Smithville, TX

Smithville, Texas is a small city located in Bastrop County, Texas, in the United States. The history of Smithville dates back to the early 1800s when the area was primarily inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Tonkawa and Comanche tribes.

In 1827, Thomas Gazley became the first Anglo-American settler in the area, establishing a homestead near present-day Smithville. As more settlers arrived, the community began to grow, and in 1829, a land grant of 442 acres was officially issued to establish the town. The town was named after William Smith, an early settler and a prominent political figure in the area.

During the mid-19th century, Smithville experienced significant growth due to its location along the Old San Antonio Road, which was a major trade and transportation route. In 1872, the town became the terminus for the Houston and Texas Central Railway, further enhancing its economic growth.

The 20th century brought several changes to Smithville. In 1921, a destructive fire swept through the town, destroying much of its commercial district. However, the town quickly rebuilt and prospered. In the 1920s, the discovery of oil resulted in an oil boom, which brought significant economic development to Smithville.

Smithville gained national recognition when it was chosen as the filming location for the 1998 film "Hope Floats" starring Sandra Bullock. The movie's success brought attention to the town and boosted tourism.

Today, Smithville continues to maintain its small-town charm while embracing economic development. It is known for its historic downtown area, which features well-preserved Victorian-style buildings. The city also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, attracting visitors from near and far.

As of the 2020 census, Smithville has a population of around 4,042 people. It has become a popular destination for those seeking a quieter escape from the bustling cities while still having access to modern amenities.

Central Texas Museum of Automotive History

This museum showcases a collection of vintage and classic automobiles, including rare models and memorabilia.

Railroad Museum

Located at the Smithville Historical Society, this museum displays exhibits related to the town's railroad history, featuring photographs, artifacts, and model trains.

Smithville Heritage Society Museum

Housed in a restored 1899 building, this museum presents the history of Smithville and its surrounding area through exhibits and displays.

Buescher State Park

Just outside Smithville, this state park offers opportunities for camping, hiking, fishing, and picnicking. It is known for its scenic trails and beautiful lakes.

Smithville Film Alley

This charming cinema is located in the heart of downtown Smithville and features both new releases and classic movies. It gained popularity due to the filming of movies like "Hope Floats" and "The Tree of Life" in Smithville.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Situated in Veterans Park, this memorial pays tribute to the local men and women who served during the Vietnam War. Visitors can pay their respects and learn about the sacrifices made by these brave individuals.

Historic Downtown Smithville

Take a stroll through the historic downtown area and explore its colorful buildings, quaint shops, cafes, and antique stores. The town has been used as a backdrop for several movies and is known for its picturesque charm.

Smithville Recreation Center

This community center offers various recreational activities, including a pool, sports courts, and fitness classes. It provides a space for both residents and visitors to engage in physical activities and have fun.

Kayaking and Fishing on the Colorado River

The nearby Colorado River allows for recreational activities like kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Take advantage of the beautiful scenery and enjoy a day out on the water.

Birding

Smithville is situated in a rich birding area, attracting birdwatchers from all over. Several parks and nature reserves in the vicinity offer excellent opportunities for observing local and migratory bird species in their natural habitat.

Smithville, Texas experiences a humid subtropical climate. Summers in Smithville are typically hot and humid with temperatures often exceeding 90°F (32°C). The high levels of humidity make it feel even hotter during summer months. July is usually the warmest month, with average highs around 96°F (36°C).

Winters in Smithville are generally mild with temperatures rarely dipping below freezing. January is the coolest month, with average highs around 60°F (15°C) and average lows around 39°F (4°C). Snowfall is unusual in Smithville, and the area typically only receives a light dusting or none at all.

Spring and fall seasons are known for their transitional weather. In spring, temperatures gradually increase with occasional rain showers, and the weather can change rapidly. Fall brings cooler temperatures with comfortable weather. Smithville receives the most rain during May and has a moderately high precipitation level throughout the year.

The city experiences occasional severe weather such as thunderstorms, hailstorms, and tornadoes. The peak tornado season is generally in the spring, but tornadoes can occur at any time of the year. It is important for residents to stay attuned to weather alerts and have a plan in place during severe weather events.

Overall, Smithville, TX has a warm and humid climate with hot summers and mild winters.

Smithville, TX is a small town located in Bastrop County, Texas. It is known for its charming and friendly community, as well as its natural beauty. While Smithville does not have distinct neighborhoods, it has various areas that attract different residents. Here are some key areas of interest in Smithville:

Downtown Smithville

The heart of the town, downtown Smithville, is known for its historic buildings, boutique shops, and local restaurants. It exudes a small-town feel and is the social hub for community events and festivals.

Riverbend

Situated along the Colorado River, Riverbend is a neighborhood that offers beautiful waterfront properties and scenic views. Residents can enjoy outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and camping.

Hilltop

As the name suggests, Hilltop is an elevated area that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. It is a quiet and peaceful neighborhood, primarily consisting of residential properties.

Smithville Park

This area is home to the city's recreational facilities, including sports fields, picnic areas, and walking trails. Smithville Park is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts and families.

New Town

Located on the outskirts of Smithville, the New Town area has seen recent residential and commercial development. It offers newcomers the opportunity to build new homes and contribute to the expansion of the town.

Rural Areas

Smithville is surrounded by beautiful rural landscapes and farmlands. Living in these areas provides residents with a more secluded and countryside lifestyle.

Overall, Smithville offers a mix of historic and newly developed areas with diverse features and characteristics. The town's close-knit community and scenic surroundings make it an attractive place to live for those seeking a slower pace of life.