THE JOURNEY CONTINUES: Erin Abel
Editor’s note: This is a revised version of last week's column. The Daily Record is republishing the column due to multiple name misspellings. We apologize for and confusion this might have caused.
My journey this week takes me to meet Erin Abel, a native “RISM” — Raised In San Marcos. She is a local visionary and entrepreneur. And much of the credit — or blame — goes to Herold “Buddy” & Joyce Abel Jr., her parents.
Buddy, as a highlyesteemed welder, created spectacular and long-lasting works for both Texas State University and Aquarena Springs Amusement Park. Joyce was a brilliant fashion designer whose clients include Norma Strait, wife to country music legend George Strait.
Abel graduated from the Schreiner University in 1991. Her degree in Psychology has served her well in introducing two signature societal entries into the local community.
After the death of her brother Larry Horton in 2016, destiny gave her the opportunity to purchase three houses, that were then known as “Freedom House.” As her first act, Erin renamed the homes in honor of her brother. Horton House is dedicated to serve as “a spiritual, sober-living facility, which provides structure, accountability and support for residents to live a life free from drugs and alcohol.” Located at 310/320/322 Smith Lane, it is managed by Ernest and Shanna Lott — they can be contacted at 512-667- 9298 or at housemanager. hortonhouse@gmail.com. With having both the experience and dedication to sobriety, the Lott’s ensure a safe and comfortable environment for the residents. Sundays are dedicated to an AA meeting in the morning and a Bible Study at night.
Abel’s wedding to Kyle Pettey, on Sept. 1, 2018, was held at her family farm on Hunter Road. This event inspired Erin’s second enterprise — opening a wedding venue and event center, the Texas Rock House. Her grandparents built the family farm in the 1940s. They covered the exterior of the Rock Farmhouse with stones from 37 states — the showpiece being a limestone rock that her grandpa carved into the shape of Texas, on the exterior of the fireplace.
“When grandpa stopped farming, my daddy converted the barn into his welding shop, where he created many metal masterpieces,” Abel said. “ When my Dad retired, the barn sat empty for years. When it came time to plan my wedding, I knew there was no other place to have it.”
“It just felt right,” she said. “We wanted other couples to experience the love and history that are such a part of this place. What better way to do that, than to let other families create their own wonderful memories here.”
Thus, Texas Rock House was born. Every detail reflects her love for the home and barn. Its rustic elegance and its country charm are a tribute to her family’s heritage.
In the pasture, live two “miniature” steers – if you can call 1,000 lb. animals miniature. Buddy, a longhorn, and Larry, a Brahma, are kept company by two barn cats, Zedd and Roscoe, as well as many songbirds. The on-site manager Michelle Hildebrand keeps everything running smoothly and looking beautiful — Hildebrand can be contacted at info@texasrockhouse.com or 512- 667-7667 with any questions.
Due to the COVID-19, rescheduling the April-May weddings has been challenging, according to Abel.
“I don’t know how I could have handled all the details without Ernest, Shanna and Michelle,” Abel said. “However, I believe everything happens for a reason.” In keeping with this
In keeping with this belief, Abel’s life verse is:
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)
As a member of First Presbyterian Church in San Marcos, and a mother, Abel endeavors to live her life by this conviction.
