Welcome to our next History Hotspot on our Historic Walking Tour of Downtown Rockdale. Where the Citizens Bank stands today was home to several long time businesses before a fire in January 1974 irreparably burned several of the buildings resulting in their demolition.  

The source of the fire which damaged the buildings on the SW corner was the Singer’s Grill, a legendary dining spot in Rockdale known for its delicious food and warm atmosphere. This beloved establishment has long been a favorite gathering place for locals, offering not just great meals but also a rich history of entertainment and community spirit.

Singer’s Grill was originally owned by Charlie Moore, a man known for his love of singing. Charlie would sing at the drop of a hat and even organized a community chorus, making music a central part of the Grill’s identity. This passion for music and community gatherings helped establish Singer’s Grill as a beloved local hotspot.

In addition to its memorable food, Singer’s Grill featured a live country-western band every morning. These performances were broadcast in a 30-minute session over KTAE in Taylor, bringing the lively atmosphere of Singer’s Grill into homes across the area. This unique blend of dining and live entertainment made Singer’s Grill a standout venue in Rockdale.

In the early 1950s, the Grill was purchased by Tommy and Vera Thompson, who continued the tradition of excellent food and vibrant entertainment. Under their ownership, Singer’s Grill maintained its reputation as a central hub for community interaction and enjoyment.

As you stand here, think about the countless meals enjoyed and memories made within these walls. From Charlie Moore’s impromptu singing to the Thompsons' dedication to maintaining a lively and welcoming venue, Singer’s Grill has been more than just a restaurant—it has been a cornerstone of community life in Rockdale.

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In a 1910’s to early 1920s photo, and corroborated by the 1925 Sanborn Map, prior to becoming Singer’s Grill, the Dixie Theatre operated at the SW corner of Ackermann and Cameron.  This beloved local theater was a cultural cornerstone for Rockdale, hosting movies and community events for many years.  Historical records unearthed by the Rockdale Reporter reveal this location in operation as far back as 1915, albeit under different ownership. 

In April 1929, Mr. & Mrs CW Matson introduced sound to the theater, ushering in a new era of cinematic experiences for Rockdale's residents. This innovation was a significant milestone, transforming the silent film era into a dynamic sound-filled spectacle.  Having moved it next door to a new building, on May 26, 1938, the vibrant marquee lights of the new Dixie Theater illuminated Rockdale’s entertainment scene, captivating audiences for decades to come.

Mr. Matson’s influence extended beyond Rockdale's borders as he ventured into theater operations in neighboring towns, including Giddings, Caldwell, and Thorndale. His passion for bringing entertainment to communities knew no bounds, and his theaters became beloved fixtures in these locales, enriching the cultural fabric of the region.

Mr. Matson operated the Dixie for many years until 1968 when Harold Parsley purchased the Dixie Theater (as well as the Drive in where Tractor Supply is located today). The town's beloved Dixie Theater continued to be a source of joy, laughter, and cherished memories for another decade.  

The Dixie Theater, with its rich history and cultural significance, remains an indelible chapter in Rockdale's story. It serves as a reminder of the dedication to the arts and the enduring impact of cinema on small-town America. Though the theater's physical presence may have faded, the memories it created continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to experience its cinematic magic.

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Further west, where the drive thru parking is located, Henne & Co Hardware was a two-story building which housed several businesses including, prior to 1936, the Henne & Meyer Funeral Home. At this location they also built caskets. Later in the 1970s Walker Burnett Pharmacy was located in the Henne building as well. 
East of the Henne Hardware building was the Red & White Grocery as well as a Bank. 

On September 1, 1977, the Rockdale Reporter published poignant photographs capturing the demolition of the Dixie Theater.  The Dixie, the columned bank building, Red & White Grocery, and Henne building all sold their properties to Citizens Bank and were demolished to make way for a new modern bank. While this was an end of an era, it signaled a transformation in the town's landscape. These images serve as a visual reminder of the changing times and the bittersweet farewell to a cherished cultural institution.