National Register Listing

Elgin Commercial Historic District

Roughly, along Main St., Ave. C, Central and Depot Aves. and 1st and 2nd Sts., Elgin, TX
The Elgin Commercial Historic District, which comprises the mercantile center of Elgin, represents the early commercial development and history of the city. Its period of significance begins in 1872 with the platting of the town by the Houston and Texas Central (H&TC) railroad and the construction of the oldest surviving building, the H&TC freight depot, and ends with the construction of the International Style Webb & Webb law office in 1947. Throughout this period, the district served the local communities' trading and mercantile needs, as access to rail facilities provided by the Houston and Texas Central and Missouri, Kansas, & Texas (MKT or Katy) railroads drew farmers and merchants to the town. The district developed around the railroads into a centralized trading center for lumber and agricultural products, especially cotton, and also served as a center for brick-making in Elgin, which would become one of the town's most important industries. Saloons, banks, physicians' offices, pharmacies, furniture, clothing, and hardware stores, along with numerous general stores, lined the streets and catered to the various needs of the surrounding community.

The strong historical associations of the buildings to the local cotton and brick industries and to Elgin's economic growth and prosperity during the period of significance support listing under National Register Criterion A at the local level of significance. The vernacular commercial architecture of the district also meets National Register Criterion C at the local level of significance for its reflection of distinctive characteristics of late 19th and early 20th century retail, commercial, and industrial building types and styles. The detailed masonry of the buildings in red and later buff-colored brick demonstrates the impact of the local brick industry on the city's development. A coherent rhythm of storefront entries, windows, and transoms characterize and lend continuity to the district's resources, which retain a high degree of integrity.
Local significance of the district:
Commerce; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1996.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

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Texas is known for its love of football, and the state has produced many great football players, including legends like Tom Landry, Earl Campbell, and Vince Young.
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Bastrop County, Texas, located southeast of Austin, holds a significant place in the history of the Lone Star State. The area was inhabited by indigenous tribes before European settlers arrived. In the early 19th century, permanent settlements began to emerge as the region became part of the Republic of Texas, following Texas' independence from Mexico in 1836.

Bastrop County was officially established during this period, named after Felipe Enrique Neri, Baron de Bastrop, a prominent figure in early Texas history. The county experienced significant growth and development throughout the 19th century, driven by factors such as the arrival of immigrants, the expansion of the railroad, and the establishment of key industries like lumber and agriculture.

During the 20th century, Bastrop County continued to evolve, adapting to changing times and embracing modernization. The county has a rich agricultural heritage, particularly in cotton and cattle production. Additionally, Bastrop County is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including the Lost Pines Forest, which provides a unique ecosystem and attracts visitors from near and far.

Today, Bastrop County is a diverse and dynamic region, balancing its historical roots with modern developments. The county offers a mix of rural charm and urban amenities, with communities that value their heritage while embracing new opportunities for growth.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Bastrop County, Texas.

  • Pre-19th Century: Bastrop County was home to indigenous tribes, including the Tonkawa and Hasinai Caddo, who inhabited the area for centuries.

  • 1800s: In the early 19th century, the region witnessed an influx of Anglo-American settlers, with Stephen F. Austin's colony playing a significant role in the area's colonization.

  • 1836: Texas gains independence from Mexico, and the Republic of Texas is established. Bastrop County is officially formed in 1837 and named after Baron de Bastrop, a Dutch businessman who played a key role in the colony's development.

  • Late 1800s: Bastrop County thrives as an agricultural hub, with cotton production serving as a prominent economic activity. The arrival of railroads further facilitates trade and transportation.

  • 20th Century: The county witnesses modernization and growth, with the rise of other industries such as lumber, oil, and gas. Bastrop County also plays a role in World War II as Camp Swift, a military training facility, is established.

  • 21st Century: Bastrop County faces challenges such as wildfires, notably the devastating Bastrop County Complex Fire in 2011, which impacted thousands of acres and destroyed hundreds of homes. The county continues to evolve, balancing its agricultural roots with suburban growth and maintaining its natural beauty.