Cities and Towns in Briscoe County, Texas
Founded in 1876, Briscoe County is one of 254 counties in the state of Texas. Historically, Briscoe County was formed from Bexar County. The city of Silverton is the county seat. With FIPS code of 45, Briscoe County has a population of 1,403 and area of 900 square miles (2,331 km²).
List of all cities in Briscoe County, TX alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Quitaque, TX | 79255 | 806 |
Silverton, TX | 79257 | 806 |
Major Cities and Towns in Briscoe County, Texas
Silverton
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 0.5 square miles
- Population: 1,500+
- Zip Codes: 79257
- Latitude: 34.3952° N
- Longitude: 101.3717° W
Location and History:
Silverton is a small town located in the central part of Briscoe County, Texas, approximately 90 miles southeast of Amarillo. Founded in 1901, Silverton was established as a railroad stop for the Fort Worth and Denver City Railway, which played a crucial role in the development of the town. The town’s early economy was based on agriculture, particularly cotton farming, and the railroad facilitated the shipment of goods to larger markets. Over the years, Silverton became a local hub for ranching, cotton, and oil production. The town’s population peaked in the early 20th century, but like many rural towns in Texas, Silverton’s population declined as farming and industrial activity shifted away from the area. Despite this, Silverton has maintained its historical charm and small-town atmosphere. The town remains a central part of Briscoe County, with local businesses and services catering to the surrounding agricultural community. Silverton’s location in the heart of Texas’s high plains gives it a unique rural character, and its proximity to larger cities like Amarillo ensures that residents can access urban amenities while enjoying a quieter, country lifestyle.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Silverton is served by the Silverton Independent School District, which includes Silverton High School and Silverton Elementary School. The school district is known for providing a close-knit educational experience, where students benefit from small class sizes and a strong sense of community. The Silverton Lions are the mascot of the local high school, and the town takes great pride in its sports teams. Key landmarks in Silverton include the Silverton Depot, a preserved railroad station that serves as a reminder of the town’s railroad history. The Briscoe County Courthouse, located in the nearby town of Silverton, is an architectural gem and a symbol of the county’s governance. The Cottle’s Rest is another popular site, a historical marker that celebrates the area’s ranching history. Silverton also celebrates its rich history with annual events like the Silverton Heritage Festival, which brings together locals and visitors to celebrate the town’s agricultural roots, local food, and crafts. Silverton is a gateway to the region’s natural beauty, offering access to scenic landscapes and outdoor activities like hunting and fishing in the surrounding plains.
Quitaque
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 1.0 square miles
- Population: 200+
- Zip Codes: 79255
- Latitude: 34.3479° N
- Longitude: 101.3700° W
Location and History:
Quitaque is a small town situated in the northern part of Briscoe County, Texas, about 85 miles southeast of Amarillo and near the Caprock Canyons State Park. The town was founded in 1904 and was named after a local creek, Quitaque Creek, which runs through the area. Historically, Quitaque developed as a ranching and farming community, with cattle and cotton being the primary industries. The town benefited from the establishment of the Panhandle and Santa Fe Railway, which connected Quitaque to other parts of Texas. However, with the decline of the railroad and agricultural shifts, Quitaque saw a gradual population decline, much like many small towns in rural Texas. Despite this, Quitaque remains a close-knit community that retains a strong local culture and agricultural heritage. Today, the town serves as a quiet rural retreat, attracting visitors who are looking to explore the natural beauty of the Caprock Canyons and other nearby attractions. The town’s small size and rural charm continue to make it a unique place in the Texas Panhandle.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Quitaque is served by the Quitaque Independent School District, which includes Quitaque High School and Quitaque Elementary School. The district is known for its commitment to providing a strong educational foundation despite the town’s small size. Quitaque has a strong sense of community, with local events like the annual Quitaque Rodeo drawing people from around the region to celebrate local culture, agricultural practices, and rodeo traditions. Major landmarks in Quitaque include the Caprock Canyons State Park, which is located nearby and is one of the most notable natural attractions in the area. The park offers hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing opportunities, as well as a chance to see the famous Texas State Bison Herd. The Quitaque Depot, which once served as a stop on the Panhandle and Santa Fe Railway, is another historical landmark in the town, and it provides insight into Quitaque’s past as a railroad community. With its scenic surroundings and rich history, Quitaque is an ideal destination for those interested in outdoor recreation and Texas heritage.
Lakeview
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 0.3 square miles
- Population: 100+
- Zip Codes: 79239
- Latitude: 34.3564° N
- Longitude: 101.5944° W
Location and History:
Lakeview is a small, unincorporated community located in the southwestern part of Briscoe County, near Lake Mackenzie. The town’s history is tied to the development of the lake, which was created in the early 20th century as a water reservoir for the surrounding area. The presence of the lake made Lakeview a popular destination for fishing, boating, and recreation, and the small community grew as a result of these activities. Over the years, Lakeview remained a quiet, rural community, with residents primarily engaged in agriculture, ranching, and recreational tourism. The town’s population has remained small, and much of the area’s economic activity is based around tourism and the services needed to support visitors to the lake. Lakeview’s location along the lake gives it a tranquil, picturesque setting, and its rural atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for people looking to escape the hustle and bustle of larger cities. Though small, Lakeview continues to provide a sense of community for those who live there and enjoy the lake.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Lakeview does not have its own school district, so children typically attend schools in the neighboring communities, such as Silverton ISD. The Lakeview area is often seen as a destination for tourists who are exploring the Lake Mackenzie Recreation Area, which is the primary landmark in the region. Lake Mackenzie is a popular site for outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and camping, drawing visitors from around the state. The surrounding landscape offers stunning views of the Texas plains and the rugged terrain of the Caprock Escarpment, making it a great location for hiking and photography. Lakeview Park, located near the lake, is a local spot for picnics, outdoor events, and family gatherings. Lakeview remains a quiet retreat with few commercial attractions, but its beautiful natural surroundings and access to outdoor recreation make it a peaceful and popular destination for those looking to enjoy the outdoors in a rural, scenic setting.