Cities and Towns in Eastland County, Texas
Founded in 1858, Eastland County is one of 254 counties in the state of Texas. Historically, Eastland County was formed from Bosque County, Coryell County and Travis County. The city of Eastland is the county seat. With FIPS code of 133, Eastland County has a population of 17,864 and area of 926 square miles (2,398 km²).
List of all cities in Eastland County, TX alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Carbon, TX | 76435 | 254 |
Cisco, TX | 76437 | 254 |
Desdemona, TX | 76445 | 254 |
Eastland, TX | 76448 | 254 |
Gorman, TX | 76454 | 254 |
Olden, TX | 76466 | 254 |
Ranger, TX | 76470 | 254 |
Rising Star, TX | 76471 | 254 |
Major Cities and Towns in Eastland County, Texas
Eastland County, located in central Texas, is known for its rich history, diverse landscapes, and small-town charm. The county is part of the Cross Timbers region and has a mix of agricultural, historical, and recreational significance. Eastland County was established in 1858 and is named after the Eastland family, who were among the area’s early settlers. The county seat is Eastland, but it includes several smaller towns with rich histories tied to the cattle industry and early railroad development. Below are the key cities and towns within Eastland County.
Eastland
General Information
- Area: 6.4 square miles
- Population: Approximately 3,900 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 76448
- Latitude/Longitude: 32.4116° N / 98.8257° W
City Location and History
Eastland is located in central Texas, approximately 120 miles west of Fort Worth. It was founded in 1858 and became the county seat of Eastland County, shortly after the county’s creation. The town’s growth was closely linked to the arrival of the Texas and Pacific Railway in the 1880s, which made Eastland an important transportation hub for cattle, crops, and goods. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Eastland developed a strong economy based on agriculture, particularly cattle ranching. The town also saw growth in the oil industry during the early 20th century, which further fueled its expansion. Today, Eastland is a small, vibrant community that retains much of its historic character, with many buildings in the downtown district reflecting its early 20th-century architectural style. Eastland’s economy continues to be centered around agriculture, ranching, and local businesses, with an increasing interest in tourism due to its historical sites and natural beauty.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Eastland is served by the Eastland Independent School District, which includes schools such as Eastland High School and Eastland Middle School. The district offers a well-rounded education with a focus on extracurricular activities, including sports programs and academic clubs. One of the town’s main attractions is The Eastland County Courthouse, a stunning example of early 20th-century architecture and a central landmark in the city. The Old Jail Museum is a popular spot for visitors, offering exhibits on the history of Eastland County and its role in the cattle and oil industries. Lake Leon, located just outside of Eastland, offers boating, fishing, and camping opportunities, attracting outdoor enthusiasts to the area. Additionally, the Eastland Depot is an important historical site, representing the town’s early connection to the railroad. The town’s small-town charm is also showcased through local businesses, parks, and community events, such as the annual Eastland County Fair.
Cisco
General Information
- Area: 3.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 3,800 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 76437
- Latitude/Longitude: 32.0807° N / 98.9144° W
City Location and History
Cisco is located about 10 miles east of Eastland, in the western part of Eastland County, Texas. The town was established in the 1880s, shortly after the arrival of the Texas and Pacific Railway, which led to the development of Cisco as a major stop on the railroad. Cisco grew rapidly during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, becoming a prosperous town known for its agricultural production, particularly cotton, and its role as a shipping point for cattle and livestock. In the early 20th century, Cisco also experienced a boom in the oil industry, and its economy became increasingly tied to both agriculture and energy production. Today, Cisco remains a small, thriving town with a focus on its historical roots, offering a quiet and rural lifestyle while being within reach of larger cities like Abilene and Fort Worth.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Cisco is served by the Cisco Independent School District, which includes Cisco High School and Cisco Middle School. The schools are well-known for their academic achievements, as well as their strong athletic programs. One of Cisco’s key landmarks is the Cisco Heritage Museum, which features exhibits on the town’s history, from its early settlement to its growth during the railroad and oil booms. The Cisco City Park is a popular gathering spot for locals, offering picnic areas, sports fields, and playgrounds. Cisco is also home to The Cisco College, a community college offering both two-year degrees and vocational programs. Lake Cisco provides recreational opportunities such as boating, fishing, and camping, making it a popular destination for both residents and visitors. The Cisco Depot, an historic railroad station, stands as a reminder of the town’s early importance as a railroad hub. Cisco’s quiet charm and historical significance make it a unique place to visit or call home.
Ranger
General Information
- Area: 3.7 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,500 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 76470
- Latitude/Longitude: 32.4671° N / 98.6682° W
City Location and History
Ranger is located in the eastern part of Eastland County, about 15 miles north of Eastland. The town was founded in the late 19th century and quickly became an important center for the ranching and oil industries. It was originally established as a stop along the Texas and Pacific Railway, and its location made it an ideal site for trade and commerce. The town’s economy was further bolstered by the discovery of oil in the region in the 1920s. The Ranger Oil Field was one of the largest in Texas at the time, and it brought a period of prosperity to the town. Though the oil industry has since declined, Ranger retains its historical significance and small-town atmosphere, with many buildings from its early 20th-century heyday still standing.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ranger is served by the Ranger Independent School District, which includes Ranger High School and Ranger Middle School. The district is well-regarded for its academic programs and strong sports teams. One of Ranger’s notable landmarks is the Ranger Hill, a large hill located in the center of town. The hill offers stunning views of the surrounding area and is a popular site for local events, including Ranger’s annual rodeo and parade. The Ranger Museum provides insight into the town’s history, including exhibits on the oil boom, ranching, and the early years of the railroad. Lake Ranger, a man-made reservoir, offers recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and picnicking. The town’s historic Ranger Depot also serves as a reminder of the town’s early importance as a railroad hub and is often visited by history enthusiasts. Ranger’s combination of natural beauty and historical landmarks make it an appealing destination for both residents and tourists.
Gorman
General Information
- Area: 2.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,000 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 76454
- Latitude/Longitude: 32.2897° N / 98.4665° W
City Location and History
Gorman is a small town located in the southeastern part of Eastland County, Texas, approximately 20 miles from Eastland. It was founded in the late 19th century and grew rapidly with the development of the Texas and Pacific Railway. Gorman quickly became an important farming and ranching community, and its economy remained largely agricultural throughout much of the 20th century. The town’s location near fertile soil and abundant water sources made it ideal for farming crops such as cotton, wheat, and corn. Today, Gorman is a quiet town with a population that remains largely centered around agriculture and local industries, with a focus on maintaining a close-knit community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Gorman is served by the Gorman Independent School District, which includes Gorman High School and Gorman Elementary School. The district is known for its strong academic focus and involvement in community events. Gorman City Park offers recreational facilities, including a baseball diamond, picnic areas, and a playground, providing a space for family gatherings and local events. Lake Gorman, located just outside of town, offers outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and hiking. The town’s historic downtown area features several early 20th-century buildings, which reflect its agricultural and railroad heritage. Visitors to Gorman can also explore the Gorman Historical Society, which preserves artifacts and documents related to the town’s history. Gorman’s small-town atmosphere and rich agricultural heritage make it a unique and peaceful place to visit or live.