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Welcome to The Barnhill Center at Historic Simon Theatre in Downtown Brenham, Texas.

Located halfway between Houston & Austin, The Barnhill Center
is a multi-purpose meeting and event center.

Take a Virtual Tour

Built-in 1925, in the grand architectural style of Beaux-Arts Classical Revival, the Simon Theatre provided a splendid setting for many theatrical performances, film screenings and ballroom dances. The James Simon family commissioned Houston architect Alfred C. Finn, whose career included designing a number of prominent Houston buildings as well as the San Jacinto Monument, to design the theatre for the community of Brenham. Today, after a meticulous million-plus dollar renovation, the glamour and grand style lives on for future generations in the newly named Barnhill Center at Historic Simon Theatre.

You will feel the charm of the old and appreciate the convenience of all the modern updates.
Truly — The Best of Both Worlds

Hasskarl Auditorium is a 321 seat theatre restored to its original beauty with modern-day technology like Digital Cinema Projection. It can be used for meetings, conferences, classic and independent films, live music and performances, and wedding ceremonies.

Picture of the Hasskarl Auditorium from the right side of the theater. View of empty theater seating and the stage.
Hasskarl Auditorium

Bullock Ballroom is available for meetings, galas, receptions, dances, and other memorable events. With 1925 wood floors, crystal and brass chandeliers, and gold Chiavari chairs, any event can be over the top elegant in this space designed for up to 220 people. State of the art audio/visual technology adds to the event.

Picture of tables decorated with chargers, centerpieces, silverware and glasses in the Bullock Ballroom
Bullock Ballroom

Morriss Hall is the newest addition to The Barnhill Center – completed in Spring 2020. Morriss Hall features state of the art projection and sound equipment in a modern and comfortable conference space complete with an open floor plan, carpeted flooring throughout the space, modern lighting features, and an airwall to divide the space if necessary – all with beautiful views of and easy access to Downtown Brenham. Additional details and photos coming soon!