Donna, TX
County: Hidalgo
History
Donna is a city located in Hidalgo County, Texas, United States. The city's history traces back to the early 1900s when the area was mainly used for agriculture and ranching.
In 1904, the St. Louis, Brownsville, and Mexico Railway passed through the area, which played a significant role in the development of the town. The railway company named the town after Daniel Webster Anthony, a prominent newspaper publisher from Kansas, who goes by the nickname "Donna" in the town. The community that formed around the railway station became known as Donna.
Donna experienced rapid growth in the early 20th century due to the rich agricultural land in the region. Cotton, citrus fruits, and vegetables were the major crops grown in the area, which attracted many farmers and agricultural workers to settle in Donna. The establishment of irrigation systems further boosted agricultural production.
Throughout the years, Donna's economy continued to rely heavily on agriculture. The city saw several developments and improvements, including the establishment of schools, churches, and businesses to support the growing population. The construction of roads and highways also enhanced connectivity to nearby towns and cities.
In the 1940s, the city began to diversify its economy and attract industries beyond agriculture. The establishment of the Donna Irrigation District and the expansion of irrigation systems facilitated the growth of new businesses and industries.
Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, Donna witnessed multiple infrastructure developments, including the construction of a new city hall, parks, and recreational facilities. The establishment of the South Texas Independent School District also improved education in the area.
Today, Donna continues to be a predominantly agricultural community, but it has also seen some industrial growth. The city is known for its production of fruits and vegetables, particularly citrus fruits such as grapefruits and oranges. It also hosts the Donna International Bridge, which connects the city to Rio Bravo, Tamaulipas, Mexico.
The population of Donna, TX has steadily increased over the years. As of the 2020 census, the city had an estimated population of over 17,000 residents. Donna remains an important center of agriculture and a vibrant community in Hidalgo County, Texas.
Attractions
Donna-Rio Bravo International Bridge
A bridge that links the city of Donna to Rio Bravo, Tamaulipas in Mexico.
Rio Grande Valley Premium Outlets
A shopping destination with numerous brand outlet stores.
Donna Hooks Fletcher Museum
A local history museum showcasing artifacts related to the city's heritage and culture.
Wet Zone Waterpark
A family-friendly water park featuring slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and other attractions.
Valley Nature Center
A nature education center with trails, gardens, and exhibits showcasing the region's flora and fauna.
Donna Lake
A small lake providing opportunities for fishing and boating.
Coots Lake RV Resort
A recreational vehicle park with amenities such as swimming pools, sports courts, and fishing.
Monte Cristo Golf & Country Club
A golf course and country club offering an 18-hole course, driving range, and clubhouse facilities.
Anzalduas Park
A riverside park with picnic areas, walking trails, and birdwatching opportunities along the Rio Grande.
World Birding Center
A network of birding sites in the Rio Grande Valley, including the nearby Estero Llano Grande State Park and Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge.
Climate
Donna, TX is located in the southern region of Texas, often referred to as South Texas. It has a subtropical climate characterized by hot and humid summers and mild winters.
Summers in Donna are typically very hot, with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-90s to low 100s Fahrenheit (35-40°C). The heat is often accompanied by high humidity levels, making it feel even hotter. Heatwaves and occasional temperatures above 110°F (43°C) are not uncommon in this region. Summers also bring frequent thunderstorms and occasional heavy rainfall.
Winters in Donna are generally mild and pleasant. Average high temperatures during this season range from the low 60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit (15-24°C). Frost is infrequent, and snowfall is extremely rare. However, cold fronts from the north can occasionally bring cooler temperatures and occasional freezing conditions for short periods of time.
Spring and fall seasons in Donna are relatively short but enjoyable. Spring is warm and humid, with temperatures gradually rising from the 70s to the 90s Fahrenheit (24-32°C). Fall is generally milder, with temperatures slowly cooling down from the 90s to the 70s Fahrenheit (32-24°C). These transitional seasons bring occasional rain showers and thunderstorms.
The region around Donna experiences a higher humidity level compared to other parts of Texas. This higher humidity, combined with the hot temperatures, can make summer heat feel more extreme. Additionally, Donna is prone to hurricanes, as it is located near the Gulf Coast. The hurricane season in this area typically runs from June to November, with the most active period being from August to October.
Overall, Donna, TX has a subtropical climate with hot and humid summers, mild winters, and short transitional seasons.
Neighborhoods
Donna, TX is a small city located in Hidalgo County, Texas. It is known for its agricultural industry and close-knit community. While Donna is not divided into distinct neighborhoods, there are a few notable areas within the city:
Downtown Donna
The heart of the city, Downtown Donna is the main commercial and cultural hub. It features local businesses, shops, restaurants, and community events. Here, you can find historic buildings and enjoy the small-town charm.
South Donna
This area is primarily residential, with a mix of single-family homes and apartment complexes. South Donna offers affordable housing options and easy access to schools, parks, and the city's amenities.
East Donna
Located towards the eastern part of the city, this area is also mainly residential. It is characterized by quiet streets lined with charming homes. East Donna enjoys close proximity to schools, parks, and community facilities.
North Donna
This neighborhood is home to the Donna Independent School District, including several schools such as Donna High School and Salazar Elementary. North Donna is a family-friendly area with a suburban feel, featuring residential streets with a mix of newer and older homes.
West Donna
Situated on the western edge of the city, this neighborhood is more rural in nature, with larger plots of land and a mix of residential and agricultural areas. It offers a quieter, more peaceful environment and easy access to the surrounding countryside.
Overall, Donna, TX is a tight-knit community with a variety of neighborhoods that offer a range of housing options and amenities to its residents.