Blanco Historic District
a.k.a. See Also:Conn,Adrian Edwards,House
Roughly bounded by Fifth St., Live Oak St., Town Cr. and rear property lines W of Main St., Blanco, TXThe Blanco Historic District is a small intact courthouse-square district that encompasses the central business district and a small number of surrounding residences. Although a few properties, including the former Blanco County Courthouse, date from the mid to late 19th century, the majority represent the last major historic building phase of central Blanco from 1920 to 1941. The district is eligible under Criterion A in the area of commerce for its role as a commercial service center to the agricultural community of southern Blanco County and as an excellent example of small-town commercial development in the Texas Hil l Country. It also is eligible under Criterion c in the area of architecture as a collection of buildings in an urban form that is unique to the area and that reflects traditional architectural influences from the 1860s to the 1940s.
Local significance of the district:
Commerce; Architecture
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1991.
About National Register Listings
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.
In the late 19th century, Texas became known for its cattle drives, in which cowboys would move herds of cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas and other northern states. The cattle drives were dangerous and difficult work, but they played a key role in the development of the American cattle industry.
About Blanco County
Blanco County Timeline
Blanco County, located in central Texas, has a rich history that dates back to the early days of European exploration and settlement in the region. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Comanches and Lipan Apaches. In the 18th century, Spanish explorers and missionaries arrived in the area, leaving behind a few names like Blanco, which means "white" in Spanish and was inspired by the limestone bluffs along the Blanco River.
The first permanent settlements in Blanco County were established in the 1850s by pioneers attracted by the fertile land and abundant water sources. These early settlers were primarily farmers and ranchers who built thriving communities such as Blanco and Johnson City. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century brought increased prosperity and facilitated the export of agricultural products, particularly wool and livestock.
Blanco County played a significant role in the history of Texas during the 20th century. In 1905, the county seat was moved from Blanco to Johnson City, which became the birthplace of President Lyndon B. Johnson. The LBJ Ranch, where the President lived for much of his life, is now a National Historic Site that attracts visitors from around the world.
Today, Blanco County continues to thrive as a popular destination for tourism, particularly due to its scenic beauty, wineries, and outdoor recreation opportunities. The county's rich history is celebrated through various museums, monuments, and annual events that showcase its cultural heritage. Whether exploring the stunning landscapes, visiting historic sites, or experiencing the local hospitality, Blanco County offers a glimpse into the fascinating history of Texas.
The first permanent settlements in Blanco County were established in the 1850s by pioneers attracted by the fertile land and abundant water sources. These early settlers were primarily farmers and ranchers who built thriving communities such as Blanco and Johnson City. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century brought increased prosperity and facilitated the export of agricultural products, particularly wool and livestock.
Blanco County played a significant role in the history of Texas during the 20th century. In 1905, the county seat was moved from Blanco to Johnson City, which became the birthplace of President Lyndon B. Johnson. The LBJ Ranch, where the President lived for much of his life, is now a National Historic Site that attracts visitors from around the world.
Today, Blanco County continues to thrive as a popular destination for tourism, particularly due to its scenic beauty, wineries, and outdoor recreation opportunities. The county's rich history is celebrated through various museums, monuments, and annual events that showcase its cultural heritage. Whether exploring the stunning landscapes, visiting historic sites, or experiencing the local hospitality, Blanco County offers a glimpse into the fascinating history of Texas.
Blanco County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Blanco County, Texas.
- 1839 - Blanco County is established and named after the Blanco River.
- 1850s - German immigrants begin to settle in the area, establishing farms and ranches.
- 1855 - The town of Blanco is founded as the county seat.
- 1860s - Blanco County becomes a center for cattle ranching and agriculture.
- 1869 - The Blanco County Courthouse is built, which still stands today.
- 1873 - The first public school is opened in Blanco County.
- 1885 - The Cedar Mountain School, the first high school in the county, is founded.
- 1891 - The Blanco County News, the first newspaper in the county, is established.
- 1900s - The county experiences economic growth with the expansion of the railroad and the growth of the granite industry.
- 1928 - The Pedernales Electric Cooperative is established, providing electricity to rural areas of Blanco County.
- 1960s - Tourism becomes an important industry in Blanco County, with visitors attracted to the scenic beauty and outdoor activities.
- 1997 - The Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park is established, preserving the home and ranch of the 36th President of the United States, Lyndon B. Johnson.