Cities and Towns in Gillespie County, Texas
Founded in 1848, Gillespie County is one of 254 counties in the state of Texas. Historically, Gillespie County was formed from Bexar County and Travis County. The city of Fredericksburg is the county seat. With FIPS code of 171, Gillespie County has a population of 27,297 and area of 1,061 square miles (2,748 km²).
List of all cities in Gillespie County, TX alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Albert, TX | 78671 | 830 |
| Bankersmith, TX | 78624 | 830 |
| Blumenthal, TX | 78624 | 830 |
| Cherry Spring, TX | 78624 | 830 |
| Doss, TX | 78618 | 830 |
| Fredericksburg, TX | 78624 | 830 |
| Gold, TX | 78624 | 830 |
| Harper, TX | 78631 | 830 |
| Knoxville, TX | 78631 | 830 |
| Luckenback, TX | 78624 | 830 |
| Morris Ranch, TX | 78624 | 830 |
| Noxville, TX | 78631 | 830 |
| Spring Creek, TX | 78624 | 830 |
| Stonewall, TX | 78671 | 830 |
| Tivydale, TX | 78624 | 830 |
| Willow City, TX | 78675 | 830 |
Major Cities and Towns in Gillespie County, Texas
1. Fredericksburg, Texas
Location and History
Fredericksburg, located in the central part of Gillespie County, is the county seat and one of the most well-known cities in the Hill Country of Texas. The city was founded in 1846 by German immigrants, and its German heritage is still very much alive today in the local culture, architecture, and cuisine. Named after Prince Frederick of Prussia, Fredericksburg quickly became a thriving center for agriculture, particularly with the cultivation of crops like wheat, peaches, and grapes. The town’s economy was further boosted in the late 1800s by the arrival of the railroad. During the 20th century, Fredericksburg developed a vibrant tourism industry, capitalizing on its historic district, wineries, and the beauty of the surrounding Texas Hill Country. Today, Fredericksburg is a popular destination for visitors seeking a blend of history, culture, and outdoor recreation.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Fredericksburg is served by the Fredericksburg Independent School District (FISD), which includes several elementary, middle, and high schools. The city is also home to Hill Country University Center, a branch of Texas State University. Major landmarks include the National Museum of the Pacific War, a world-class museum that honors those who served in the Pacific during World War II, and the Fredericksburg Historic District, which features beautiful Victorian homes, unique shops, and historic buildings. Other key landmarks are the Vereins Kirche, a German-style church that serves as a symbol of the town’s early settlers, and Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, a massive granite dome offering hiking, rock climbing, and spectacular views of the Hill Country.
City Details:
- Area: 8.5 square miles
- Population: 11,000+ (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 78624
- Latitude and Longitude: 30.2752° N, 98.8718° W
2. Harper, Texas
Location and History
Harper is a small town located in the northern part of Gillespie County, along U.S. Route 290. The area was first settled by German immigrants in the mid-1800s, who brought with them a strong agricultural tradition. The town was officially established in the late 1800s, named after the Harper family, who were among the area’s early settlers. Like much of the surrounding Hill Country, Harper grew as an agricultural community, with ranching and farming being the primary industries. In the 20th century, the town remained relatively small, and its growth was limited by its rural setting. Today, Harper retains its small-town charm and is primarily a quiet residential community for those who prefer living outside larger urban centers.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Harper is served by the Harper Independent School District, which includes Harper High School, a small school that serves the community’s educational needs. The town has limited commercial development, but residents enjoy the peaceful rural environment. A notable landmark in the area is the Harper Cemetery, which is one of the oldest burial sites in the region and reflects the town’s early history. Another important site is the Harper Volunteer Fire Department, which serves as a gathering point for community events. The surrounding area is known for its scenic landscapes and open spaces, making it a quiet retreat for nature lovers and those seeking a slower pace of life.
City Details:
- Area: 1.4 square miles
- Population: 1,000+ (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 78631
- Latitude and Longitude: 30.2917° N, 99.2825° W
3. Stonewall, Texas
Location and History
Stonewall is a small unincorporated community located in the southwestern part of Gillespie County. The town is famous for being the birthplace of President Lyndon B. Johnson, and it holds a special place in American history as the center of his family’s ranching operations. Originally settled by German immigrants in the 1800s, Stonewall became more widely known in the mid-20th century when LBJ rose to political prominence. The town’s economy has long been tied to agriculture, particularly cattle ranching, though it has also benefitted from tourism, particularly visitors interested in the life and legacy of President Johnson. The National Park Service now manages the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park, which includes the LBJ Ranch and the Johnson family’s home.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Stonewall is part of the Fredericksburg Independent School District (FISD), so local children attend schools in Fredericksburg. Stonewall itself does not have many major schools or institutions, but it is known for its connection to the Johnson family. The Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park is the primary landmark, offering visitors a chance to tour the LBJ Ranch, his childhood home, and the Johnson Family Cemetery. The area around Stonewall is known for its picturesque Hill Country views, vineyards, and the Pedernales River, which provides opportunities for fishing and outdoor recreation. Visitors to Stonewall also enjoy stops at local wineries, which are a significant part of the region’s growing wine tourism industry.
City Details:
- Area: 1.1 square miles
- Population: 500+ (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 78671
- Latitude and Longitude: 30.1851° N, 98.5143° W
4. Doss, Texas
Location and History
Doss is a small rural community located in the northern part of Gillespie County, around 20 miles northwest of Fredericksburg. The area was originally settled by German immigrants in the mid-1800s, with the first families arriving in the region to establish farms and ranches. Doss was named after the Doss family, early settlers who played a major role in the town’s development. While Doss was initially a farming community, it has remained small over the years, and its growth has been limited by its rural setting. The town is known for its natural beauty and proximity to the Hill Country’s sweeping vistas and open land. Today, Doss remains a quiet place, with a small population and few commercial enterprises, making it a peaceful retreat for those who appreciate rural life.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Doss is part of the Fredericksburg Independent School District (FISD), though most students travel to Fredericksburg for schooling. The area lacks significant landmarks, though its natural beauty is a major draw for residents and visitors. The Doss Volunteer Fire Department serves the community and hosts various local events and gatherings. The surrounding landscape is characterized by rolling hills, live oak trees, and expansive ranchlands, making it an ideal location for outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and hunting. Doss is also located near the Llano River, which offers opportunities for fishing and canoeing.
City Details:
- Area: 1.0 square mile
- Population: Fewer than 200
- Zip Codes: 78618
- Latitude and Longitude: 30.2978° N, 98.6697° W
5. Willow City, Texas
Location and History
Willow City is a small unincorporated community located in the northeastern part of Gillespie County, nestled within the Texas Hill Country. Like many small towns in the region, Willow City was established in the 1800s, and its economy has historically been based on agriculture, particularly ranching. The town’s name likely comes from the abundance of willow trees along the nearby streams and rivers. While Willow City has never been a large settlement, it remains an important rural community within the county. The area is known for its scenic beauty, with picturesque hilltops, winding roads, and abundant wildlife, making it a popular spot for visitors seeking a quiet, rural getaway.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Willow City is part of the Fredericksburg Independent School District, so students typically attend schools in Fredericksburg. The town itself is quite small and does not have major landmarks, but it is well known for its natural surroundings. One of the most famous nearby landmarks is the Willow City Loop, a scenic drive that showcases the beauty of the Texas Hill Country, especially in the spring when wildflowers blanket the landscape. The loop is particularly popular for photographers and nature enthusiasts. Willow City’s proximity to Fredericksburg makes it an ideal place for those seeking a rural lifestyle without being far from city amenities.
City Details:
- Area: Less than 1 square mile
- Population: Fewer than 100
- Zip Codes: 78675
- Latitude and Longitude: 30.3762° N, 98.6584° W
