Cities and Towns in Donley County, Texas
Founded in 1876, Donley County is one of 254 counties in the state of Texas. Historically, Donley County was formed from Bexar County. The city of Clarendon is the county seat. With FIPS code of 129, Donley County has a population of 3,268 and area of 930 square miles (2,409 km²).
List of all cities in Donley County, TX alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Clarendon, TX | 79226 | 806 |
| Hedley, TX | 79237 | 806 |
| Howardwick, TX | 79226 | 806 |
| Lelia Lake, TX | 79240 | 806 |
Major Cities and Towns in Donley County, Texas
Donley County is located in the central part of the Texas Panhandle, known for its rich history, agricultural roots, and small-town charm. The county was established in 1876 and named after A.D. Donley, an early Texas settler and politician. Donley County is home to several towns, each with unique historical and cultural significance. The towns in Donley County have traditionally relied on ranching, farming, and oil production as their primary economic activities.
Clarendon
General Information
- Area: 1.9 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,000 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 79226
- Latitude/Longitude: 34.9183° N / 100.8910° W
City Location and History
Clarendon, the county seat of Donley County, is located in the northern part of the county, near the Salt Fork of the Red River. The city was founded in 1878 and quickly became a vital stop along the Fort Worth and Denver City Railway, which helped the area grow into a trading hub. Clarendon served as an agricultural center, with ranching, farming, and later, oil production playing significant roles in its development. The town was named after Clarendon, New York, reflecting the origins of some of its early settlers. During the early 20th century, Clarendon was known for its vibrant community and a strong economic presence in the Panhandle region. Though it has remained a small town, it has maintained its status as the county seat and remains a center for government, commerce, and cultural activities in Donley County.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Clarendon is served by the Clarendon Independent School District, which includes Clarendon High School, Clarendon Junior High School, and Clarendon Elementary School. The school district is known for its community engagement and its strong academic and extracurricular programs. One of the major landmarks in Clarendon is the Donley County Courthouse, a historic building that stands as a testament to the town’s role as the county seat. The Clarendon Depot, once a bustling railroad station, is now a historical museum that showcases the town’s history and its role in the development of the railroad. The Saints’ Roost Museum offers additional insight into the history of the area, focusing on ranching, agriculture, and local culture. Lake Clarendon provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation, while Clarendon Park offers a space for community events and picnics. The town also celebrates local traditions with events such as the Clarendon Cowboy Gathering, which honors the region’s Western heritage.
Howardwick
General Information
- Area: 2.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 500 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 79226
- Latitude/Longitude: 34.9230° N / 100.9044° W
City Location and History
Howardwick is located just to the south of Clarendon and serves as a small, rural community in Donley County. The town was originally established in the early 1900s as a station for ranching and farming in the area. Howardwick was named after Howard Wick, one of the area’s early settlers, and the town grew steadily throughout the 20th century. It was officially incorporated in 1947. Howardwick remained a quiet town, primarily dependent on agriculture, including cattle ranching and wheat farming. While it has never grown significantly in size, Howardwick is an important part of the local agricultural economy and is known for its close-knit community. The town also has a reputation for friendly residents and a peaceful, rural lifestyle.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Howardwick is served by the Clarendon Independent School District, as it does not have its own school system. Local students typically attend schools in Clarendon. Key landmarks in Howardwick include the Howardwick City Park, a local recreational area that offers picnic facilities, playgrounds, and a space for outdoor events. Lake Greenbelt, located a short drive from the town, provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and camping. The town is also known for its proximity to the Greenbelt Reservoir, an important resource for irrigation and recreational activities. Despite its small size, Howardwick’s proximity to larger towns and outdoor recreational spaces makes it an attractive location for those seeking a rural lifestyle with easy access to urban amenities.
Lelia Lake
General Information
- Area: 0.8 square miles
- Population: Approximately 150 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 79240
- Latitude/Longitude: 34.9943° N / 100.7636° W
City Location and History
Lelia Lake is a small, rural community located in the southern part of Donley County, Texas. The town was established in the early 1900s and named after Lelia Lake, a local woman who was a prominent figure in the area’s early development. The town’s growth was closely tied to the expansion of the railroads and the local cattle ranching industry. Although the town’s population has never been large, Lelia Lake became known as a quiet, self-sufficient community with deep agricultural roots. The town’s economic base has historically relied on farming, livestock, and the surrounding oil industry. Lelia Lake’s role as a rural community in Donley County is significant, as it represents the small-town lifestyle that characterizes much of the region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Lelia Lake does not have its own school system, and students generally attend Clarendon Independent School District schools. The town’s main landmarks include the Lelia Lake Community Center, a gathering space for local events, and Lelia Lake Park, which offers a small area for picnics and outdoor activities. The town is also home to a few historic buildings and local ranching structures that give visitors a glimpse into the past. While Lelia Lake does not have a large number of major attractions, it offers a peaceful, rural setting with easy access to the natural beauty of Donley County. The surrounding landscape is ideal for hunting, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities.
