Cities and Towns in Callahan County, Texas

Founded in 1858, Callahan County is one of 254 counties in the state of Texas. Historically, Callahan County was formed from Bexar County, Bosque County, and Travis County. The city of Baird is the county seat. With FIPS code of 59, Callahan County has a population of 14,115 and area of 899 square miles (2,328 km²).

List of all cities in Callahan County, TX alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Baird, TX	79504	325
Clyde, TX	79510	325
Cross Plns, TX	76443	254
Eula, TX	79510	325
Putnam, TX	76469	325

Major Cities and Towns in Callahan County, Texas

Baird

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:

• Area: 1.5 square miles
• Population: 1,500+
• Zip Codes: 79504
• Latitude: 32.4605° N
• Longitude: 99.2864° W

Location and History:

Baird is the county seat of Callahan County, located in central West Texas. The town is situated along U.S. Route 283, approximately 20 miles east of Abilene and about 160 miles west of Fort Worth. Baird’s history dates back to 1880 when it was founded by John Baird, a local landowner, and it was initially named Baird City after its founder. The arrival of the Texas and Pacific Railway in 1881 facilitated the town’s growth and development, making it an important stop along the railroad. Baird was officially incorporated in 1883 and became the county seat of Callahan County, which was established in 1858. The town’s economy historically relied on agriculture, particularly cotton and livestock, as well as the railroad. Today, Baird has a population of around 1,500 residents and serves as a small, rural community with a rich history tied to the development of West Texas. The town is known for its friendly atmosphere, picturesque landscapes, and quiet, small-town living, with many residents commuting to Abilene for work while still enjoying the benefits of a rural lifestyle.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Baird is served by the Baird Independent School District (ISD), which includes Baird High School, Baird Middle School, and Baird Elementary School. The district emphasizes academic achievement and extracurricular activities, with students participating in a variety of sports and arts programs. Major landmarks in Baird include the Callahan County Courthouse, a historic building that serves as a central part of the town’s identity. The Baird City Park offers local residents a place to relax and enjoy outdoor activities, with picnic areas, playgrounds, and a walking track. One of the town’s most notable events is the Baird Fourth of July Celebration, which brings together the community for fireworks, food, and fun. The nearby Baird Hotel is a historical landmark that stands as a reminder of the town’s early days as a thriving railroad stop. Although Baird is a small town, it retains its charm and significance as the cultural and governmental center of Callahan County.

Clyde

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:

• Area: 2.4 square miles
• Population: 3,500+
• Zip Codes: 79510
• Latitude: 32.4870° N
• Longitude: 99.5899° W

Location and History:

Clyde is a small town located in the southeastern corner of Callahan County, approximately 20 miles west of Abilene. Founded in the late 19th century, Clyde was originally a stop on the Texas and Pacific Railroad, which spurred its development and growth. The town was officially incorporated in 1901, and its early economy was centered around agriculture, particularly cotton, which was a major crop in the region at the time. In the early 20th century, Clyde became known for its significant cattle ranching operations and was recognized as a key hub for livestock auctions and trade. Throughout the years, the town has remained a small, rural community but has experienced periodic growth, particularly in the latter half of the 20th century, as it became a residential area for those working in Abilene or nearby towns. Today, Clyde has a population of just over 3,500 people, many of whom are involved in agriculture, local businesses, and industries that support the region’s rural economy. Despite its small size, Clyde retains its historical charm and has strong community ties, with local events and activities bringing residents together throughout the year.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Clyde is served by the Clyde Consolidated Independent School District (ISD), which includes Clyde High School, Clyde Junior High School, and Clyde Elementary School. The district is well-regarded for its academic standards, athletic programs, and involvement in the local community. Major landmarks in Clyde include the Clyde Community Park, a large outdoor space that features sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas for residents and visitors to enjoy. The Clyde Historical Museum offers insights into the town’s past, showcasing exhibits related to the railroad, the agricultural history of the area, and the role of Clyde in regional cattle ranching. Another key feature of the town is the Clyde Water Tower, which has become an iconic symbol of the community. The town is also known for its annual Clyde Rodeo, a significant event that attracts visitors from across the region and celebrates the town’s western heritage with events like bull riding, calf roping, and other rodeo competitions. Despite its small size, Clyde’s sense of community and rich history make it an integral part of Callahan County.

Cross Plains

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:

• Area: 1.1 square miles
• Population: 1,000+
• Zip Codes: 76443
• Latitude: 32.3949° N
• Longitude: 99.2810° W

Location and History:

Cross Plains is a small, rural town located about 40 miles southwest of Abilene in the western part of Callahan County. The town was founded in 1873 and was named for its location at the crossroads of two important early trails, the Shackelford Trail and the Texas Trail, which led settlers through the area. The town’s early history is tied to the cattle drives of the late 19th century, as well as the farming and ranching operations that sprang up as the area developed. Cross Plains was officially incorporated in 1891, and its early economy was heavily influenced by both agriculture and the railroad, which made it an important trade and shipping center for the region. Over the years, Cross Plains has remained a quiet, small community with strong agricultural roots, particularly in livestock and cotton production. The town has experienced periods of economic challenge but remains a vital part of Callahan County, serving as a hub for local trade and services, while offering a rural, close-knit community for its residents.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Cross Plains is served by the Cross Plains Independent School District (ISD), which includes Cross Plains High School, Cross Plains Junior High School, and Cross Plains Elementary School. The district is known for its strong academic programs, small class sizes, and community involvement. The town’s major landmarks include the Cross Plains Cemetery, which contains the graves of many of the town’s early settlers, and the Cross Plains Historical Museum, which showcases artifacts from the town’s cattle ranching and agricultural history. The Mills Creek Reservoir near Cross Plains is a popular recreational spot for fishing and boating, attracting locals and visitors alike. Cross Plains is also home to the annual Cross Plains Rodeo, which celebrates the town’s western heritage and brings together the community for rodeo competitions, a carnival, and more. With its historical sites, small-town charm, and focus on agricultural traditions, Cross Plains remains a vital part of Callahan County’s identity.