Early one evening as I was driving in College Station, over by Hensel Park, I caught the golden glow of the sun on the pavilion out of the corner of my eye.  I was so awed by the glow that I turned around and went back so that I could take a picture.  As I pulled into the parking lot, I found myself wondering if this was one of the oldest parks in College Station. 

 The park, which is on South College Avenue, is owned and operated by Texas A&M University.   It is very convenient to the area that is frequently referred to as the Married Student Housing (A&M owned apartments).   It wouldn't surprise me if most people that live in Bryan and College Station are not even aware of the pavilion's existence - even though it is the distinguishing characteristic of the park.   In addition to the pavilion, the park also has a walking trail, lots of room for a game of Frisbee or football , and a play ground area. 

 Now is this pavilion REALLY beautiful? 

 At first, I found myself almost hoping that I wouldn't get caught taking the pictures.  My friends that work on the A&M campus would likely think that I've lost all sense of reasoning.  There are numerous other places on campus that are possibly more "photo-worthy."      

 As I snapped pictures of the pavilion, memories of time spent in the park over the years came back. 

•  As a girl, I remember picnics on the last day of school at Hensel Park.  The pavilion's cover amplified the sounds of school kids laughing and playing.  I also faintly remember people trying climb onto the roof.  I remember my Dad flying kites with us out in the big field.      

•  As a college student, I used to play ball with my dog in the field.  I discovered that the park also had short trails through the woods.  Nothing too spectacular, but it was a nice diversion for that afternoon. 

• My grandparents lived about a mile from Hensel Park.  When my boys were little, my grandpa would regularly take them to the playground there.  The old see saws, swing sets, and merry go round type things have long since been replaced.   I didn't even think to take pictures of the existing playground.  Maybe it is because the playground equipment is new and modern. 

• Over the years, I've driven by that park millions of times on the way to my Grandparent's house, on the way to the feed store that was located in downtown Bryan, and on the way to my first real job at the Bryan Police Department.  

Is the Hensel Park Pavilion Really Beautiful?    As I was taking pictures, I concluded this park and it's pavilion are part of my hometown.  The pavilion is part of my memories.  It has always been there.  I hope nothing ever happens to it.  Yes, I think it is beautiful - when the light hits it just right.     

Written and posted by

Sondra Meyer CPA/Real Estate Broker

United Country Brazos Valley Realty

1275 Flying Ace Ranch Circle

College Station TX 77845

979-575-2700

For professional real estate advisory services,

Call or email Sondra Meyer at

sondra77845@yahoo.com