Site of Robson's Castle and Columbus, Texas Meat and Ice Company

Robert Robson, (1804-1878), one of many Scotsmen seeking fortune in North America, came to the Texas Republic in 1839. On land he owned at this site, he built in 1839 a concrete "castle", using native lime and gravel. It had running water, pumped from the Colorado into a tank on the roof, then through wooden pipes to its many rooms. It also had a roof garden and an encircling moat with drawbridge. From Bastrop to Matagorda, it drew guests to champagne suppers, card parties, and balls. Undermined by 1869 flood, it became a ruin and was razed when site was put to new use in 1880's.

Columbus, Texas Meat & Ice Company built its 3-story plant on this site in 1884. It was then one of three packing houses in Texas. Established to process at place of origin, the plant could handle 125 cattle a day. Some of its beef went to Queen Victoria's London. Robert E. Stafford (1834-1890) a wealthy trail driver and rancher, veteran of Civil War service with famous Hood's Texas Brigade, owner of a private band and extensive Colorado County properties was president and major stockholder in the packing house, in the early 1890's, after Stafford died, the plant closed.

On State Highway 71 at south end of Colorado River Bridge.
1973