Westgate Tower
In 1962, the internationally-acclaimed architect Edward Durell
Stone (1902-1978) of New York City and local firm Fehr & Granger
designed the Westgate Tower, named for its location adjoining
the west edge of the Texas State Capitol grounds. Designed for the
Lumbermen's Investment Corporation of Austin, the Westgate
Tower was the tallest building constructed in Austin during the
1960s at 261 feet in height. Under the leadership of Julian H.
Zimmerman and in coordination with Stone, Austin's first
residential high-rise opened in 1965 with apartments, parking,
restaurant and social club.
The mixed-use building is of poured-in-place, monolithic
reinforced concrete clad in brown brick sourced from the
locally-based Butler Brick Company, with full-length windows and
individual balconettes between brick-faced columns. Decorative
masonry solar screens, a distinctive characteristic of Stone's mid-
Twentieth-Century modern architecture, allow light to enter the
parking garage and top two floors while offering privacy and
shade from the Texas sun. The 26-story tower is arranged around
a central core of elevators and a staircase, and all residential
units open to expansive views of the Capitol grounds and city of
Austin, a key element of Stone's design.
Intended to serve as a prototype for other apartments and office
Towers in Austin, the westgate tower has historically been home
to many State Representatives and Senators, state employees,
political activists and lobbyists, and local business leaders.
Combining residential and commercial space, the Westgate Tower
significantly contributed to the urban planning and development
of downtown Austin.
Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 2012
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.
The first domed stadium in the world, the Astrodome, was built in Houston in 1965 and hosted numerous sporting events and concerts over the years.
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 condensed summary of the historical journey 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.