Cities and Towns in Motley County, Texas
Founded in 1876, Motley County is one of 254 counties in the state of Texas. Historically, Motley County was formed from Bexar County. The city of Matador is the county seat. With FIPS code of 345, Motley County has a population of 1,067 and area of 989 square miles (2,561 km²).
List of all cities in Motley County, TX alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Flomot, TX | 79234 | 806 |
Matador, TX | 79244 | 806 |
Roaring Springs, TX | 79256 | 806 |
Major Cities and Towns in Motley County, Texas
Motley County, located in the northwestern part of Texas, is home to several small towns and communities. Each has a unique history and plays a role in the rural culture of the region. Below are the details about the prominent towns in the county.
Matador
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.9 square miles
- Population: 1,060 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 79244
- Latitude: 34.0319° N
- Longitude: 100.2310° W
City Location and History
Matador is the county seat of Motley County and is located in the northern part of the county, along U.S. Highway 70. The town’s name comes from the Spanish word for “bullfighter,” reflecting the area’s early association with cattle ranching and the livestock industry. Matador was founded in the early 1900s and grew as a result of its position on the Texas and Pacific Railway, which facilitated trade and transportation. During its early years, Matador thrived as an agricultural hub, especially known for cattle ranching. In the 1920s, the town faced economic challenges due to droughts and the Great Depression, but it has continued to persist with a focus on farming and ranching.
Over the years, Matador has maintained its small-town charm and is proud of its Western heritage. The town’s history is preserved in local landmarks, including old buildings and historical markers scattered throughout the area. Despite its small size, Matador serves as an important center for the surrounding rural communities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Matador is served by the Motley County Independent School District, which includes the Motley County High School and Matador Elementary School. The town also has a public library, providing resources for both students and the community.
Landmarks include the historic courthouse, which stands at the heart of the town, and the Matador Ranch, a large cattle ranch that contributes to the local economy. The surrounding countryside is dotted with several historic ranching properties that offer a glimpse into the town’s agricultural past. Local events, such as the annual Rodeo Days festival, celebrate Matador’s rich cowboy culture and are key to the community’s social life.
Roaring Springs
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.4 square miles
- Population: 127 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 79256
- Latitude: 33.6875° N
- Longitude: 100.6814° W
City Location and History
Roaring Springs is a small town located in the southwestern part of Motley County, near the banks of the Brazos River. The town was founded in the late 1800s, with its name derived from the natural springs that flow in the area. These springs were important in the development of the town as a water source for early settlers and as a center for ranching. In its early days, Roaring Springs was a bustling community with a post office, a general store, and a few businesses. However, as the surrounding area became more focused on agriculture, the town’s growth slowed, and many residents moved to larger towns for work.
Despite its small size, Roaring Springs remains a place where residents take pride in their heritage, and it is known for its quiet, rural atmosphere. While the town never expanded to become a major urban center, it has served as a peaceful retreat for those wanting to experience the slow pace of country life in the Texas plains.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Roaring Springs is served by the Roaring Springs Independent School District, which includes a small K-12 school. This district is a cornerstone of the town’s community, offering both educational services and extracurricular activities for local children.
Key landmarks in Roaring Springs include the natural springs from which the town derives its name, and a historic stone bridge over the Brazos River. The area around Roaring Springs is also known for its scenic views and outdoor recreational opportunities, such as hunting and birdwatching, drawing visitors from nearby towns who enjoy the natural beauty of the Texas plains. Additionally, the town celebrates local heritage through small community events and gatherings, often highlighting the agricultural history of the area.
Cherry Creek
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.5 square miles
- Population: 38 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 79220
- Latitude: 33.5386° N
- Longitude: 100.4464° W
City Location and History
Cherry Creek is one of the most rural communities in Motley County, located in the southeastern part of the county near the intersection of U.S. Highway 84 and State Highway 207. Established in the late 19th century, Cherry Creek originally functioned as a ranching community, supporting local cattle and sheep farmers. The town’s name is derived from Cherry Creek, a small stream that runs through the area. In its early years, the town was a central point for the surrounding farming families to gather, with a schoolhouse, general store, and post office.
The town’s growth, however, was stunted by the hardships faced by the area, including frequent droughts and the eventual decline in agricultural industry. Today, Cherry Creek is primarily a farming and ranching community, with a very small population. Despite its decline in population over the years, Cherry Creek remains a part of the rural fabric of Motley County, offering residents and visitors alike a tranquil retreat into the West Texas countryside.
Major Schools and Landmarks
As a very small community, Cherry Creek does not have its own school district; children attend school in nearby towns like Matador. The local community is centered around agriculture, with many residents involved in farming and ranching.
The town’s most notable landmark is Cherry Creek itself, which provides a scenic backdrop to the otherwise flat landscape. While the community lacks larger commercial establishments, the area is recognized for its quiet, rural charm and the surrounding landscapes, including wide open spaces and natural brush. Cherry Creek’s simplicity and tranquility make it a haven for those seeking to disconnect from urban life, often drawing nature lovers and local ranchers who appreciate the vast open areas. Local celebrations and events are small and community-oriented, focused on agricultural heritage and the traditions of rural living.