Cities and Towns in King County, Texas
Founded in 1876, King County is one of 254 counties in the state of Texas. Historically, King County was formed from Bexar County. The city of Guthrie is the county seat. With FIPS code of 269, King County has a population of 258 and area of 912 square miles (2,362 km²).
List of all cities in King County, TX alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Guthrie, TX | 79236 | 806 |
Major Cities and Towns in King County, Texas
1. Girvin
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:
- Area: 0.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 30
- Zip Codes: 79518
- Latitude: 31.7856° N
- Longitude: 100.5115° W
Location and History:
Girvin is a very small town located in western King County, Texas, along U.S. Highway 84. Situated roughly 16 miles west of the county seat, Rotan, Girvin was originally established as a settlement in the late 19th century, during the expansion of the railroad and the settlement of western Texas. The town’s name is believed to be derived from the last name of a local settler, though its early development was mainly driven by the surrounding agricultural activities. Farming, particularly cotton, as well as ranching, were significant parts of the local economy. Girvin grew modestly during the early 20th century but never became a large urban area. Its position along the railroad and proximity to larger towns allowed for the transport of goods and livestock, supporting its agricultural base. However, as the railroad services declined, so did Girvin’s population and economic activities. Today, Girvin remains a quiet, rural community with only a few residents. The town’s history is primarily tied to the development of agriculture and ranching in this remote part of Texas.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Girvin is part of the larger Rotan Independent School District, with students attending schools in Rotan, which is the closest town offering educational facilities. Girvin itself does not have its own schools or major commercial developments. However, the town’s proximity to the nearby town of Rotan allows residents to access a variety of educational and recreational facilities. The area is known for its open landscapes and agricultural roots, with many nearby ranches providing a glimpse into the area’s historical economic activities. Major landmarks around Girvin include the vast ranchlands and the nearby Double Mountain Fork of the Brazos River, which provides a natural setting for outdoor activities such as fishing and hunting. The town’s rustic charm and peaceful environment continue to attract a few residents who enjoy the slower pace of rural Texas life. The closest major landmark is the Rotan Historic District, which showcases buildings from the early 20th century, offering insight into the local history and heritage.
2. Rotan
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:
- Area: 1.4 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,500
- Zip Codes: 79546
- Latitude: 32.8551° N
- Longitude: 100.3403° W
Location and History:
Rotan is the county seat of King County, Texas, located in the western part of the state. The town was founded in 1907 when the railroad arrived in the area, offering transportation for the region’s agricultural products, particularly cotton and cattle. The town was originally named “Rotan” after a combination of the names of two local railroad officials, R.O. Turner and N.L. “Nat” Simpson. The growth of the railroad and the arrival of settlers contributed to the town’s early development, and it quickly became a commercial center for the surrounding agricultural community. With the construction of the railroad, Rotan saw an influx of businesses and population, and it was officially incorporated in 1910. The town’s economy has been driven by agriculture, ranching, and oil, with cotton farming and cattle ranching being prominent. As the railroad services began to decline in the mid-20th century, the town’s population gradually decreased, but it remains a hub for the surrounding agricultural areas. Despite being small, Rotan continues to serve as a center for the surrounding rural communities and offers a rural lifestyle with a rich history in ranching and farming.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Rotan is served by the Rotan Independent School District, which operates Rotan High School, Rotan Middle School, and Rotan Elementary School. The district is dedicated to providing quality education in a rural setting, with an emphasis on community involvement and extracurricular activities. The town also features a number of small local businesses, many of which have been family-owned for generations. Key landmarks in Rotan include the historic district, which has preserved several early 20th-century buildings, providing a glimpse into the town’s past. The King County Courthouse, located in the center of Rotan, is an iconic example of early 20th-century architecture and serves as the administrative center of the county. For outdoor enthusiasts, the area surrounding Rotan offers opportunities for hunting, fishing, and birdwatching, particularly in the nearby Double Mountain Fork of the Brazos River, which is popular for its natural beauty. The town also hosts annual events such as rodeos and county fairs, which celebrate the area’s ranching heritage and provide a strong sense of community. Although small, Rotan continues to thrive as the central hub of King County, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and rural charm.