Tinkerbell's Travels

May 25, 2023

We decided to take a day off from the road and explore Fredericksburg. One of the very many wonderful perks or being “job-free”: your time is YOUR time. You can spend it how you wish.

And we wished to spend it exploring a small, Texas town that had a bit of Austin-vibe without the Austin-cost 😉

Our exploration goals: I wanted to hit some art guilds and galleries and Jay wanted to explore the World War II Museum.

During World War II, Admiral Nimitz was the Commander in Chief of the US Pacific Fleet and oversaw the Allied air, land, and sea forces. He was one of the leading experts on submarines. In fact, he helped develop our nation’s underway replenishment techniques, which allowed the US fleet to operate away from port for long periods of time. The advancements were decisive in our Pacific victories during the War.

Admiral Nimitz was born in 1885 in Fredericksburg, TX; his grandfather’s hotel is now the National Museum of the Pacific War.

Unfortunately, the museum was closed for restoration during our stay. We had visited the museum the last time we were in town but were looking forward to seeing the new exhibits.

We made the best of the situation: we visited the adjoining grounds of the Japanese Garden of Peace.

The Garden is a gift from the people of Japan as a symbol of the friendship and respect between Admiral Nimitz and Admiral Togo. It was a beautiful place to stop, be away from the bustle of the city, and admire how mankind uses natural elements to create a space for inner reflection.

The friendship between then-Ensign Nimitz and Admiral Togo started when they met in Tokyo at a reception honoring Admiral Togo and his victory at the Battle of the Sea of Japan in 1905. This friendship continued through Admiral Togo’s death in May 1934, where then-Captain Nimitz and his entire crew marched in Admiral Togo’s funeral. Admiral Nimitz was also instrumental in saving Admiral Togo’s flagship, the Mikasa, from destruction after World War II.

The Garden was peaceful and sobering… reflecting on the lives lost, our feeling of gratitude for those who protect(ed) our country and appreciating the crossroad of cultures the Garden represents.

After our garden stroll, we celebrated our freedom by opening our wallet and helping the Fredericksburg economy 😉

Rustlin’ Robs was a fun place to wander and entertain our taste buds and juvenile minds 😉

Then we continued our entertainment by supporting some not-so-starving artists at the local artists’ cooperative.

The handmade, custom leather shop was a delight for the eyes and nose (I love the smell of leather)!

After a long, hot, muggy day walking the streets of Fredericksburg, we returned to our campsite.

And shared some Fredericksburg treats with our faithful companions…

Now, we’re on the road again! Heading non-stop to Crosby, TX, to see the grandkids!

---