Cities and Towns in Palo Pinto County, Texas
Founded in 1856, Palo Pinto County is one of 254 counties in the state of Texas. Historically, Palo Pinto County was formed from Bosque County and Navarro County. The city of Palo Pinto is the county seat. With FIPS code of 363, Palo Pinto County has a population of 28,686 and area of 953 square miles (2,468 km²).
List of all cities in Palo Pinto County, TX alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Fort Wolters, TX | 76067 | 940 |
| Gordon, TX | 76453 | 940 |
| Graford, TX | 76449 | 940 |
| Mineral Wells, TX | 76067 | 940 |
| 76068 | 940 | |
| Mingus, TX | 76463 | 940 |
| Palo Pinto, TX | 76484 | 940 |
| Salesville, TX | 76067 | 940 |
| Santo, TX | 76472 | 940 |
| Strawn, TX | 76475 | 940 |
Major Cities and Towns in Palo Pinto County, Texas
Mineral Wells
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 6.2 square miles
- Population: 15,400 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 76067
- Latitude: 32.8052° N
- Longitude: 98.1006° W
Location and History
Mineral Wells, located in the northeastern part of Palo Pinto County, is the largest city and county seat. The city was established in the 1880s when it became known for its natural mineral springs, believed to have therapeutic properties. This led to the construction of a variety of health resorts and spas, and by the early 1900s, Mineral Wells had developed into a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors seeking cures for various ailments. The city’s growth accelerated with the arrival of the railroad, which made it more accessible to travelers from nearby areas. By the mid-20th century, however, the popularity of health resorts waned, and Mineral Wells shifted toward industrial and commercial growth. Despite its small size, the city became known for its involvement in the oil industry, as well as for its role in serving as a regional center for agriculture and ranching. In recent decades, Mineral Wells has focused on revitalizing its historical tourism industry, with efforts to restore old buildings and promote the city’s unique history, especially its association with early 20th-century health treatments.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Mineral Wells is served by the Mineral Wells Independent School District, which includes Mineral Wells High School, serving as the center of education for local students. The city also offers other schools such as Mineral Wells Junior High and several elementary schools. The high school is known for its academic programs and extracurricular activities, including sports and fine arts. A significant landmark in Mineral Wells is the Baker Hotel, a grand 1920s-era structure that once hosted celebrities and dignitaries. The hotel has been closed for several years but remains a prominent feature of the city’s historic landscape, and efforts to restore it are ongoing. Another landmark is the Mineral Wells Fossil Park, where visitors can collect fossils from the area’s rich geological history. The city is also home to the National Vietnam War Museum, a tribute to the veterans of the conflict. With nearby Lake Mineral Wells State Park offering opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing, Mineral Wells remains a popular destination for tourists looking to experience Texas history and nature.
Palo Pinto
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.1 square miles
- Population: 300 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 76484
- Latitude: 32.7885° N
- Longitude: 98.3344° W
Location and History
Palo Pinto is a small town located in the southern part of Palo Pinto County. The town was established in the mid-1800s and served as the county seat before the position was moved to Mineral Wells in the 1870s. The area around Palo Pinto has a rich Native American history, with early settlers interacting with the Comanche and other tribes. The town’s name, which means “green stick” in Spanish, is likely derived from the abundance of green trees and vegetation in the area. In the late 19th century, Palo Pinto became a key stop along the Texas and Pacific Railway, which boosted its local economy by making the town a transportation and trade hub. However, as larger towns like Mineral Wells and Weatherford grew, Palo Pinto’s prominence waned. Today, Palo Pinto remains a quiet, rural community with a population that supports local agriculture, including cattle ranching and farming. Though much smaller than its more urbanized neighbors, Palo Pinto still holds historical significance within the county and maintains a traditional Texas town atmosphere.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Palo Pinto is served by the Palo Pinto Independent School District, with the Palo Pinto School as the local educational center. Due to the small size of the town, the school provides a close-knit, personalized education experience. The town is known for its historical landmarks, including the old courthouse building that once served as the center of the county’s legal affairs. The Palo Pinto Cemetery is another historical site, containing graves of early settlers and prominent individuals in the area’s history. Though the town does not have large commercial or tourist attractions, it is located near the scenic Brazos River, offering opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing and hiking. Palo Pinto’s rural charm and historical roots continue to draw those interested in small-town Texas life. Visitors to the area can enjoy the quiet ambiance and explore the nearby Palo Pinto Mountains, which offer picturesque views of the surrounding landscape. The local economy remains tied to agriculture and small businesses, and the town’s historical character is well-preserved through the efforts of its residents.
Santo
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.8 square miles
- Population: 1,100 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 76472
- Latitude: 32.5810° N
- Longitude: 98.3307° W
Location and History
Santo is a small community located in the southwestern part of Palo Pinto County, Texas. The town was founded in the late 1800s by German settlers who were drawn to the area for its fertile soil and ideal agricultural conditions. Santo’s early history was deeply tied to agriculture, particularly farming and ranching, and the town quickly became a small agricultural center. The name “Santo” is derived from the Spanish word for “saint,” likely in reference to the Catholic influence in the region. Over time, the town developed a tight-knit community, and many of its early settlers were involved in local trade and small businesses. While it never grew to be a major urban center, Santo’s location near the Brazos River and its close proximity to larger towns like Mineral Wells and Weatherford provided it with important trade routes and access to regional markets. Today, Santo remains a quiet, rural town, with a small population and an economy centered around agriculture and local services.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Santo is served by the Santo Independent School District, with Santo High School being the primary institution for local students. The district is known for its close-knit educational community, where students can engage in a wide variety of extracurricular activities, including sports and local events. One of the town’s most prominent landmarks is the historic Santo Baptist Church, which has served as the center of religious and community life for many years. The church building is one of the oldest structures in town and remains a symbol of the town’s founding German heritage. Another significant landmark is the nearby Brazos River, which provides scenic views and opportunities for outdoor recreation such as fishing and boating. The town is also close to the Palo Pinto Mountains, a small but scenic range that offers hiking and wildlife viewing. Santo is a quiet and peaceful place that preserves its rural charm while offering residents access to the resources of larger cities in the surrounding area.
Strawn
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.0 square miles
- Population: 600 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 76475
- Latitude: 32.6181° N
- Longitude: 98.4296° W
Location and History
Strawn is a small town located in the southeastern part of Palo Pinto County, Texas. The town was established in the late 19th century, with settlers drawn to the area by the construction of the Texas and Pacific Railway. Like many small Texas towns, Strawn’s early economy was based on agriculture, particularly cattle ranching, and it became a vital shipping point for goods transported by rail. In the early 20th century, Strawn gained some recognition as a service center for nearby ranches and farms. The town is perhaps best known for its proximity to the famous “Strawn’s” steakhouse, a local institution that has become a point of pride and a notable attraction for visitors. The town was named after a prominent local family, and though it has never had a large population, Strawn has retained much of its historical charm. Today, Strawn continues to serve as a quiet agricultural community, with residents primarily engaged in ranching and farming.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Strawn is served by the Strawn Independent School District, which includes Strawn High School and several elementary schools. Despite its small size, the school district is known for providing a quality education and strong community involvement. One of the town’s most famous landmarks is Strawn’s Steakhouse, which has been serving up hearty Texas meals to locals and travelers for decades. The restaurant is renowned for its steaks and remains a gathering place for the community. The nearby Lake Palo Pinto provides residents with opportunities for boating, fishing, and outdoor recreation, while the surrounding landscape is perfect for hiking and wildlife viewing. Strawn’s location near the Palo Pinto Mountains also makes it an attractive destination for those looking to enjoy scenic views and the natural beauty of the area. The town’s quiet, rural atmosphere and strong sense of community make it a unique and welcoming place to live or visit.