Navasota, TX
County: Grimes
History
Navasota is a city located in Grimes County, Texas, in the southeastern part of the state. Its history dates back to the early 1800s when the area was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Karankawa and Bidai tribes. The first European settlers arrived in the area around the 1820s, and the town of Navasota was officially established in 1831.
The name "Navasota" is believed to be derived from the Native American word "nawasoto," which means "to stand on a red sandy bank." The presence of a nearby river with red sandy banks likely influenced the choice of the name for the town.
In the mid-1800s, Navasota began to flourish due to its strategic location along major transportation routes. It was a significant stop on the Houston and Texas Central Railway and the International and Great Northern Railroad, which contributed to the town's economic growth. The railroad brought increased trade and commerce to the area, attracting new businesses and settlers.
During the Civil War, Navasota played a crucial role as a center for supplying Confederate troops with necessary provisions. The town's industries thrived during this time, making it an essential hub for agriculture, lumber, and cotton production.
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Navasota experienced further growth with the discovery of natural gas reserves in nearby fields. This led to the establishment of gas-powered industries such as brick manufacturing, preserving Navasota's economic stability.
Throughout its history, Navasota has been home to people from various ethnic backgrounds, including African Americans, European Americans, and Mexican Americans. The town's diverse population contributed to its cultural vibrancy and led to the development of unique traditions and celebrations.
Over the years, Navasota has preserved its historic charm and maintained several historical buildings, including the Horlock History Center, which houses a museum and library chronicling the area's past. The city also perpetuates its cultural heritage through events like the Navasota Blues Festival and the Texas Renaissance Festival, which attract visitors from around the state.
Today, Navasota continues to be a vibrant city that combines its rich past with modern developments. It serves as a reminder of Texas history and remains an important cultural and economic hub in the region.
Attractions
Fanthorp Inn State Historic Site
A preserved 19th-century stagecoach inn that offers guided tours and hosts special events.
Horlock House Art Gallery & History Museum
A historic home-turned-art-gallery that showcases local artists' works and exhibits on Navasota's history.
Navasota Blues Alley
A vibrant downtown district with shops, galleries, and eateries specializing in the blues music heritage of the area.
Boggy Creek Farm
A working farm that offers educational tours, pick-your-own produce, and occasional farm-to-table dining experiences.
Grimes County Courthouse
A beautifully restored courthouse dating back to 1894, known for its striking architecture.
Pecan Lakes Golf Club
An scenic 18-hole championship golf course featuring rolling fairways and challenging greens.
Blue Bell Aquatic Center
A family-friendly water park with slides, pools, and splash pads.
Navasota Theatre Alliance
A community theater group that hosts various performances throughout the year showcasing local talent.
Navasota River Halls
An event venue located in a historic warehouse, hosting weddings, receptions, and other special occasions.
Navasota Municipal Park
A green space with facilities for picnicking, playgrounds, walking trails, and sports fields.
Climate
Navasota, TX has a humid subtropical climate. Summers in Navasota are typically hot and humid, with average high temperatures reaching the mid to upper 90s °F (35-37 °C). The evenings bring some relief with cooler temperatures in the 70s °F (around 25-27 °C). Heatwaves with temperatures exceeding 100 °F (38 °C) are not uncommon during the hottest months of July and August.
Winters in Navasota are generally mild, with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to mid-60s °F (12-18 °C). However, temperatures can occasionally drop below freezing at night, and snowfall is rare but not unheard of. Rainfall is spread fairly evenly throughout the year, with May and October typically being the wettest months.
Spring and fall seasons are generally pleasant in Navasota, with mild temperatures and occasional rain showers. These transitional periods bring comfortable temperatures in the 70s to 80s °F (25-30 °C) during the day and cooler evenings.
Overall, Navasota experiences a humid climate with mild to hot temperatures throughout the year, making it important to be prepared for both heat and occasional cold snaps.
Neighborhoods
Navasota, Texas is a small city located in Grimes County, approximately 20 miles southeast of College Station. While the city itself is relatively compact, with a total area of around 7 square miles, it is made up of several distinct neighborhoods.
Downtown Navasota
This is the heart of the city, where one can find the historic downtown district. The area is known for its charming buildings, some of which date back to the late 1800s. Downtown Navasota offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and local businesses, making it a popular destination for both residents and visitors.
Sunny Furman
Located on the western side of Navasota, Sunny Furman is a neighborhood characterized by single-family homes and apartments. It is a relatively quiet and residential area, attracting families and individuals looking for a suburban lifestyle. The neighborhood offers a mix of housing options, ranging from older, more affordable homes to newer, upscale developments.
Magnolia Springs
Situated on the eastern outskirts of Navasota, Magnolia Springs is a neighborhood known for its spacious, rural-style homes. Many properties in this area are surrounded by large yards or sit on oversized lots, providing residents with privacy and room to spread out. Magnolia Springs appeals to those who seek a more secluded and tranquil living environment.
Pecan Lakes
Located on the southern edge of Navasota, Pecan Lakes is a planned residential community centered around a beautiful 18-hole golf course. This neighborhood offers a mix of single-family homes and low-maintenance townhouses, attracting golf enthusiasts and retirees. Residents of Pecan Lakes enjoy access to various amenities, including a clubhouse, swimming pool, and walking trails.
West Chester
West Chester is a neighborhood situated in the northwestern part of Navasota. It is primarily a residential area with a mix of older homes and new construction. West Chester offers a quieter living experience while still being conveniently close to downtown Navasota and its amenities.
These are just a few of the neighborhoods that make up Navasota, Texas. Each neighborhood has its own unique characteristics and appeal, allowing residents to find the perfect place to call home in this small but vibrant city.