Cities and Towns in Menard County, Texas
Founded in 1858, Menard County is one of 254 counties in the state of Texas. Historically, Menard County was formed from Bexar County. The city of Menard is the county seat. With FIPS code of 327, Menard County has a population of 1,982 and area of 902 square miles (2,336 km²).
List of all cities in Menard County, TX alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Fort McKavett, TX | 76841 | 325 |
| Hext, TX | 76848 | 325 |
| Menard, TX | 76859 | 325 |
Major Cities and Towns in Menard County, Texas
Menard County, located in Central Texas, is known for its rich history, scenic beauty, and strong ties to the early days of Texas settlement. The county is home to a few small towns that maintain their historical roots while contributing to the agricultural economy of the region. Below are the details of the major cities and towns in Menard County.
Menard
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.4 square miles
- Population: 1,500 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 76859
- Latitude: 30.9153° N
- Longitude: 99.7845° W
City Location and History
Menard, the county seat of Menard County, is situated along the banks of the San Saba River in the heart of Central Texas. Founded in 1858, Menard was originally known as “Menardville” and was named after Michel Menard, a French-Canadian empresario who helped settle the region. The town was established during the early days of Texas statehood and became an important trading post for settlers heading west. During the Civil War, Menard served as a supply center for Confederate troops.
The town’s economy initially thrived on agriculture, particularly sheep ranching and the cultivation of crops like cotton. In the late 19th century, the construction of the San Antonio and Aransas Pass Railway through Menard boosted the town’s development. Although the town remained small throughout much of the 20th century, it has maintained its historical charm and continues to serve as a center for agriculture and tourism.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Menard is served by the Menard Independent School District (MISD), which includes Menard High School, Menard Junior High, and several elementary schools. The district provides a strong academic curriculum with a focus on both core subjects and vocational programs. The schools are known for their community involvement and pride, and the athletic programs, including football and basketball, are a big part of local life.
Landmarks in Menard include the historic Menard County Courthouse, built in 1907, which is located in the town square and remains a focal point for the community. The courthouse is a well-preserved example of early 20th-century architecture and stands as a symbol of the town’s heritage. Another key landmark is the Old Fort Menard, a historic site that dates back to the 1850s and was once a military post during the Indian Wars. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic beauty of the San Saba River and the surrounding countryside, which offer opportunities for fishing, hiking, and wildlife observation.
Telegraph
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.5 square miles
- Population: 15 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 76883
- Latitude: 30.8481° N
- Longitude: 99.5367° W
City Location and History
Telegraph is a tiny, unincorporated community located in the southern part of Menard County, about 15 miles southwest of Menard. The community’s history dates back to the late 19th century when it was established as a stagecoach stop along the route between San Antonio and the West Texas frontier. Its name derives from the telegraph line that ran through the area, which served as a vital communication link for settlers and military personnel during the late 1800s. Although small in population, Telegraph was once a thriving stop for travelers and played a crucial role in the region’s development.
Telegraph has remained a rural and agricultural community, with most residents involved in ranching and farming. The town has never grown large, but its historical significance and proximity to natural resources have kept it relevant within Menard County. Today, it is primarily a quiet, sparsely populated settlement with a few buildings and homes, and is mostly known for its historical context.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Being a very small community, Telegraph does not have its own schools. Students from the area typically attend schools in Menard or nearby towns. The Menard Independent School District provides educational services to the surrounding rural communities, including Telegraph.
Telegraph has no major landmarks, but its history as an old stagecoach stop and telegraph station is part of the region’s early settlement legacy. The community remains a small, peaceful area with scenic views of the surrounding countryside. The land around Telegraph is primarily used for agricultural purposes, including cattle ranching and farming, and the region’s natural beauty offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching. The nearby San Saba River also provides a scenic setting for visitors who wish to explore the rugged terrain of Central Texas.
Fort McKavett
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 2.2 square miles
- Population: 25 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 76841
- Latitude: 30.7587° N
- Longitude: 99.8216° W
City Location and History
Fort McKavett is a historic site located in the southwestern part of Menard County, approximately 20 miles southwest of Menard. Established in 1852 as a U.S. Army outpost, the fort was named after Colonel Daniel McKavett, who served in the Indian Wars. The fort’s primary purpose was to protect settlers and mail carriers from attacks by Native American tribes in the region. Fort McKavett served as an important military post during the mid-19th century, playing a crucial role in the defense of West Texas. The fort remained active until 1859, when the U.S. Army abandoned it.
Today, the site of Fort McKavett is a state historic site, with many of its original structures still standing. The fort was not just a military installation; it also functioned as a center for trade, with soldiers and civilians alike engaging in commerce and cultural exchange. Fort McKavett is an important part of Texas’ military history and offers visitors a glimpse into life on the frontier during the mid-1800s.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Fort McKavett has no schools of its own, with students typically attending schools in nearby Menard. As a small community, the focus is primarily on the preservation of its historical site and the surrounding natural environment.
The most prominent landmark in Fort McKavett is the Fort McKavett State Historic Site, which preserves the remains of the military fort and its associated buildings, including barracks, officers’ quarters, and a hospital. The site offers a variety of exhibits and programs that showcase the history of the fort and the people who lived there, including soldiers, settlers, and Native Americans. Visitors can explore the grounds, view historical reenactments, and learn about the region’s history during the Indian Wars. The area around the fort is also known for its natural beauty, with opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing in the surrounding Hill Country landscape.
Junction (Partly in Menard County)
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 4.8 square miles (portion in Menard County)
- Population: 2,500 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 76849
- Latitude: 30.5066° N
- Longitude: 99.7599° W
City Location and History
Junction is a city that lies partly in Menard County, with a portion of its city limits extending into the northern part of the county. Junction is located at the confluence of the North and South Llano rivers, in the heart of the Hill Country. It was founded in the mid-1800s and originally served as a vital crossroads for settlers and travelers heading to and from Central Texas. Junction played an important role in the early development of the region, particularly due to its location along major transportation routes.
The town’s early history was shaped by its role as a cattle-ranching center, with the surrounding ranches providing the primary economic activities. Over time, Junction became a popular stopping point for travelers heading to West Texas, with hotels, inns, and restaurants lining the town’s main streets. Today, Junction is a small but vibrant town that continues to attract visitors due to its scenic location and historical significance. It is known as the “Heart of the Texas Hill Country” for its proximity to the Llano River and natural attractions.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Junction is served by the Junction Independent School District (JISD), which includes Junction High School, Junction Middle School, and several elementary schools. The district provides a well-rounded education with a strong emphasis on both academics and extracurricular activities, including athletics, music, and arts programs.
Landmarks in Junction include the historic Kimble County Courthouse, which was built in 1911 and stands as a testament to the town’s past. The Junction City Park, located along the Llano River, is a popular spot for outdoor activities, offering picnic areas, hiking trails, and swimming opportunities. The town also celebrates its rich history with events like the annual “Junction Rodeo” and “Texas Hill Country Wildflower Exhibit,” which draw visitors from all over the state. The area’s natural beauty, including the nearby South Llano River State Park, makes Junction a destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
