The History of Taylor, Texas: From a Railroad Town to a Thriving Community
Nestled in Williamson County, just northeast of Austin, Taylor, Texas is a town rich in history, culture, and community pride. From its early days as a railroad town to its present-day growth as a key part of the Austin metro area, Taylor has played an important role in the development of Central Texas. As you walk through its charming downtown, explore its historic buildings, and meet its friendly residents, it’s clear that Taylor’s heritage runs deep.
In this article, we’ll take you through the fascinating history of Taylor, Texas—from its humble beginnings in the late 1800s to its status as a thriving small town today.
1. Early Beginnings: Settlement of the Blackland Prairie
Before the town of Taylor was officially established, the region was home to Native American tribes, including the Tonkawa, Comanche, and Lipan Apache. These indigenous peoples lived off the land, hunting buffalo and other game on the vast Blackland Prairie.
In the early 19th century, as settlers began moving into Texas, the area that would become Taylor was primarily used for farming and ranching. The fertile soil of the Blackland Prairie made it an ideal spot for cotton cultivation, which quickly became the dominant crop. By the mid-1800s, several small settlements had popped up around the region, but it wasn’t until the arrival of the railroad that Taylor would truly begin to take shape.
2. The Railroad and the Founding of Taylor (1876)
Taylor’s official founding dates back to 1876, when the International-Great Northern Railroad (I&GN) extended its tracks through Williamson County. The arrival of the railroad was a game-changer for the area. The new rail lines provided easy access for transporting cotton, cattle, and other goods to major markets like Houston and Galveston, transforming the region into a bustling economic hub.
The town was initially called “Taylorsville,” named after Edward Moses Taylor, a railroad official who played a key role in bringing the tracks to the area. By the late 1800s, the name was shortened to Taylor, and the town rapidly grew as people moved in to take advantage of the opportunities the railroad provided.
Growth of Taylor as a Railroad Town
With the railroad at its heart, Taylor quickly became one of the largest shipping points for cotton in Texas. The town’s economy thrived as both cotton farmers and cattle ranchers took advantage of the town’s growing infrastructure. As a result, new businesses, hotels, saloons, and homes began to spring up, and by the turn of the century, Taylor had established itself as an important commercial center in Central Texas.
3. A Diverse and Growing Population
One of the unique aspects of Taylor’s history is its diverse population. During its early years, Taylor attracted a wide range of settlers, including immigrants from Czech, German, Polish, and Mexican backgrounds. Many of these immigrants were drawn to the town because of the agricultural opportunities available, and they helped shape the culture and identity of Taylor.
Czech and German Influence
The Czech and German immigrants played a major role in shaping Taylor’s social and economic landscape. They brought with them their traditions of farming, craftsmanship, and community-building. To this day, you can still see the influence of European architecture in some of the older homes and buildings in the town. Churches, fraternal organizations, and local festivals have long reflected this cultural heritage, including events celebrating Czech polka music, traditional foods, and customs.
Mexican and African American Communities
In addition to European immigrants, Mexican immigrants also became a significant part of Taylor’s community. Many Mexican families were employed as farm laborers, helping to sustain the town’s cotton-based economy. African Americans also played an essential role in Taylor’s development, particularly during the Reconstruction era and beyond. Though both groups faced discrimination and segregation in the town’s earlier days, they have since become integral parts of the Taylor community.
4. Taylor in the Early 20th Century: A Period of Prosperity
The early 1900s were a time of prosperity for Taylor. Cotton production was booming, and the town continued to grow. By the 1920s, Taylor was known as one of the largest cotton markets in the United States, and the railroad continued to play a pivotal role in transporting goods across the country.
Taylor’s downtown area grew alongside this economic success, with new brick buildings, department stores, banks, and theaters being built. Many of these buildings still stand today, contributing to the historic character of downtown Taylor.
Notable Historical Landmarks from the Early 1900s:
- The Taylor National Bank: This building, constructed in 1904, is an architectural gem that still graces downtown Taylor today.
- The Howard Theatre: Opened in 1914, the theater became a cultural hub for the community, offering vaudeville shows, live performances, and movies.
- First Presbyterian Church: Built in 1891, this beautiful church is an example of the religious influence that played a significant role in shaping Taylor’s early community.
5. The Impact of the Great Depression
Like much of the country, Taylor was hit hard by the Great Depression in the 1930s. The cotton industry, which had been the backbone of the local economy, suffered greatly as crop prices plummeted. Many farmers lost their land, and the town saw a period of economic decline.
However, Taylor managed to persevere, largely due to the strength and resilience of its community. Federal programs like the New Deal provided jobs and relief to struggling families, and Taylor’s railroad connections continued to support some economic activity.
6. Post-War Growth and Development
Following World War II, Taylor experienced a resurgence of growth and development. As the U.S. economy recovered and expanded, so did the town. By the 1950s and 60s, Taylor saw an increase in suburban development and new infrastructure projects, including road improvements and the expansion of public services.
During this period, the town’s public schools were integrated, reflecting the broader national movement toward civil rights and equality. While the transition was not without challenges, Taylor worked toward creating a more inclusive community.
7. Taylor in the Late 20th Century: Challenges and Revitalization
The late 20th century brought both challenges and opportunities for Taylor. As the railroad industry declined and the cotton industry shifted, the town had to adapt to a changing economy. Many small towns in Texas faced similar struggles, with businesses closing and populations declining.
However, Taylor began to focus on revitalization efforts in the 1980s and 90s. The town worked to preserve its historic downtown and attract new businesses. By focusing on its rich history, Taylor began to position itself as a destination for tourism, local festivals, and events. Efforts to restore historic buildings and promote local businesses brought new life to downtown Taylor.
8. Taylor Today: A Growing and Thriving Community
Today, Taylor is experiencing a new wave of growth. Its proximity to Austin has made it an attractive location for people looking to enjoy small-town life while still being close to a major city. The arrival of the tech industry in nearby Austin, including major companies like Samsung, has brought new jobs and investment to the area.
While Taylor continues to grow and modernize, it has retained its historic charm and sense of community. Downtown Taylor is home to local restaurants, shops, and businesses, many of which operate in buildings dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Annual Events Celebrating Taylor’s Heritage:
- Blackland Prairie Days: A festival celebrating Taylor’s agricultural roots, with food, live music, and local vendors.
- Taylor International BBQ Cook-Off: A showcase of Texas BBQ, this event brings people from all over to enjoy some of the best barbecue in the state.
Conclusion: The Enduring Spirit of Taylor, Texas
The history of Taylor, Texas is a story of resilience, diversity, and growth. From its beginnings as a railroad town on the Blackland Prairie to its current status as a thriving community on the outskirts of Austin, Taylor has weathered the ups and downs of Texas history with strength and determination.
Today, Taylor is a place where the past meets the present—where historic buildings coexist with modern developments, and where a diverse, welcoming community continues to build on the rich heritage of those who came before. Whether you’re visiting Taylor for a weekend or thinking of making it your home, this small town’s enduring spirit is sure to leave a lasting impression.