Hancock Recreation Center
The Austin Country Club (ACC) Clubhouse, later named Hancock Recreation Center, was constructed in 1934. Spearheaded by Lewis Hancock, Jr. and other members, the golf course was constructed in 1899; members incorporated the Austin Golf Club in 1900. Hancock, Austin’s Mayor from 1895-1897, wanted to bring golf to Austin, and organized a group of members to finance this endeavor. In 1906, the Austin Golf Club’s participation in Texas’ first pay-for-play golf tournament established Austin as a premier golf city.
The ACC golf course was originally a nine-hole course, which has seen minimal changes since its original construction. In 1913, the size of the course was doubled, with nine holes added on a large plot of land to the northeast of the course. The current ACC Clubhouse was built by prominent architect Charles H. Page, Jr. utilizing building materials salvaged from the demolition of the University of Texas Old Main Building. The clubhouse was influenced by Colonial Revival style, with rhythmic arched windows and material juxtaposition of stone and wood. ACC sold the course to the City of Austin in 1946.
ACC continued to use this building until 1951 when ACC moved to its new location, and the building became one of the city’s first recreation centers. The clubhouse was altered in the 1960s, adding the brick portion of the building which provided additional activity rooms and storage. The Community Center has five activity rooms, a ballroom, sun room, pro shop and office spaces. The original portion of the building is built of limestone and brick, while the newer addition has white painted brick. The course and clubhouse maintain a historically fashioned layout not seen in courses built in the past several decades.
Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 2014
As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.
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.
European exploration of the region began in the 17th century when Spanish explorers ventured into what is now Travis County. However, it was not until the early 19th century that permanent settlements were established. In 1835, the area became part of the Republic of Texas after gaining independence from Mexico, and the county was officially created in 1840.
Travis County was named after William Barret Travis, a Texas Revolution hero who commanded the Texan forces during the Battle of the Alamo in 1836. Throughout the 19th century, the county experienced significant growth and development, driven by factors such as the arrival of immigrants, the expansion of the railroad, and the establishment of institutions like the University of Texas at Austin in 1883.
During the 20th century, Travis County continued to evolve and modernize. Austin, the county seat and state capital, grew into a vibrant and culturally diverse city, known for its live music scene, technological innovations, and progressive policies. The county became a center for government, education, and business, attracting a wide range of industries and residents.
Today, Travis County is one of the most populous and economically vibrant counties in Texas. It is home to a diverse population and a wide range of cultural, educational, and recreational opportunities. The county's history, coupled with its present-day dynamism, contributes to its unique character and makes it a significant region in the Lone Star State.
Travis County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Travis County, Texas.
- Pre-19th Century: The area that would become Travis County was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Tonkawa and Lipan Apache.
1691: Spanish explorers, including Domingo Terán de los Ríos and Alonso de León, explored the region.
1835: Texas Revolution against Mexico begins, and the area becomes part of the Republic of Texas.
1839: Waterloo, a small village settled near the Colorado River, is selected as the site for the new capital of the Republic of Texas.
1840: Travis County is officially established and named after William Barret Travis, a hero of the Texas Revolution.
1842: The capital is officially named Austin after Stephen F. Austin, "The Father of Texas."
1871: The Houston and Texas Central Railway reaches Austin, facilitating transportation and spurring growth.
1883: The University of Texas at Austin is founded.
1891: The Texas State Capitol building, an iconic landmark, is completed.
1930s-1940s: The construction of dams, including Mansfield Dam and Tom Miller Dam, on the Colorado River provides flood control and creates Lake Travis and Lake Austin, respectively.
1970s-1990s: Austin experiences significant growth and becomes known for its live music scene, technology industry, and progressive culture.
2000s-Present: Travis County continues to grow in population and economic significance, with Austin being recognized as one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States.