Topic: Texas Courthouses

Activists are calling for court watchers to attend the trial of Mike Hanson on Wednesday, December 14th, at 9 a.m. at the Gonzales County Courthouse. Hanson faces charges of disturbing a meeting and resisting arrest following his protests against DEA civil asset forfeiture practices in Texas. Supporters characterize the arrest as a First Amendment violation and plan to gather at 414 St. Joseph Street to oppose the actions of the Texas justice system.

Mike Hanson discusses his property management business, which oversees approximately 60 low-end rental houses in Gonzales, many built by his grandfather. He describes the economic history of the town, transitioning from cattle to oil before a recent population decline. The conversation briefly touches on the architecture of the Lockhart courthouse and the total number of counties and sheriffs in the state of Texas.

Gonzales, Texas features a massive "Come and Take It" flag flying near the local courthouse, potentially one of the largest in the world. The town layout reflects its history as a former Mexican territory, organized around two distinct squares. Maintenance for the oversized flag reportedly costs the city approximately $40,000 every three months for replacement due to wind wear.