A small town with a big history; Helotes--20 miles northwest of downtown San Antonio--was named for the Spanish word elotes; or corn on the cob. So extensive were the fields of corn along its namesake creek; a Spanish official in 1723 called the area el Puerto de los Olotes; or Corncob Pass. When settlers later arrived; few ancient cornfields remained. Situated along Bandera Road; the town became a stagecoach stop; and a post office was established in 1873. Nevertheless; the settlement remained rural for the next 100 years. Helotes; known as a place to "let down yer hair and kick up yer heels;" solidified its reputation in 1946; when John T. Floore Country Store; a dance hall and concert venue for top-rated country musicians; opened for business in downtown Helotes. The annual Cornyval Festival; inaugurated in 1966; continues this tradition. Incorporated in 1981; the town provides a verdant and hilly escape from the city.
#1322239 in eBooks 2005-08-03 2005-08-03File Name: B009AI2PCE
Review
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Portaland MI - from industrial to retirement townBy TammyI visited Portland. MI. walked around the area. and became interested in knowing more about the past. The book is an excellent collection of photos of a Portland that is now largely gone. replaced by a scenic setting perhaps idea for retired people. or people wanting a small town atmosphere. The book shows the Portland that once exploited the large forests that once existed in the state. including a furniture industry.2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Excellent photographic historyBy Austin BlairThis book contains hundreds of outstanding historic photographs of Portland. Michigan. Highly recommended for any fan of Michigan history or local history. What really stands out are the many candid photos of townspeople from the 1890s. The camera captured them smiling and enjoying life (not stiff and stoic like we tend to think of people from that era).Overall. a great book!0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. The Portland Area: 1869-1939By Russell J. BrandsenI have lived in Portland Michigan all my life. but until I purchased this book did I find out the incredible history of my town.
