Wharton, TX

Wharton is a city located in Wharton County, Texas, United States. Its history dates back to the early 19th century when Stephen F. Austin, often referred to as the "Father of Texas," was working to settle the region. The area where Wharton is now located was initially part of the Mexican land grant called "El Campo de la Espada," which was awarded to William Kincheloe and Samuel May Williams in 1827.

The first settlers began to arrive in the Wharton area in the early 1830s. The town itself was founded in 1831 and named "Golconda" after a fabled city of gold. However, the name was soon changed to "Wharton" in honor of brothers John and William Wharton, who were leading figures in the Texas Revolution.

Wharton grew steadily and in the 1850s became an important trading center due to its location on the Colorado River. The town became the county seat in 1846 when Wharton County was established. Wharton's economy was primarily agriculture-based, with cotton and cattle being the major industries.

During the Civil War, Wharton served as a supply depot for Confederate forces. After the war, the town experienced a period of growth and development. In the late 19th century, railroads were built to connect Wharton to Houston and other major cities, further boosting its economic prospects.

By the early 20th century, Wharton had become a vibrant community with a thriving downtown area. It had various businesses, including banks, hotels, and stores. The city continued to expand and modernize, and by 1920, it had a population of over 5,000.

Over the years, Wharton has faced challenges such as floods and economic downturns, but it has always managed to rebuild and move forward. Today, Wharton retains its small-town charm while also embracing modern development and diversifying its economy. It is home to a variety of industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, and energy.

Wharton also boasts a rich cultural heritage. The city has many historical landmarks and buildings that reflect its history, including the Wharton County Courthouse, which was built in 1940 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

In summary, Wharton, Texas, has a long and storied history that spans over 150 years. From its early beginnings as a trading post on the Colorado River to its growth into a thriving city, Wharton has evolved while still maintaining its ties to its agricultural roots.

Wharton County Historical Museum

A museum showcasing the history and heritage of Wharton County through exhibits, artifacts, and photographs.

20th Century Technology Museum

A museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing 20th-century technologies and innovations.

El Campo Museum of Natural History

A museum featuring a collection of fossils, minerals, and artifacts related to natural history.

Riverfront Park

A scenic park situated on the banks of the Colorado River, offering picnic areas, walking trails, and fishing spots.

Wharton County Courthouse

A historic courthouse building with beautiful architecture and a functioning courthouse.

Wharton County Fairgrounds

A venue hosting various events throughout the year, including a county fair, rodeos, and agricultural shows.

Wharton Civic Center

A multipurpose venue hosting concerts, theater performances, and community events.

Wharton County Youth Fair

An annual fair showcasing livestock exhibits, rodeo competitions, and carnival rides.

Wharton County Junior College

A community college offering cultural events, art exhibitions, and theater productions.

Unity Theatre

A regional theater company presenting a variety of live performances, including plays, musicals, and comedy shows.

Wharton, Texas experiences a humid subtropical climate. It is characterized by hot and humid summers, mild winters, and moderate rainfall throughout the year. Here are some details about the different seasons in Wharton:

Summer (June-August)

Summers in Wharton are hot and humid, with daytime temperatures averaging in the high 90s°F (35-37°C). Heatwaves occasionally push the temperatures above 100°F (38°C). The humidity can make it feel even hotter. Thunderstorms are common during this season, bringing heavy rainfall and occasional flash floods.

Autumn (September-November)

Autumn in Wharton is warm and pleasant. Temperatures gradually cool down, ranging from the high 80s°F (around 31°C) in September to the mid-60s°F (around 18°C) in November. Rainfall decreases during this season, but occasional precipitation is still possible.

Winter (December-February)

Winters in Wharton are mild, with temperatures averaging in the upper 50s°F (around 14°C) during the day and dropping into the mid-30s°F (around 1-4°C) at night. Frost is infrequent, and snow is extremely rare. While winters are relatively dry, occasional rain showers can occur.

Spring (March-May)

Spring in Wharton is a transition period characterized by increasing temperatures and occasional rainfall. Temperatures steadily rise from the high 60s°F (around 20°C) in March to the low 80s°F (around 27°C) in May. Thunderstorms become more frequent, and the area experiences its highest precipitation in late spring.

Overall, Wharton, TX has a warm climate with mild winters and hot, humid summers. The moderate rainfall throughout the year ensures greenery and vegetation in the region.

Wharton, TX, is a small city located in Wharton County, Texas. While it may not have a large number of distinct neighborhoods, there are a few areas within the city that have their own unique characteristics. Here are some of the notable neighborhoods in Wharton:

Downtown

The heart of the city, Wharton's downtown area is where you will find various shops, restaurants, and businesses. It showcases some historic buildings and serves as the main commercial hub of the city.

El Campo/US 59

Located on the eastern side of Wharton, this neighborhood is primarily known for its proximity to US 59, a major highway that connects Wharton with neighboring towns and cities. This area is home to several businesses, hotels, and restaurants catering to travelers passing through the region.

East Bernard Road

On the northwestern side of Wharton, you'll find the East Bernard Road neighborhood. This area offers a mix of residential and commercial properties, with easy access to Highway 60. It has numerous residential subdivisions with diverse housing options.

Newgulf

Located just southwest of Wharton, Newgulf is a historic neighborhood that was once a company town for a local sugar mill. Although this neighborhood is smaller, it offers a unique charm with its well-preserved historic homes and buildings.

Boling-Iago

Southeast of Wharton, the Boling-Iago neighborhood is not technically part of Wharton itself but is nearby and often considered part of the greater community. This area has a rural atmosphere with some agricultural activity and a few residential areas.

It's important to note that Wharton is a relatively small town, so the neighborhoods listed above are not as distinct as those found in larger cities. Nonetheless, each area offers its own character and amenities for residents and visitors to enjoy.