Austin In 1839 five mounted scouts ranged over a broad area of wilderness seeking a site for a new capital city for the Republic of Texas. Location on north bank of Colorado River was chosen, where rich blacklands meet scenic hills. Site occupied at the time by a four-family settlement called Waterloo. Name honors Stephen F. Austin, the "Father of Texas." About first of Sept. 1839, archives and furniture of Texas government were transported from Houston to Austin by 50 ox-drawn wagons.■ Institutions of higher learning include Austin Community College, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, Concordia Lutheran College, Episcopal Theological Seminary of the Southwest, Huston-Tillotson College, St. Edward's Univ., and The Univ. of Texas at Austin.■ Major annual events include Aqua Festival held late summer, and South by Southwest Music & Media and Film and Multimedia conferences in the spring.■ Austin is starting point for the Presidential Corridor via U.S. 290, Texas 21 to Texas 6 in Bryan/College Station connecting the George Herbert Walker Bush Library with the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library in Austin.■ The city bills itself as the "Live Music Capital of the World." Austin has it all--blues, country/Western, reggae, jazz, conjunto, Tejano, swing and rock. Performed in various clubs around city and at night spots along Sixth Street (see below).■ High tech and up beat, that's Silicon Hills. Austin is home to many computer chip makers and other computer industries. The city is home to nation's largest urban bat colony found under the Congress Ave. bridge during the summer. A kiosk on north shore of Town Lake's hike-and-bike trail near Four Seasons Hotel and one on the south shore inform visitors when and where to watch for the nocturnal mammals.■ The Greater Austin Area offers more than 20 bed and breakfast establishments. For information, contact the Austin Visitor Center. ■ Cities within approximately 30 miles of Austin: Bastrop * Dripping Springs * Elgin * Georgetown * Lago Vista * Round Rock * Taylor
Buchanan Dam Small resort and retirement community that grew at construction site of dam whose name it bears; popular center for extensive tourist activity on and around Lake Buchanan.■ Cities within approximately 40 miles of Buchanan Dam: Burnet * Copperas Cove * Johnson City * Kingsland * Lago Vista * Lampasas * Llano * Marble Falls * San Saba
Big Lake Community developed with building of Orient Railroad in 1911; served as marketing and retail center for surrounding cattle and sheep ranches. The Univ. of Texas owned much of rather arid grazing land around Big Lake where, in 1923, a large oil pool was discovered with the Santa Rita No. 1. The discovery made the Univ. of Texas one of the richest schools in nation (see below). Today Big Lake is seat of Reagan County; name derived from large, shallow depression to the south that forms a broad, shallow lake during rare wet seasons.■ Cities within approximately 50 miles of Big Lake: Iraan * McCamey * Mertzon * Ozona * Rankin
Brackettville Established as supply village for adjacent Fort Clark in 1852. Fort was one of the most historic military posts in Southwest. Over the years, many infantry regiments and most of Army's cavalry units saw duty at Fort Clark. Deactivated in 1944, property is now resort development (see below). Town also became trade center for surrounding ranches and irrigated farms. Seat of Kinney County. Hunting in area for white-tailed deer, wild turkey, javelina, and upland game birds.■ Cities within approximately 50 miles of Brackettville: Camp Wood * Concan * Del Rio * Eagle Pass * Leakey * Rocksprings * Uvalde
Blanco Settled 1853 by pioneer stockmen who had to fortify homes against hostile Indians. Named Blanco (Spanish word meaning white) for the Blanco River. Centerpiece of town square is the Old Blanco County Courthouse, fine example of Second Empire style architecture. Town was Blanco County seat from 1858 to 1891, when moved to centrally located Johnson City. Now popular tourist and resort area of Hill Country. Town square joined to state park by two-block City Park, with nature trail featuring Xeriscape garden. Sunny climate attracts campers, anglers, and hunters. Hill Country streams offer game fish; hunters take white-tailed deer, wild turkey, quail, and dove during seasons.■ Cities within approximately 30 miles of Blanco: Boerne * Dripping Springs * Fredericksburg * Johnson City * Luckenbach * Stonewall * Wimberley
Bandera Founded 1852 as a cypress shingle camp, and site of a Mormon colony established 1854. One of the oldest Polish communities in the U.S. An authentic Western town surrounded both by working and guest ranches. Horseback riding available, plus swimming in resort pools or clear Hill Country lakes and rivers. Fine year-round fishing; hunting in seasons for wild turkey and white-tailed deer; camping, hiking, rodeos, horse races, two 18-hole golf courses, and country/Western dances. Contact Bandera Convention & Visitors Bureau for details on historic sites, area attractions and special events at 1808 Texas 16 south ; phone 210/796-3045 or 1-800-364-3833.■ Top rodeo stars and country/Western celebrities know that the best spurs are made here. Sims Spur Co. makes about 15 styles of spurs and some 200 styles of bits. Check it out at 1108 Main St.■ Cities within approximately 30 miles of Bandera: Boerne * Camp Verde * Castroville * Comfort * Hondo * Ingram * Kerrville
Boerne Boerne (BUR-nee) grew from village called Tusculum laid out in 1849; formally established by German pioneer settlers in 1851, and named for German political writer. Fishermen find fortune in Hill Country lakes and streams; hunters seek white-tailed and axis deer, wild boar, turkey, native and migratory game birds.■ Cities within approximately 30 miles of Boerne: Bandera * Blanco * Camp Verde * Comfort * Kerrville * Luckenbach * San Antonio * Selma * Stonewall
Brady Orange and White Wildflowers along Highway 71 Settled mid-1800s, became seat of McCulloch County 1876. At edge of Hill Country on former Dodge Cattle Trail. Fourteen miles southwest, community of Calf Creek is site of Indian battle where James and Rezin Bowie, with a small party, were besieged for eight days by Tawakoni Indians. The fierce Bowie brothers fought their way free.■ Historical markers note the geographical center of Texas: one is on the picturesque courthouse square, and another, some 15 miles north on U.S. 377, is five miles southeast of the exact center of Texas. In straight-line distance it's 437 miles to the Rio Grande beyond El Paso, 401 miles to the Rio Grande below Brownsville, 412 miles to the Panhandle border beyond Texline, and 341 to the Sabine River near Burkeville.■ The longest fenced cattle trail in the world once extended from a railhead at Brady to Sonora (which see).■ City today offers excellent parks, city-owned lake and golf course; fishing year round. Hunting during seasons includes white-tailed deer, wild turkey, dove, and quail.■ For information on events, accommodations, dining, or sports events, call the chamber of commerce at 915/597-3491.■ Cities within approximately 50 miles of Brady: Brownwood * Coleman * Eola * Fort McKavett * Llano * Mason * Menard * Paint Rock * San Saba
Burnet Seat of Burnet County, town grew around frontier Fort Croghan, established 1849. One of the most ancient geological areas of the world. Features outcropping of granite and famous Longhorn Cavern (see below). Nearby White Bluff characterized by beautiful formations created by running and dripping water; on F.M. 2341 off Texas 29, about 15 miles northwest.■ Year-round tourist destination. Named Bluebonnet Capital of Texas by 67th Texas Legislature; known for beautiful display of wild flowers each spring. Antique shopping on historic square. Camping facilities and excellent fishing on nearby Highland Lakes. Hunters take deer, wild turkey, and dove in season.■ Delaware Springs Golf Course is an 18-hole municipal golf course on U.S. 281 south of town. Open daily from daylight to dark. 512/756-8471.■ For information on attractions, accommodations, and special events, call the chamber of commerce at 512/756-4297.■ Cities within approximately 30 miles of Burnet: Buchanan Dam * Kingsland * Lago Vista * Lampasas * Llano * Marble Falls
Castroville "The Little Alsace of Texas" rich in European appearance and traditions, founded in 1844 by Henri Castro, an empresario of the Texas Republic who brought a group of Alsatian settlers. Today in this quaint Texas village, past and present intermingle within a curve of the Medina River. Watch especially for examples of German-style country cottages, whose roofs are unequally pitched (usually on the back side) in a manner similar to lean-to design. Some buildings and houses are registered as historic. Center for agribusiness, widely known for genetic research and artificial breeding of livestock.■ Castroville Regional Park on Medina River has picnicking, swimming pool, fishing, athletic courts, and camping with hookups (fee). South off U.S. 90 at west edge of city. 210/538-2224.■ Cities within approximately 40 miles of Castroville: Bandera * Boerne * Devine * Hondo * Pearsall * Pleasanton * Poteet * San Antonio * Selma
Comfort Established by German settlers 1854. Wearied by their journey from New Braunfels, small group was so pleased by picturesque site and pure water that they named it "Camp Comfort." With its abundance of vintage structures, much of the midtown area is on the National Register of Historic Places. Today a popular tourist area with numerous camps along Guadalupe River operated by various civic organizations. Visitors enjoy fishing, swimming and camping during summer months, hunting during fall and winter; interesting shops and art gallery year round.■ An historical marker recognizes the 1930 art deco Comfort Theater, scene of live theater.■ Bed and breakfast accommodations offered in historic buildings.■ Cities within approximately 20 miles of Comfort: Bandera * Boerne * Camp Verde * Kerrville * Luckenbach * Stonewall
Concan Settled about 1840 in the rugged hills of north Uvalde County, supposedly named for "coon can," a Mexican gambling game. On U.S. 83 in scenic Frio River Canyon, an area of numerous dude ranches and resort camps.■ Cities within approximately 50 miles of Concan: Bandera * Brackettville * Camp Verde * Camp Wood * Hondo * Ingram * Leakey * Rocksprings * Uvalde * Vanderpool
Camp Verde Small community in beautiful Hill Country area at approximate site of Camp Verde, U.S. Army frontier post which was established July 8, 1855, as headquarters for the famous Army camel experiment. Secretary of War Jefferson Davis promoted experiment to use camels for overland communications and transportation across the rugged, often arid country to the west, terminating at Fort Yuma, CA. Taken over by Confederates in 1861; regarrisoned by Federals in 1865; abandoned, 1869. Only remaining structure is now main ranch house of local ranch, not open to the public.■ A roadside park on bank of Verde Creek and an old-fashioned general store/post office are enjoyed by visitors. On Texas 173 at F.M. 480 intersection, about 12 miles south of Kerrville.■ Cities within approximately 30 miles of Camp Verde: Bandera * Boerne * Comfort * Fredericksburg * Ingram * Kerrville * Luckenbach * Mountain Home t≤â|HoÇ⌠J0
Camp Wood Community grew around U.S. Army post of same name established 1857. Site was abandoned location of Spanish mission San Lorenzo de la Santa Cruz, founded by Franciscan missionaries 1762. Army abandoned post in 1861, but Texas Rangers used facilities for a number of years following Civil War. Historical markers just north of city on Texas 55 give details of fort and mission. Town is at edge of Nueces River Canyon in area of Hill Country camps, sparkling streams.■ Additional information on the city and area attractions can be obtained from the Nueces Canyon Chamber of Commerce at PO Box 369, Camp Wood, TX 78833, or by calling 210/597-6241.■ Cities within approximately 40 miles of Camp Wood: Brackettville * Concan * Leakey * Rocksprings * Uvalde * Vanderpool
Dripping Springs In northern Hays County, the community was established about 1875, although a settler named Fawcett had located on Barton Creek about 1849. Today the town is largely a ranching area and a bedroom community for Austin.■ Cities within approximately 30 miles of Dripping Springs: Austin * Blanco * Johnson City * Lago Vista * Marble Falls * San Marcos
Devine Created as station on International & Great Northern RR in 1881 although scattered settlement dates from 1840s (Indian raids persisted until 1870s); named for Thomas Jefferson Devine, a San Antonio judge; trade center for irrigated district of the Medina Valley, a diversified agricultural region. Major peanut shipping center, nurseries, extensive honey production. Municipal golf course, swimming pool.■ Cities within approximately 40 miles of Devine: Castroville * Hondo * Pearsall * Pleasanton * Poteet * San Antonio
Eldorado Seat of Schleicher County, established 1895. In scenic, rugged Hill Country of West Central Texas, city is center for oil field service and supply firms, and is headquarters for large ranching area, especially sheep and goats. Eldorado Woolens is only woolen mill in Southwest weaving fabrics from virgin wool and mohair produced on West Texas ranches. Heavy concentration of white-tailed deer makes entire county popular with hunters each fall and winter.■ Cities within approximately 50 miles of Eldorado: Eola * Fort McKavett * Menard * Mertzon * Ozona * San Angelo * Sonora
Elgin In Bastrop County, the city was established as a flag stop on the Houston and Texas Central Railroad in 1872 and named for Robert Morris Elgin, the railroad land commissioner who laid out the townsite. City owes its existence to a major flood of the Colorado River in 1869. Originally, the railroad was to have run 10 miles east of Elgin. When the river rose 60 feet over its banks, the railroad surveyed a new line through Elgin to Austin. Economy is based on light industry, agriculture, and brick manufacturing, and at one time was called "The Brick Capital of the Southwest."■ No visit to Elgin would be complete without tasting Elgin's hot sausage . It's wonderful! Four sausage companies make the delicacy. Information on location is available at the visitor center (see below). In fact, Elgin was named by the Texas Legislature as the "Sausage Capital of Texas".■ Be sure to visit the antique mall on U.S. 290 with more than 50 dealers offering a large variety of antiques and collectibles.■ All through the city, keep an eye out for beautiful, old homes. Also, downtown, a Main Street City, is recapturing its early look by refurbishing and reusing its historic buildings. Movies and TV commercials often use Elgin's quaint streets as backdrops.■ Elgin lies along the Presidential Corridor linking the George Herbert Walker Bush Library in Bryan/College Station with the Lyndon B. Johnson Library in Austin.■ Bed and breakfast accommodations are available in historic buildings in the city and surrounding area.■ Cities within approximately 30 miles of Elgin: Austin * Bastrop * Georgetown * Giddings * Lexington * Round Rock * Smithville * Taylor
Fredericksburg Settled by immigrant families from Germany in 1846, led by John O. Meusebach. Although settlement was on Comanche frontier, Meusebach-Comanche Treaty of following year established lasting peace (see Fort Martin Scott below). Many older buildings retain traditional German styles; several units comprise National Historic District. German is still spoken occasionally, and old customs are regularly observed: Easter Fires, Schuetzenfests (marksmanship tournaments), Oktoberfest, Kristkindl Markt, and Kinderfest. Visitors attracted by scenic beauty, European atmosphere, historic landmarks, excellent fall and winter hunting, and famous bread and pastries. Birthplace of Fleet Adm. Chester W. Nimitz, Commander in Chief of the Pacific Fleet during World War II.■ Cities within approximately 30 miles of Fredericksburg: Blanco * Camp Verde * Comfort * Ingram * Johnson City * Kerrville * Luckenbach ≤é(≤Ç⌠J0
Fort McKavett The rural community in west Menard County occupies the site of a frontier Army fort founded in the mid-1800s as protection for settlers from Indians. On F.M. 864 just south of U.S. 190 (west of Menard).■ Cities within approximately 50 miles of Fort McKavett: Brady * Eldorado * Eola * Junction * Menard * Paint Rock * San Angelo * Sonora
Georgetown Established 1848 as trade center for agricultural region. Seat of Williamson County at edge of black, fertile farmland and Hill Country ranch lands. Participation in Main Street Project has resulted in preservation and restoration of downtown Victorian commercial architecture. Site of Southwestern Univ., prestigious Methodist school founded in 1840.■ Visitors may tour a factory that produces more than a thousand kinds of colorful, decorative candles.■ Cities within approximately 30 miles of Georgetown: Austin * Bartlett * Elgin * Lago Vista * Round Rock * Salado * Taylor
Goldthwaite Established 1885, seat of Mills County. Trade center for agricultural products including wool, mohair, fruits, cattle, turkeys and pecans. Area was long plagued by Indian raids; in fact, Comanches and Apaches often fought over area before first white settlers arrived. White-tailed deer popular with hunters each fall and winter season; fishing excellent in nearby Colorado River and Pecan Bayou all year.■ Goldthwaite lies on U.S. 183, a segment of the Ports to Plains Highway connecting the state's heartland to coastal ports.■ Cities within approximately 50 miles of Goldthwaite: Brownwood * Buchanan Dam * Comanche * Copperas Cove * Dublin * Gatesville * Hamilton * Lampasas * Llano * San Saba
Hondo County seat of Medina County, established in 1880s on Southern Pacific Railroad. Takes name from Hondo (Spanish for "deep") Creek. Hunting for deer and upland game birds popular in season. Public golf course, swimming pool.■ Cities within approximately 40 miles of Hondo: Bandera * Boerne * Camp Verde * Castroville * Concan * Devine * Pearsall * Uvalde * Vanderpool
Ingram On north bank of Guadalupe River, city founded 1883 by J.C.W. Ingram who built a store and conducted church services. "New" section was started in 1936 following a disastrous flood. A trade center for surrounding camps, vacation and retirement homes.■ Cities within approximately 30 miles of Ingram: Bandera * Camp Verde * Comfort * Fredericksburg * Kerrville * Luckenbach * Mountain Home
Junction Established 1876 with formation of county. Today a trade and retail center of scenic, sparsely populated area nationally noted for production of fine wool and mohair. Camping, fishing, canoeing and hunting are popular in area. More flowing streams than any other Texas county; year-round fishing. Hunters find wild turkey, deer and game birds during season, squirrels throughout year; exotics also found in area.■ Schreiner (city) Park on Lake Junction has swimming pool, basketball courts, baseball fields and free overnight camping.■ Cities within approximately 50 miles of Junction: Fort McKavett * Ingram * Kerrville * Mason * Menard * Mountain Home * Rocksprings
Johnson City Seat of Blanco County, named for pioneer Johnson family, ancestors of President Lyndon B. Johnson. Retail center for farm and ranch area.■ Cities within approximately 30 miles of Johnson City: Blanco * Dripping Springs * Fredericksburg * Kingsland * Lago Vista * Luckenbach * Marble Falls * Stonewall * Wimberley
Kerrville Seat of Kerr County, one of state's most popular health and recreation centers. Area believed by many to have most ideal climate in the nation. More than two dozen boys' and girls' camps, scores of hotels, motels, dude ranches and religious encampments attract thousands annually. Rugged cedar and live oak-covered hills, picturesque green valleys and beautiful streams edged by towering cypress. White-tailed deer so numerous that motorists are cautioned to be on the alert for them, especially at night.■ Capt. Charles A. Schreiner, born in Riguewihr, France, was early, prominent Kerrville settler. He served with the Confederacy and as a Texas Ranger; established general merchandising business in Kerrville, 1869. The Charles Schreiner Co. owned more than 60,000 acres of land by 1900, extending some 80 miles northwest to Menard. Among Schreiner's philanthropies was establishment of Schreiner Institute (now Schreiner College).■ Industries include Mooney Aircraft, James Avery Silversmith.■ Major annual events are Texas State Arts & Crafts Fair, Memorial Day weekend, provides opportunity to see works of more than 200 of Texas' finest artists and craftsmen.. The Kerrville Folk Festival features folk and Country/Western stars on Memorial Day weekend for 18 days, and the Folk Wine & Music Festival Labor Day weekend at Quiet Valley Ranch south of Kerrville.■ The Texas Heritage Music Foundation features the Texas Heritage Fall Festival in Sept. which includes a tribute to Jimmie Rodgers.■ Cities within approximately 30 miles of Kerrville: Bandera * Boerne * Camp Verde * Comfort * Fredericksburg * Ingram * Luckenbach * Mountain Home * Stonewall
Lago Vista Originally a lakeside resort development with homes, condominiums, and golf courses; incorporated in 1984. Name in Spanish means "Lake View." The community encompasses more than eleven miles of shoreline on Lake Travis. There's year-round golfing, boating, fishing, hunting, and tennis.■ F.M. 1431 west offers exceptional scenery through Hill Country. Especially pretty during spring with bluebonnets and other wild flowers.■ Cities within approximately 30 miles of Lago Vista: Austin * Burnet * Dripping Springs * Georgetown * Johnson City * Marble Falls * Round Rock
Luckenbach Settled in 1850 by German pioneers, the tiny hamlet remained obscure until bought in the 1970s by the late Hondo Crouch, pixieish Hill Country humorist, writer, and authentic Texas character. An enormously popular country-western song made the name known virtually worldwide.■ Luckenbach remains as it was--one unpainted general store that also serves as a beer tavern, a traditional rural dance hall, and a sometimes-used blacksmith shop. Sunday afternoons are often spontaneous "happenings." Banjo pickers, guitar strummers, and fiddlers form impromptu groups beneath huge old live oaks. Whittlers ply their leisurely craft, and washer pitchers exercise deceptively simple skills.■ Luckenbach's bemusing ambiance, according to one writer, "is like Brigadoon; you're almost afraid to go back because it might not be there again."■ It's there--east of Fredericksburg off U.S. 290, five miles south just off F.M. 1376. Don't count on signs; souvenir thieves swipe them as fast as they can be placed.■ Cities within approximately 30 miles of Luckenbach: Blanco * Boerne * Camp Verde * Comfort * Fredericksburg * Ingram * Johnson City * Kerrville * Stonewall
Leakey Small community (pronounced LAY-key) is in one of most scenic and picturesque areas of rugged Edwards Plateau, locally called the Hill Country. Elevations range from 1,500 to 2,400 feet with deep, dramatic canyons cut by Frio and Nueces Rivers. Archaeological excavations show evidence of prehistoric civilizations in area. At time of first Spanish explorers, game-rich area was inhabited by Comanche, Apache and Lipan-Apache Indians. Ranching predominates today featuring cattle, sheep and goats. Flocks of registered Angora goats produce prized mohair. Camping and hunting are popular with visitors. Game birds and animals include white-tailed deer, wild turkey, mourning dove, quail, squirrel, javelina, rabbits, and raccoons.■ Stop by Texarome perfume factory and cedar mill. Texas cedarwood and its derivatives is one of the most widely used ingredients of fragrance formulas world-wide. Factory open daily. 1.5 miles east on F.M. 337. Admission. Also, factory outlet store in downtown.■ Cities within approximately 40 miles of Leakey: Camp Wood * Concan * Ingram * Mountain Home * Rocksprings * Uvalde * Vanderpool
Llano Founded in 1855, on the clear, spring-fed Llano River, the town of Llano became the county seat in 1856. Well established by 1860 with stores, saloons and a hotel, there was no church in the rough frontier village. Llano courthouse dates from 1892.■ The present farm-ranch community in scenic Hill Country bills itself the "Deer Capital of Texas" and hosts many hunters seeking abundant white-tailed deer during fall-winter season. Year-round fishing in picturesque Llano River and nearby Highland Lakes. Entire downtown square is designated a National Historic District.■ An entertaining and educational walking tour is sure to interest visitors. Information about the walking tour, as well as events, accommodations, hunting, and area attractions is available from the chamber of commerce office at 700 Bessemer, or by calling 915/247-5354.■ Cities within approximately 40 miles of Llano: Buchanan Dam * Burnet * Fredericksburg * Johnson City * Kingsland * Lampasas * Luckenbach * Marble Falls * Mason * San Saba * Stonewall
Lampasas Established as Burleson in early 1850s, name changed with creation of Lampasas County; made county seat. Mineral springs popular among Indians long before white settlers arrived, and they still flow hardly half a mile from native stone courthouse, which is on National Register of Historic Places. Historic structures include Keystone Hotel, early Texas landmark-stagecoach stop, now restored savings-and-loan office. Sportsmen find prime hunting for white-tailed deer, wild turkey, quail, mourning dove, and excellent fishing in local creeks and nearby Lampasas and Colorado Rivers.■ Lampasas lies on U.S. 190, a segment of the Ports to Plains Highway connecting the state's heartland to coastal ports.■ City is participant in Texas Main Street Project. Downtown buildings feature local limestone construction; several restored and others planned. Most originally built in 1880s.■ Cities within approximately 40 miles of Lampasas: Buchanan Dam * Burnet * Copperas Cove * Gatesville * Goldthwaite * Killeen * Kingsland * Llano * Marble Falls * Salado * San Saba
Mason Seat of Mason County, grew under protection of Fort Mason, one of series of Texas frontier forts. In rolling, scenic Hill Country noted for camping, hunting and fishing. White-tailed deer and wild turkey attract hunters each fall and winter; fishing in beautiful Llano River is year round sport. Historical interest centers around Indians who once roamed area, a bloody feud known as the Mason County War, and the fort. Many homes and businesses in town are constructed of original-cut sandstone blocks from old Fort Mason. Bluebonnets blanket surrounding hillsides and valleys during spring. Note picturesque rock fences stitched along scenic countryside.■ Visit historic town square; quaint courthouse amid large pecan trees offers photo opportunity.■ Cities within approximately 40 miles of Mason: Brady * Fredericksburg * Junction * Llano * Menard * Mountain Home
Marble Falls Named for Colorado River waterfalls over marble outcroppings. Hunting, fishing and camping activities are popular. Native game fish abound in lakes and streams. Fall and winter hunting seasons offer plentiful white-tailed deer, wild turkey and excellent wing shooting of migratory and native game birds.■ Cities within approximately 30 miles of Marble Falls: Buchanan Dam * Burnet * Dripping Springs * Johnson City * Kingsland * Lago Vista * Llano
Menard Established 1858 near ruins of ancient Spanish mission Santa Cruz de San Saba (see below), which had been abandoned a century before. Town was early trading post and stop on north and west cattle trails; compound of an old Spanish mission just east of town served as corral, holding up to 3,000 cattle on way to market. Only scattered ruins of mission remain today. Currently, sheep and wool production are of primary importance, followed by beef cattle and Angora goats. Legends of lost silver mine still circulate in area. Picnic facilities in attractive, tree-shaded city park on San Saba River with campgrounds adjacent to park in midtown on F.M. 2292; public golf course adjacent to presidio ruins just west of town.■ Cities within approximately 50 miles of Menard: Brady * Eldorado * Eola * Fort McKavett * Junction * Mason * Paint Rock
Mertzon Established 1910 as stop on Kansas City, Mexico and Orient Railroad; named for a director of the line. Seat of Irion County, a rolling to hilly area devoted primarily to ranching. County is one of Texas' leading sheep producing areas.■ Cities within approximately 50 miles of Mertzon: Big Lake * Eldorado * Eola * Miles * Ozona * Robert Lee * San Angelo * Sonora
Mountain Home Not really among mountains, but the Hill Country setting is picturesque. Established 1890 by storekeeper Thomas A. Dowdy to serve surrounding ranchers with staple foods and supplies. Community in western Kerr County on Texas 27/41 (just south of I-10) still provides much the same service in a rather sparsely populated area of several very large ranches.■ Cities within approximately 40 miles of Mountain Home: Bandera * Camp Verde * Comfort * Fredericksburg * Ingram * Junction * Kerrville * Leakey * Luckenbach * Mason * Vanderpool
New Braunfels Seat of Comal County, established 1845 on Comal River by German settlers led by Prince Carl of Solms-Braunfels. Successful farming, ranching, abundant water from large springs contributed to early prosperity of settlement. German influence in tradition, culture and language still prominent; famous for sausages, breads, and popular river resorts.■ New Braunfels Factory Stores is one of state's first factory-direct shopping centers with some 50 manufacturers selling direct. Open at 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. daily except 6 p.m. Sun. Exit 187 or 189 on I-35.■ Wurstfest (Sausage Festival), 10 days early Nov., salutes the "best of the wurst." Features singing societies, traditional German bands, dancing groups and sausages of every description. Historical exhibits, art shows and special events. Bed and breakfast accommodations offered in historic buildings. Cities within approximately 30 miles of New Braunfels: Lockhart * Luling * San Antonio * San Marcos * Seguin * Selma * Wimberley
Ozona Seat of Crockett County, vast ranching and oil area of 3,000 square miles; city is state's largest unincorporated town and only town in entire county. One of nation's top areas in wool production; more than two million pounds marketed annually. In Edwards Plateau region, hunters find white-tailed deer, javelina and upland game birds.■ Cities within approximately 50 miles of Ozona: Big Lake * Eldorado * Iraan * Mertzon * Sonora
Round Rock Established 1850, named for large round rock in bed of Brushy Creek. Site of historic St. Charles Hotel, built 1850. Best known as site of killing of notorious outlaw Sam Bass, now buried in Round Rock Cemetery. Bass's gang plagued stagecoaches, trains and banks in area and was object of intensive chase by Texas Rangers. An informer warned Rangers and Round Rock lawmen of planned raid on a local bank. Bass gang was ambushed there on July 18, 1878. Wounded in the gun battle, Bass died two days later.■ Cities within approximately 30 miles of Round Rock: Austin * Bartlett * Elgin * Georgetown * Lago Vista * Taylor
Rocksprings Established 1891, named for springs prized as water source by wagon trains and Indians. In highest area of rugged, scenic Edwards Plateau known locally as the Hill Country. Climate is cool and dry in summer, mild and sunny in winter. Area is popular year-round vacation spot offering camping, picnicking, hiking, and rock collecting. During specified seasons hunters take white-tailed deer, wild turkey and upland game birds. Fishing on nearby South Llano and Nueces Rivers.■ Cities within approximately 50 miles of Rocksprings: Brackettville * Camp Wood * Concan * Junction * Leakey * Sonora * Vanderpool
San Marcos Seat of Hays County at edge of the Hill Country; was once temporary site of two Spanish missions being relocated from East Texas because of French and Indian difficulties. Laid out for Anglo-American settlers in 1851. Clear, cold San Marcos River rises from mammoth springs within town; noted for profusion of both plant and animal aquatic life, river is ranked among world's most fertile. White-tailed deer are numerous in Hill Country. Hunters also take dove, quail, squirrel, fox and an occasional bobcat. Fishing is enjoyed year round in the San Marcos and nearby Blanco Rivers.■ Home of San Marcos Baptist Academy and the alma mater of Lyndon B. Johnson, Southwest Texas State Univ., whose campus commands an impressive view of city.■ Bed and breakfast accommodations offered in historic district.■ Shoppers find bargains of 25% to 70% off name brand labels daily at San Marcos Factory Shops and Tanger Outlet Center south on I-35 at Center Point Rd. at exit 200. It's home to the largest factory outlet complex in the state..■ Cities within approximately 30 miles of San Marcos: Dripping Springs * Lockhart * Luling * New Braunfels * Seguin * Wimberley
Sonora On western slope of the Edwards Plateau, began as trading post on Old San Antonio-El Paso Road with Anglo-American settlement beginning about 1890; was connected by stage to San Angelo until 1915, and Western heritage is reflected still. The Sutton County seat is a leading wool and mohair center; local firm produces garments, blankets and fabric from locally produced products. Hunters take deer and turkey during season.■ The longest fenced cattle trail in the world once extended from a railhead at Brady to Sonora. Fort Worth & Rio Grande Railroad purchased 250-foot-wide right of way and fenced it for the 100-mile distance. Holding pastures and windmills were along route that operated profitably for decade--until another railroad completed a line to Sonora.■ Cities within approximately 50 miles of Sonora: Eldorado * Fort McKavett * Mertzon * Ozona * Rocksprings
San Saba Settled 1854 and named for scenic river on which it is located. Seat of San Saba County, agricultural area producing wool, mohair, cattle, horses, hogs and poultry. City is also widely known for its pecan crops which are shipped worldwide. San Saba and Colorado Rivers are popular with campers and fishermen. During autumn-winter seasons, hunters take white-tailed deer, wild turkey, squirrel, and native game birds.■ Information on events, accommodations, and restaurants may be obtained from the chamber of commerce by calling 915/372-5141.■ Cities within approximately 40 miles of San Saba: Brady * Brownwood * Buchanan Dam * Goldthwaite * Kingsland * Lampasas * Llano
Stonewall The Central Texas village on U.S. 290 west of Austin was established 1870, named for Confederate Gen. Stonewall Jackson. Famed for delicious Gillespie County peaches, and location of LBJ Ranch, home of the late President Lyndon B. Johnson.■ Cities within approximately 30 miles of Stonewall: Blanco * Boerne * Comfort * Fredericksburg * Johnson City * Kerrville * Luckenbach
Taylor Originally named Taylorsville to honor Edward M. Taylor, an official of Houston Belt and Terminal RR when townsite laid out in 1876 in southeastern Williamson County. First public school in 1883, first water works in 1882 and first churches in 1878; incorporated in 1882. Today town is center for agribusiness and industrial area with plants making furniture, clothing, bedding and many other products.■ Two municipal parks provide swimming pools, picnic areas, and other recreational activities. Taylor Country Club's 9-hole golf course is open to the public.■ Cities within approximately 30 miles of Taylor: Austin * Bartlett * Elgin * Georgetown * Lexington * Round Rock * Salado
Uvalde First settled 1853, and in 1855-56 known as Encina. Once domain of notorious frontier sheriff and outlaw, J. King Fisher. Historical marker on Fisher and graves of early settlers killed by Indians in Pioneer Cemetery, 500 block N. Park St. Today a retail center for extensive cattle, sheep and goat ranching, and truck farming. Industries include vegetable packing and processing, aircraft modifications, and garment making. City is at intersection of nation's two longest highways, U.S. 90 and U.S. 83. Home of Southwest Texas Junior College and Sul Ross State Univ., Rio Grande College.■ Cities within approximately 40 miles of Uvalde: Brackettville * Camp Wood * Concan * Crystal City * Hondo * Leakey * Vanderpool
Vanderpool Town received its name (from early settler L.B. Vanderpool) when a post office was granted in 1885. On the Sabinal River in the exceptionally scenic Hill Country of western Bandera County. Largely utilized for sheep, goat and cattle ranching, area is a favorite of deer hunters during season, and year-round gateway to popular Lost Maples State Natural Area.■ Cities within approximately 40 miles of Vanderpool: Bandera * Camp Verde * Camp Wood * Concan * Hondo * Ingram * Kerrville * Leakey * Mountain Home * Uvalde
Wimberley Established 1848, the picturesque village today is a resort and retirement area on R.M. 12 in beautiful Central Texas Hill Country north of San Marcos. Visitors are entranced by cool, shady pools beneath towering cypress trees, frothy cascades on Blanco River and sparkling Cypress Creek, green meadows and majestic hills; abundant white-tailed deer. Recreational communities, vacation resorts and youth camps dot area. Climbing, hiking, fishing, swimming, boating, golf, tennis, arts and crafts, and camping are popular activities. Many artists and authors make their homes here.■ Twelve miles north on R.M. 12 is Billie Bob's Knob, an unusual shop with 12 display rooms featuring arts, country crafts and out-of-the-ordinary merchandise.■ Cities within approximately 30 miles of Wimberley: Blanco * Dripping Springs * Johnson City * Lockhart * New Braunfels * San Marcos * Seguin
