Tag Archives: Texas Towns

Today in Texas History – April 1

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From the Annals of the Small Towns –   In 1881, the town of Buda was formally established. The name is believed to have originated from the Spanish word viuda, meaning “widow.”  Here’s what Buda has to say for itself today:

Just 20 minutes south of Austin, off the beaten path, lies Buda, Texas — a friendly city with small town charm and big plans for the future that are equal parts pragmatic and idyllic. Steeped in area history, Buda holds fast to the values and rich potential that made it a choice location for the first settlers of the 1880s. The same qualities that made the city attractive in the past hold true today.

Safe, affordable, wholesome Buda is a city centered on community, an oasis of country calm at the edge of civilization, unspoiled by the pace of Austin and San Antonio’s big city ways. Put your feet up, and breathe easy — Buda’s city fathers have seen to it that its historic flavor, laid-back lifestyle, and family values will be protected and preserved for the next generation.

What’s Next – the Official State Capital for Lung Disease?

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Texas cities are hankering to get an “Official State Capital” designation for a variety of reasons.  The Legislature is generally eager to hand these out.  myhighplains.com reports on some of the current efforts to achieve immortal fame for some small Texas towns.  For the curious, the Texas State Library and Archives Commission maintains a list of official state capital designations which have been approved by the Legislature.

Jasper wants to be the official Butterfly Capital of Texas; Hico covets the nod for official Steak Capital; and Jim Hogg County wants to be known as the Vaquero Capital.

Hoping to add Hico to that list, state Rep. J.D. Sheffield, R-Gatesville, told the committee the city of 1,300, is home to the annual Texas Steak Cookoff, which draws about 7,000 people one Saturday every year.

“We depend on tourism. It’s a very integral part of us surviving,” said Mike James, executive director of the Hico Economic Development Board.

Several members of the committee grilled Sheffield on his proposal. State Rep. Lyle Larson, R-San Antonio, asked Sheffield, a physician, if he encouraged patients to consume a lot of red meat. Sheffield said Hico was a “great place to go if you love slices of dead cow in various stages of preparation.”

In the interest of full disclosure, Red fully supports designating Hico as the Official Steak Capital of Texas.  Hico hosts the Texas Steak Cookoff on the third Saturday every May.  Red and family have participated for the last several years – even sporting a 7th Place finish a few years ago.  The Cookoff is a lot of fun and helps boost the Hico economy.