McGregor, TX

McGregor, Texas is a small city located in McLennan County, Texas. The town was first settled in the 1850s and was originally named McGregor Springs after Archibald McGregor, an early settler and brother-in-law of a local landowner.

In 1882, the town was officially incorporated as McGregor when the Missouri-Kansas-Texas (MKT) Railroad established a rail line through the area. The railroad played a significant role in the town's development, bringing in new residents, businesses, and opportunities. McGregor quickly became a bustling railroad town, and the railroad provided a major source of employment and transportation for the community.

During the early 20th century, McGregor continued to grow and prosper. Several industries, including a cheese factory, cotton industries, and a telephone company, were established in the town. Additionally, McGregor became a center for agricultural trade, with farmers bringing their crops to be transported by rail.

In the 1960s, the space program in the neighboring city of Waco brought significant changes to McGregor. The nearby McGregor Industrial Park became the site of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA) Michoud Assembly Facility, where space shuttle external fuel tanks were produced. The increased presence of the aerospace industry in the region created new job opportunities and helped to boost the local economy.

Another major development in McGregor's history occurred in the 1980s when the Texas A&M University System opened a new branch institution, Texas A&M University-Central Texas, in nearby Killeen. The university's presence in the region has had a positive impact on McGregor, attracting students, faculty, and businesses to the area.

Today, McGregor continues to be a thriving community with a population of around 5,200 residents. It maintains its small-town charm while benefitting from its proximity to larger cities like Waco and Killeen. McGregor's rich history, from its early days as a railroad town to its role in the space industry, has shaped its identity and contributes to its sense of community.

Magnolia Table

A famous restaurant owned by Chip and Joanna Gaines, popular hosts of HGTV's "Fixer Upper." It is known for its delicious breakfast and brunch options.

Amsler Park

A beautiful park located in the heart of McGregor, featuring lush greenery, playground areas, picnic spots, and a splash pad for kids.

McGregor Historical Museum

A small, local museum that showcases the history and heritage of McGregor through exhibits and artifacts.

Antiques and Boutiques

McGregor has several antique shops and boutiques where visitors can browse through a variety of unique items, including vintage furniture, clothing, and collectibles.

Woodway Park

Although not directly in McGregor, Woodway Park is located just a short drive away and offers beautiful walking trails, picnic areas, boat ramps, and a beach area on Lake Waco.

Old 84 Swap Meet

A popular flea market and swap meet held in McGregor, where vendors gather to sell a wide range of items, including antiques, collectibles, crafts, and handmade products.

Crawford Depot and Community Center

Located in nearby Crawford (just a few miles from McGregor), this historic depot has been converted into a community center and is worth a visit to learn about the area's past.

Highland Park

A small park near downtown McGregor, ideal for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. It features a shaded gazebo, benches, and a large open green space.

Dr. Pepper Museum

Located in nearby Waco (around a 20-minute drive from McGregor), the Dr. Pepper Museum is a must-visit for fans of the famous soda. History exhibits, interactive displays, and a gift shop are all available at this iconic museum.

Lake Waco

McGregor is conveniently located near Lake Waco, which offers various recreational activities like fishing, boating, swimming, and camping. The lake provides a beautiful backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts.

McGregor, Texas has a humid subtropical climate. The city experiences hot, humid summers and mild winters. Here are some key characteristics of the climate in McGregor:

Summers

McGregor's summers are typically long, hot, and humid. Average high temperatures range from the mid-90s°F (35-37°C) in June, July, and August. Heatwaves with temperatures exceeding 100°F (38°C) occasionally occur. Overnight lows during the summer usually remain above 70°F (21°C).

Winter

Winters in McGregor are relatively mild compared to many other parts of the United States. Average high temperatures range from the low to mid-60s°F (15-18°C) during December and January. Frost occurs occasionally during the winter months, but temperatures rarely dip below freezing. Overnight lows generally range from the mid-30s°F to mid-40s°F (2-8°C).

Precipitation

McGregor receives a moderate amount of precipitation throughout the year. Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly, although spring tends to be a bit wetter than the rest of the year. Annual rainfall averages around 38 inches (965 mm). Thunderstorms are common during the summer months, which can occasionally bring heavy rainfall.

Severe Weather

Like many parts of Texas, McGregor is prone to severe weather events. Thunderstorms and the associated hazards of lightning, hail, and strong winds are relatively common during the summer. The area also experiences occasional severe weather events such as tornadoes and heavy storms with localized flooding.

Wind

Wind speeds in McGregor average around 10-15 mph (16-24 kph) but can occasionally be stronger during storms or thunderstorms.

Overall, McGregor, Texas has a subtropical climate characterized by hot summers, mild winters, and a moderate amount of rainfall throughout the year.

McGregor, Texas is a small city located in McLennan County, with a population of approximately 5,000 people. While it may not have numerous distinct neighborhoods like larger cities, there are still a few areas that residents identify as distinct parts of McGregor. Here are some of the neighborhoods in McGregor:

Downtown McGregor

The heart of the city, downtown McGregor features historic buildings, local businesses, and shops. It has a charming small-town feel, with tree-lined streets and a close-knit community.

McGregor Park

Located near the downtown area, McGregor Park is a recreational area that offers green spaces, playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails. It's a popular spot for outdoor activities and family gatherings.

North McGregor

This neighborhood is located to the north of the downtown area and is characterized by a mix of residential and commercial properties. It is home to several local businesses and schools.

South McGregor

Situated to the south of downtown, South McGregor is primarily a residential area with a mix of single-family homes and apartments. It's a quiet neighborhood with a suburban feel.

West McGregor

Located west of downtown, this neighborhood features a mix of residential and agricultural areas. With its larger properties and open spaces, it offers a more rural atmosphere compared to other parts of the city.

East McGregor

Found east of downtown, this neighborhood is primarily residential, with a mix of older and newer homes. It is close to parks and recreational areas, making it an attractive area for families.

Overall, while McGregor may not have an extensive range of distinct neighborhoods, it offers a blend of historic downtown charm, suburban residential areas, and more rural surroundings.