvements by starting new restaurants, shopping venues, and creating social gatherings through concerts, events, etc. It makes me happy to see some things changing for the better, for my family and friends who are still living there.
Cleburne may not be wanderlust worthy for most people, but I get a sense of nostalgia when I return for visits. I remember times spent at Lake Pat Cleburne, Cleburne State Park, the old skating rink, the movie theater, the local parks, the library, the very tiny mall, the Yellow Jackets Football Stadium, and of course the schools where I met some of my favorite people. I remember complaining about there not being much to do around town when I was younger, but as I became interested in photography, I realized there was more to the town than just its limited amount of activities. It could be fun, I just had to mature enough to appreciate it.
If you’re ever in Cleburne, I recommend visiting (swimming is not recommended, but there are people that do it) Lake Pat Cleburne at sunset or even watching a thunderstorm from afar before it reaches the lake. If you like hiking, swimming (if you don’t mind mud), or paddle boating there are plenty of trails, swimming spaces, and the ability to rent paddle boats at Cleburne State Park. For a history lesson and interesting recreated historical scenes, visit The Chisolm Trail Outdoor Museum. For a leisurely walk and nice scenery away from the busier streets, Buffalo Creek has a walking trail and some decent backgrounds for photos along the side of it.
Cleburne and its residents are part of why I am who I am. My love for writing began in 4th grade at Cooke Elementary School. Several of the people that still reside there helped give me my start in Photography. Some of my favorite photographs include Cleburne residents and/or scenery. I appreciate the neighbors, friends, teachers, family, and environment that influenced who I have become. Though I’ve lived in various states across the country, I still carry bits and pieces of my hometown in my heart and mind through every new adventure and every new level of growth.
