Poteet, TX
County: Atascosa
History
Poteet is a small city located in Atascosa County, Texas, United States. The city was named after its founder, Francis Marion Poteet, a rancher who settled in the area in the late 1800s. The history of Poteet dates back to the earliest settlement in the region.
Before European settlers arrived, the Poteet area was inhabited by various indigenous tribes, including the Coahuiltecans and Lipan Apache. It was a rural and sparsely populated area until the mid-1800s when the region began to attract settlers.
Francis Marion Poteet purchased land in the area in the 1880s and established ranching operations. As more settlers arrived, the community grew, and a post office was established in 1886. The area began to develop as an agricultural center due to its fertile soil and favorable climate.
The arrival of the railroad in 1899 further contributed to the growth and prosperity of Poteet. The railroad allowed for easier transportation of agricultural products, particularly fruits and vegetables. Poteet became known as the "Strawberry Capital of Texas" due to its extensive strawberry farming.
The Annual Poteet Strawberry Festival, first held in 1948, is now a major attraction for residents and visitors. It celebrates the rich agricultural heritage of the region, with various events, rides, live music, and of course, an abundant supply of strawberries.
Over the years, Poteet has continued to evolve, expanding its commercial and residential areas. The city's economy relies on agriculture, including strawberry and various vegetable farming. In recent decades, it has also become a commuter town for those working in nearby San Antonio.
Poteet has faced challenges such as natural disasters, including hurricanes and floods, but has always managed to rebuild and thrive. The community has a strong sense of unity and pride in its heritage, as well as a commitment to preserving its rural character.
Today, Poteet maintains its reputation as a small, close-knit community with a rich agricultural history. It embraces both its past and its present, with residents cherishing its rural roots while also adapting to modern times.
Attractions
The Poteet Strawberry Festival
A popular annual event that celebrates the strawberry harvest in Poteet. It includes live music, carnival rides, and various strawberry-themed activities.
Poteet Canyon Park
A scenic park with walking trails, picnic areas, and a playground. It offers a peaceful escape for nature lovers.
Poteet Country Winery
A local winery that offers wine tastings and tours. Visitors can sample a variety of wines made from locally grown grapes.
Poteet Flea Market
One of the largest flea markets in South Texas, it offers a wide range of unique items, antiques, crafts, and food.
Poteet Strawberry Farm
Visitors can pick their own fresh strawberries during the harvest season (typically from late February to early May). It's a fun activity for families and strawberry enthusiasts.
Schott Park
A community park with sports fields, a basketball court, a swimming pool, and a skate park. It's a popular spot for outdoor activities and relaxation.
Poteet Theatre
This local community theater hosts various productions throughout the year, including plays, musicals, and performances by local talent.
Poteet Pottery
A pottery studio and gallery that showcases and sells handcrafted pottery pieces. Visitors can explore the artwork and learn about the pottery-making process.
San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
Although not directly in Poteet, it is located nearby and features five Spanish colonial missions, including the famous Alamo. It offers a glimpse into the history and heritage of the region.
Medina River Natural Area
Another nearby attraction, it offers hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails along the scenic Medina River. It's a great place for outdoor enthusiasts to explore and enjoy nature.
Climate
Poteet, Texas, has a humid subtropical climate, typical of many areas in the southern United States. Summers in Poteet are hot and humid with average high temperatures in the mid to upper 90s Fahrenheit (35-37 degrees Celsius). Heatwaves are common, and temperatures can sometimes exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius). Poteet also experiences occasional thunderstorms during the summer months, which provide relief from the heat.
Winters in Poteet are generally mild, with average high temperatures ranging from the low 60s to the low 70s Fahrenheit (16-23 degrees Celsius). However, colder temperatures can occur, especially during the night, with occasional frost and temperatures dipping below freezing. Snowfall is extremely rare in Poteet.
Spring and fall seasons in Poteet are characterized by mild to warm temperatures, with pleasant weather overall. Average high temperatures range from the upper 70s to the low 90s Fahrenheit (25-33 degrees Celsius) during these seasons. Spring is known for its blooming wildflowers, while fall brings about the changing colors of leaves on trees.
Rainfall is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year in Poteet. The wetter months tend to be May and September, with average precipitation around 4-5 inches (10-13 cm). Summer months also receive a fair amount of rainfall due to thunderstorms. The driest months are generally November and January, with average precipitation around 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm).
Overall, Poteet experiences a hot and humid climate during the summer months and relatively mild winters. The area receives a moderate amount of rainfall throughout the year, making it suitable for agriculture, including the famous Poteet Strawberry Festival held annually.
Neighborhoods
Poteet, Texas is a small city located in Atascosa County, which is part of the San Antonio Metropolitan Area. Though Poteet itself is quite small in size, it has a few distinct neighborhoods that make up the community. Here are some of the main neighborhoods in Poteet:
Downtown Poteet
The heart of the city, Downtown Poteet is the commercial and cultural center. It features small businesses, shops, and local services. This area is home to the Poteet Strawberry Festival, an annual event that attracts visitors from all over the region.
Poteet Acres
Poteet Acres is a residential neighborhood consisting mostly of single-family homes. It offers a mix of older properties and newer constructions. The neighborhood is known for its quiet streets and a sense of community.
Poteet Original Townsite
Located near Downtown Poteet, the Poteet Original Townsite is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city. It has historical significance and features a variety of architectural styles, including Victorian and Craftsman homes.
Shamrock Ranch
Shamrock Ranch is a more rural neighborhood located on the outskirts of Poteet. Characterized by larger plots of land and a country atmosphere, this area is popular among those seeking a more peaceful and remote lifestyle.
Poteet Country
Poteet Country is a suburban neighborhood located just outside of the city center. It offers a mix of residential properties, including single-family homes and some multi-family developments. Poteet Country provides a suburban lifestyle while still being close to the amenities of the city.
These are just a few of the main neighborhoods that make up Poteet. The city's small size means that residents can easily access its various amenities and attractions no matter the neighborhood they reside in.