Region: Prairies and Lakes
One of Texas' oldest settlements, first called Mina, the town's name was changed about 1837 to honor Felipe Enrique Neri, Baron de Bastrop, a prominent Dutch nobleman—or so the colonists thought.
Actually, he was a flamboyant impostor whose real name was Philip Hendrik Nering Bogel, born not of Holland's nobility, but in Dutch Guiana of ordinary Dutch parents. Appointed a tax collector after he and his parents returned to Holland, he was accused of embezzlement and fled the country.
Appearing in Texas as Baron de Bastrop in 1805, he obtained a colony grant, established a freighting business and was appointed second alcalde of San Antonio in 1810. He was a primary negotiator with the government of Mexico for Stephen F. Austin's original Anglo-American colony. He was elected representative to the Mexican state of Coahuila (which included Texas), secured passage of a further immigration act and was instrumental in establishing the port of Galveston.
Of impressive physical stature, dashing and energetic, the counterfeit baron's enterprises resulted in little profit. At his death in 1827, he did not leave enough funds for burial expenses; fellow legislators contributed the cost. In Holland, unclaimed for 20 years, was a reward of 1,000 gold ducats for return of the accused embezzler.
More than 130 historic structures in Bastrop are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, with 31 displaying a Texas Medallion marker. Main street is lined with century-old structures housing antique shops, restaurants and specialty stores.
The Bastrop Advertiser, the oldest weekly newspaper in Texas was established in 1853.
Main Street and Fisherman's Park on the scenic Colorado River offer great places to picnic, fish and canoe. The old historic Iron Bridge crossing the river has been converted to a park above the Colorado River. Bastrop has four 18-hole golf courses to challenge golfers at all skill levels. Horseback riding is also available at various facilities.
Bed & breakfast accommodations are offered in many historic buildings.