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We plan to develop The Dryer into a venue with a Museum, community play area (green space), children's playground, and Katy Beer Garden with food and drinks. Please follow our journey with exciting project on our facebook page.
Rice Dryer History
1943
First Concrete Rice Dryer in Texas
In 1943 J.V. Cardiff & Sons started building the 1st concrete rice dryer in Texas. This was the 1st rice dryer in Texas which still stands facing US Hwy-90. There is an underground tunnel under this building spanning the entire length of the silo!
1945
Built Second Rice Dryer in 1945
Business was doing well, the Cardiffs decided to expand and build their second concrete rice dryer with twice the capacity.
1966
Tallest Rice Dryer in the Country
In 1966, the Cardiffs hired Borton Company from Hutchinson, KS to build their largest and tallest rice dryer. When it was completed, it stood tall at 177 feet and was the tallest rice dryer in the Country. It is still the tallest structure in Katy, Richmond and Rosenberg.
1986 - 1993
Last Rice Production
According to one of the Cardiff descendants, the last rice production was in 1987. Since then, the entire property has sat neglected and without a purpose.
2021
Local Developer + Katy Heritage Society
The property has transferred ownership a few times since 1986. But, it was never again used to dry rice and there was never any significant development.
In 2021, a local developer in Katy bought the property and began working with Katy Heritage Society (the oldest non-profit in Katy) to restore and bring life back to The Dryer.
2022
Re-imagining a History Landmark
While on-going preservation of the buildings, we have been busy with planning, architectural work and engineering.
Please follow our project on our facebook page.
