The Old Coupland Inn And Dancehall, Coupland, TX

© 2010 Bruno Michel

There are still quite many dancehalls in Texas, those historic buildings that were erected some onehundred plus years ago. But it's getting more and more difficult to find investors once one of these locations changes ownership. Chances are, that the building just sits there rotting until it's finally being demolished. Most of the existing dancehalls offer bars, finger-food and - of course - a dancefloor.

A slightly different place is The Old Coupland Inn And Dancehall. Situated between Georgetown and Austin, this is a combination of Fullsize Restaurant, hotel and dancehall. And that's what makes it attractive for it's many visitors.

Owner Rick D. Smitherman, a former finance expert, has realized his dream with the acquisition of this property a few years ago. Together with his partners, he has since undertaken constant renovation and is making sure that his guests can enjoy the full flavor of this historic site. Rick: „The building was erected in 1902. There were many uses to it over the years and they even shot movies here. Among other businesses, the dancehall hosted a farmer's market, the restaurant was a pharmacy and today's bed and breakfast is said to once have been a bordello.

Rick has five hotel rooms ready and two more are under construction. During his first year at the location, he concentrated on major but important renovation. New roofs, new air conditioning and most of all a new kitchen for the restaurant were his priorities. He also has his living quarters in the building so he can always be present for his guests and musicians.

How do you come across such a location, being a finance expert from East Texas? Rick: "I got a call from a friend who asked me to help evaluating the value of this place and also help him to put it on the market. It was clear what the building value was, but not what the entire property combination was worth. After some calculations I decided to invest my own money. What are his priorities?`Rick:" I want quality above all. Quality in the food, the music and also in the bed-and-breakfast area."

He managed to make the dancehall a welcomed stop for pretty much all the fancy names in Texas Music. While he's concentrating on the concert schedule and marketing, his team is managing the restaurant and the hotel. The dancehall has a capacity of some 900 people and the restaurant seats a good hundred guests.

With this concept, Rick and his team can be sure that people will find their way to Coupland and his venue.

After all, it's only some 20 miles off Interstate 35.