Cities and Towns in Shackelford County, Texas
Founded in 1858, Shackelford County is one of 254 counties in the state of Texas. Historically, Shackelford County was formed from Bosque County. The city of Albany is the county seat. With FIPS code of 417, Shackelford County has a population of 3,212 and area of 914 square miles (2,367 km²).
List of all cities in Shackelford County, TX alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Albany, TX | 76430 | 325 |
| Moran, TX | 76464 | 325 |
Major Cities and Towns in Shackelford County, Texas
Albany
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.8 square miles
- Population: 2,000 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 76430
- Latitude: 32.7236° N
- Longitude: 99.2761° W
Location and History
Albany is the county seat of Shackelford County, situated in the heart of West Texas, approximately 30 miles northeast of Abilene. The town was established in the 1850s and was named after Albany, New York, due to the influence of early settlers from the northeastern United States. Albany’s history is intertwined with the expansion of the cattle industry, as the town became a prominent trading center for ranchers and farmers in the area. In the late 19th century, Albany flourished with the arrival of the railroad, and its strategic location along the Fort Worth and Denver Railway helped it grow into a thriving community. The town’s history includes ties to significant military and frontier events, as it was close to several important sites during the Indian Wars. Today, Albany retains its small-town charm while preserving its historical roots, featuring several well-maintained historic buildings and cultural landmarks. The town’s location in the Cross Timbers region of Texas provides it with scenic views and outdoor activities, making it an appealing place for both residents and visitors.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Albany is served by the Albany Independent School District, which includes Albany High School, Albany Junior High School, and several elementary schools. The district offers a range of academic and extracurricular programs, including sports, arts, and academic competitions. Albany is known for its historical charm, with landmarks such as the Shackelford County Courthouse, a classic example of early 20th-century Texas architecture. The courthouse, built in 1911, is the centerpiece of the town’s vibrant downtown district. The town also boasts the Old Jail Art Center, a former jailhouse converted into a museum and art gallery, showcasing works from local artists as well as regional and national collections. The nearby Fort Phantom Hill, located just north of the town, is a historic site that once served as a military outpost during the Indian Wars. Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins and learn about the area’s military history. The town’s annual events, such as the Albany Heritage Days, celebrate its rich cultural and historical heritage, drawing visitors from across the region.
Moran
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.2 square miles
- Population: 300 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 76464
- Latitude: 32.5820° N
- Longitude: 99.3434° W
Location and History
Moran is a small, rural town in the northern part of Shackelford County, about 20 miles west of Albany. Established in the late 1800s, Moran developed around the railroad and quickly became a stop for cattle drives heading toward markets in larger cities like Fort Worth. The town’s early economy was based on agriculture, including cotton farming and ranching, as well as the burgeoning oil industry in the region. Moran’s history is linked to the growth of the Texas frontier, with settlers coming from across the United States to take advantage of the fertile land. The town has maintained a quiet, rural character over the years, and while it has never been a large center of commerce, Moran has a rich local history and a strong community spirit. As the railroad business declined, Moran’s economy shifted to agriculture, with local ranching remaining a key industry. The town’s peaceful, small-town atmosphere is enhanced by its scenic views and proximity to the scenic hills of the region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Moran is served by the Moran Independent School District, which includes Moran High School and Moran Elementary School. The district offers a close-knit learning environment where students are able to participate in various extracurricular activities, from sports to academic clubs. Although Moran lacks the larger landmarks of other towns, it is home to a strong local community centered around family and tradition. One of the town’s major landmarks is the historic Moran Cemetery, which serves as a reminder of the town’s early pioneers and ranching families. The town also hosts various annual events, such as the Moran Labor Day Picnic, which brings residents together for food, music, and recreation. While Moran does not boast major tourist attractions, its charm lies in its history, tight-knit community, and connection to the rural life that defines much of West Texas. Visitors to the town can enjoy the peaceful surroundings, picturesque landscapes, and a genuine small-town experience that reflects the heritage of the area.
