Cities and Towns in Coke County, Texas
Founded in 1889, Coke County is one of 254 counties in the state of Texas. Historically, Coke County was formed from Tom Green County. The city of Robert Lee is the county seat. With FIPS code of 81, Coke County has a population of 3,321 and area of 899 square miles (2,328 km²).
List of all cities in Coke County, TX alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Bronte, TX | 76933 | 325 |
| Robert Lee, TX | 76945 | 325 |
| Silver, TX | 76945 | 325 |
| 76949 | 325 | |
| Tennyson, TX | 76953 | 325 |
Major Cities and Towns in Coke County, Texas
Coke County is a rural county located in central-western Texas, known for its historical significance and agricultural heritage. Established in 1889, the county is named after Richard Coke, a former governor of Texas. The county has a rich history tied to the early development of the cattle industry and farming, and it became a center for cotton and wheat production in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Over time, the county’s economy diversified with the discovery of oil in the 1920s. Today, Coke County remains a quiet, agricultural community with a focus on ranching and oil production, with small towns offering a glimpse into rural Texas life. The county seat is Robert Lee, but towns like Brady and Silver also play key roles in local commerce and community life.
Robert Lee
General Information
- Area: 1.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,200 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 76945
- Latitude/Longitude: 31.8660° N / 100.5242° W
City Location and History
Robert Lee is the county seat of Coke County and is located in central-western Texas, roughly 25 miles north of San Angelo. The town was established in 1878 and was originally called Lee’s Settlement, named after a local landowner, Robert Lee. The settlement grew rapidly after the arrival of the railroad, which brought economic growth through cattle ranching and cotton farming. In 1889, the town was formally designated as the county seat when Coke County was created, and it was renamed Robert Lee in honor of Robert E. Lee, the famous Confederate general. During the early 20th century, Robert Lee grew due to oil discoveries in the region, which contributed to its economic development. Although Robert Lee remains small, its historical significance and role as a local hub for commerce, agriculture, and oil persist to this day. The town offers a unique combination of old-world charm and modern-day functionality, and it remains a beloved part of Coke County.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Robert Lee is served by the Robert Lee Independent School District, which includes Robert Lee High School, Robert Lee Junior High, and Robert Lee Elementary School. The school district offers a variety of educational programs and extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and academic clubs. In terms of landmarks, Robert Lee is home to the Robert Lee County Courthouse, a historic building that has been serving as the center of local government since the town’s early days. The Concho River Walk, near the center of town, provides a scenic spot for residents and visitors to enjoy nature. Robert Lee’s Veterans Memorial Park honors local military veterans, while the Old Jail Museum offers insight into the town’s law enforcement history. The Coke County Historical Museum provides additional context about the region’s history, featuring exhibits on the early cattle ranching, farming, and oil exploration that shaped the area. Outdoor enthusiasts often visit Lake Spence, a nearby reservoir popular for fishing, boating, and camping.
Silver
General Information
- Area: 0.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 300 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 76912
- Latitude/Longitude: 31.7046° N / 100.6586° W
City Location and History
Silver is a small, rural community located in the western part of Coke County, about 17 miles northeast of Robert Lee. Originally established as a mining town in the late 1800s, the town was named for the silver deposits that were discovered in the area, though no significant silver production ever materialized. Instead, the community relied heavily on cattle ranching and agriculture for its economic stability. The arrival of the railroad in the early 1900s helped bring further growth, and Silver served as a local service hub for surrounding ranches. As the demand for agricultural products grew, the town became an important location for ranching operations. However, as the economy shifted and larger towns like Robert Lee and San Angelo became more developed, Silver gradually became a quieter, smaller community. Today, it remains a close-knit town with a small population and is primarily residential, serving as a peaceful retreat for those seeking a rural lifestyle.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Silver is part of the Robert Lee Independent School District, with local students attending the same schools as those in Robert Lee. Although there are no schools directly within Silver, the Robert Lee High School and its associated grade schools offer education for the area’s children. In terms of landmarks, Silver is home to the Silver Cemetery, which marks the graves of many of the town’s early residents. The town has several historic ranch buildings that reflect its agricultural roots. Visitors to Silver can enjoy the quiet, peaceful surroundings, with the nearby Lake Spence providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking. The Silver Water Tower, a landmark in the area, serves as a symbol of the town’s past and its long-standing connection to local water infrastructure. Additionally, Silver celebrates its history through local festivals and community gatherings, including seasonal events that bring residents together. While Silver is small, its presence in the county offers a snapshot of rural Texas life that has remained relatively unchanged for generations.
Bronte
General Information
- Area: 2.0 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,200 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 76933
- Latitude/Longitude: 31.7500° N / 100.2769° W
City Location and History
Bronte is a small town located in the northeastern corner of Coke County, situated approximately 30 miles south of Abilene. The town was established in the 1880s, and its history is closely tied to the railroad and the development of the region’s agricultural economy. Originally a stop on the Texas & Pacific Railway, Bronte quickly grew as a shipping point for cattle, cotton, and other agricultural products. In its early years, the town was a bustling center for trade and commerce, and the arrival of settlers further contributed to its growth. However, as transportation methods evolved and larger markets became more accessible, Bronte’s role as a commercial hub diminished, though it remained a key center for ranching. Over the years, Bronte developed into a quiet, rural town with a strong community spirit, offering a slower pace of life while still preserving much of its historical heritage. Today, it continues to serve as a small, agricultural community with a close-knit population.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bronte is served by the Bronte Independent School District, which includes Bronte High School, Bronte Junior High, and Bronte Elementary School. The district offers various extracurricular programs, including athletics, music, and academic clubs. Bronte is home to several notable landmarks, including the Bronte County Courthouse, a historic building that remains a central part of local governance. The Bronte City Park provides recreational opportunities for families, including a swimming pool, playground, and picnic areas. Nearby, Lake Bronte offers fishing and boating activities. The town also celebrates its heritage through events like the Bronte Rodeo, which brings the community together for competitions, live music, and food. Bronte’s location in the scenic countryside provides residents with stunning views and access to the Concho River, which adds to the town’s peaceful charm. While small, Bronte continues to celebrate its ranching history, offering a welcoming environment for families, retirees, and visitors.
