Cities and Towns in Erath County, Texas
Founded in 1856, Erath County is one of 254 counties in the state of Texas. Historically, Erath County was formed from Bosque County and Coryell County. The city of Stephenville is the county seat. With FIPS code of 143, Erath County has a population of 43,378 and area of 1,086 square miles (2,813 km²).
List of all cities in Erath County, TX alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Bluff Dale, TX | 76433 | 254 |
| Dublin, TX | 76446 | 254 |
| Lingleville, TX | 76401 | 254 |
| 76446 | 254 | |
| 76461 | 254 | |
| Morgan Mill, TX | 76465 | 254 |
| Stephenville, TX | 76401 | 254 |
| 76402 | 254 | |
| Tarleton State University, TX | 76402 | 254 |
Major Cities and Towns in Erath County, Texas
Erath County, located in Central Texas, is home to a variety of small towns and cities that reflect the region’s agricultural roots and rich history. Established in 1856, Erath County is named after George Bernard Erath, a prominent Texas settler and surveyor. The county features a mixture of rural charm, historical significance, and natural beauty, with many towns founded during the late 19th century. Below are the major cities and towns in Erath County, Texas.
Stephenville
General Information
- Area: 22.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 25,000 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 76401
- Latitude/Longitude: 32.2226° N / 98.2134° W
City Location and History
Stephenville is the county seat of Erath County and is located about 90 miles southwest of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. The city was founded in the 1850s and named after John M. Stephenville, an early settler and Texas Ranger. As the town grew, it became a key trading post for the surrounding agricultural communities, particularly for cattle and cotton. Stephenville’s proximity to the Palo Pinto Mountains and its location along the Texas and Pacific Railway helped the city grow quickly in the late 19th century. In the 20th century, the establishment of Tarleton State University in 1917 significantly contributed to the city’s development, creating a vibrant college town atmosphere. The presence of the university has influenced the city’s economy and culture, with education, agriculture, and ranching remaining key elements of Stephenville’s character. Today, Stephenville is known as the “Cowboy Capital of the World” due to its long-standing association with rodeo and western culture.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Stephenville is home to Tarleton State University, a major public university that offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in various fields. The university is a central part of the city, providing educational opportunities and cultural events. In addition, the Stephenville Independent School District serves the local K-12 population, including Stephenville High School, Stephenville Middle School, and Chamberlin Elementary School. Major landmarks in Stephenville include the Erath County Courthouse, a historic building in the city’s downtown area. The Stephenville City Park offers residents and visitors outdoor activities, including sports fields, walking trails, and a pond for fishing. Tarleton State University’s Dick Smith Library and the Tarleton Rodeo Arena are also popular sites. Rodeo fans can visit the Stephenville Rodeo Arena, where the city hosts the ProRodeo Cowboys Association events, further solidifying its status as a hub for rodeo culture. The city also features the Stephenville Historical Museum, which showcases exhibits related to the city’s early settlers, cattle industry, and the development of the university.
Dublin
General Information
- Area: 2.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 3,500 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 76446
- Latitude/Longitude: 32.0842° N / 98.3537° W
City Location and History
Dublin is located in the western part of Erath County and was founded in the 1850s. The town was named after Dublin, Ireland, by early settlers who were of Irish descent. Dublin became an important center for agriculture, particularly for the cotton and cattle industries, due to its proximity to the Brazos River and its location along a key transportation route. The city is perhaps most famous for being the original home of the Dr Pepper brand, where the soft drink was first bottled in the early 20th century. The town thrived during the 1900s, with a number of businesses and industries developing, including a substantial agricultural sector. However, as larger towns and cities nearby grew, Dublin’s population stabilized and the town maintained a more rural, small-town atmosphere. Today, Dublin is a quiet community that celebrates its historical ties to Dr Pepper and its Irish roots, with annual festivals and local events that draw visitors to the area.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Dublin is served by the Dublin Independent School District, which includes Dublin High School, Dublin Middle School, and Dublin Elementary School. The district offers a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities, with a strong focus on sports and community involvement. Major landmarks in Dublin include the Dublin Dr Pepper Museum, where visitors can learn about the town’s unique connection to the soft drink’s origins and its historical significance. The Old Post Office Museum in downtown Dublin offers an insight into the history of the town and its early settlers. The Erath County Historical Museum, located nearby, features exhibits on the county’s agricultural past, as well as the history of Dublin and its Irish settlers. Dublin City Park provides a place for outdoor recreation, with picnic areas, sports fields, and a walking trail. The Old Dublin Bottling Works, which once produced Dr Pepper, is another key site for visitors interested in the town’s history and role in the soft drink industry.
Bluff Dale
General Information
- Area: 3.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 400 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 76433
- Latitude/Longitude: 32.4219° N / 98.1851° W
City Location and History
Bluff Dale is located in the southern part of Erath County, nestled in the scenic Palo Pinto Mountains. The town was founded in the late 1800s and was initially known as Pecan Creek before being renamed Bluff Dale. The town’s early economy was based on agriculture, particularly cattle ranching and farming, which remains a significant part of its identity today. Bluff Dale has always been a small, rural community, and despite being relatively quiet, it boasts a rich cultural heritage, particularly in terms of its connection to early Texas settlers. While it never grew to be a large commercial center, Bluff Dale has maintained its rural charm and is now a peaceful retreat for people who appreciate a slower pace of life. The town offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and has become an attractive location for those seeking a more tranquil setting within Erath County.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bluff Dale is part of the Bluff Dale Independent School District, which serves the surrounding rural areas. The district includes Bluff Dale High School and Bluff Dale Elementary School, both of which offer personalized education and strong community involvement. Major landmarks in Bluff Dale include Bluff Dale Community Park, which offers picnic areas, a pavilion, and a peaceful setting for outdoor activities. The town also features the Bluff Dale Cemetery, where early settlers are buried. The nearby Lake Granbury, just a short drive away, offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and outdoor recreation. The surrounding countryside, with its scenic hills and wildlife, makes Bluff Dale a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and those who enjoy hiking and exploring rural landscapes.
Alexander
General Information
- Area: 0.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 150 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 76450
- Latitude/Longitude: 32.3990° N / 98.2045° W
City Location and History
Alexander is a small community located in the northeastern part of Erath County. The town was founded in the early 1900s as a small farming and ranching settlement. The town was named after John Alexander, an early settler and prominent landowner. As with many small Texas towns, Alexander grew as an agricultural center, with cotton and cattle being key to the local economy. Over the years, however, Alexander has remained a small, unincorporated community with a close-knit population. While it may not have the same level of commercial activity as larger towns, Alexander is an integral part of the rural fabric of Erath County. The town’s peaceful atmosphere and beautiful landscapes make it a perfect location for those who enjoy country living.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Because of its small size, Alexander does not have its own independent school district. Students attend schools in Stephenville or other nearby communities. Major landmarks in Alexander include the Alexander Cemetery, where many of the town’s early settlers are buried. The surrounding landscape, characterized by farmland and ranches, is a significant part of the town’s identity. Alexander also benefits from the proximity to Lake Proctor, which offers recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and camping. The natural beauty of the area, along with the quiet rural setting, provides a unique charm that attracts those who appreciate a slower pace of life and outdoor activities.
