George West: Live Oak County Courthouse

Large re-brick building with a white staircase and columns across the front

Live Oak County Courthouse (Leslie Walker)

A longhorn steer named Geronimo

Geronimo, ca. 1910 (Witte Museum)

George and Kitty West seated in a room with a fireplace, circa 1880s

George and Kitty West, 1880s at their Live Oak ranch house. (Victoria Regional History Center, VC/UHV Library)

Stuffed longhorn steer named Geronimo in a glassed-in hut with interpretive signs

Geronimo today at the Live Oak County Courthouse in George West. (Richard Hudson)

The courthouse is the permanent home of the legendary Geronimo – an early 20th century longhorn who represents the hardy “lead steers” responsible for keeping herds from running off. The display is available 24/7 and features several interpretive panels which tell the story of how longhorns helped develop and define Texas. The courthouse comes alive inside and out one weekend each November during the annual George West Storyfest. For over 25 years, this festival features performances by award-winning storytellers, cowboy poetry, music, and the Texas State Liar's Contest. 

For more on rancher George West and other notable figures from Live Oak County, visit the eclectic and informative Grace Armantrout Museum. The museum features a number of artifacts from the county’s history, hosts regular talks and workshops, and helps locals conduct genealogical research.

Live Oak County Courthouse

Grace Armantrout Museum

  • Hours: Wednesday-Friday 1 - 5 p.m., Saturday 12 – 4 p.m.
  • Admission: None
  • 1961 Hwy 281, George West, TX
  • 361-449-3325
  • Visit Website
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