Cities and Towns in Swisher County, Texas

Founded in 1876, Swisher County is one of 254 counties in the state of Texas. Historically, Swisher County was formed from Bexar County. The city of Tulia is the county seat. With FIPS code of 437, Swisher County has a population of 7,008 and area of 900 square miles (2,331 km²).

List of all cities in Swisher County, TX alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Happy, TX 79042 806
Kress, TX 79052 806
Tulia, TX 79088 806
Vigo Park, TX 79088 806

Major Cities and Towns in Swisher County, Texas

1. Tulia

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:

  • Area: 1.8 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 5,000
  • Zip Codes: 79088
  • Latitude: 34.5449° N
  • Longitude: 101.7475° W

Location and History:

Tulia, the county seat of Swisher County, is located in the northeastern part of the Texas Panhandle. The city was established in 1890 and named after the Tule River, which once ran through the area. Early settlers were primarily ranchers and farmers, drawn to the fertile soil and availability of water. Tulia quickly developed as a commercial and transportation hub when the railroad arrived in 1907, which allowed for the shipment of cattle and crops. The city’s agricultural roots remain strong, with cotton farming and cattle ranching continuing to be vital to its economy. Throughout the 20th century, Tulia experienced periods of both growth and economic difficulty, as it was affected by the cyclical nature of agriculture. The city has adapted to modern times by expanding its services, infrastructure, and small businesses, while still retaining its rural charm and strong sense of community.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Tulia is served by the Tulia Independent School District, which includes Tulia High School, Tulia Middle School, and several elementary schools. The district offers strong educational programs, including athletics and extracurricular activities. One of the city’s notable landmarks is the Swisher County Courthouse, an iconic building in the downtown area that symbolizes the county’s rich history. Tulia is also known for the Swisher County Museum, which showcases the area’s agricultural heritage, early settlers, and local history. Other points of interest include the Tulia City Park, a popular spot for families and outdoor activities, and the annual Swisher County Rodeo, which attracts visitors from across the region. The surrounding agricultural landscape, dotted with cotton fields and cattle ranches, is a major part of Tulia’s identity and economic base. Though small, the city embraces its western roots and continues to celebrate its agricultural and ranching heritage.

2. Kress

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:

  • Area: 0.6 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 1,400
  • Zip Codes: 79052
  • Latitude: 34.3253° N
  • Longitude: 101.8509° W

Location and History:

Kress is a small town located in the southeastern part of Swisher County, Texas. The town was established in 1911 and named after its founder, Julius Kress, a prominent businessman and railroad executive. Kress quickly grew as a railroad town and became a center for farming and ranching in the area, primarily focusing on cotton, grains, and livestock. The arrival of the railroad and the development of agricultural infrastructure helped Kress thrive in its early years. Like many small towns in the Texas Panhandle, Kress experienced periods of economic hardship, especially during the Great Depression, but it has remained a close-knit community. Today, the town has a population of just over 1,400 people, and while agriculture still plays a central role in its economy, Kress is also home to a mix of small businesses and local services. Kress remains a quintessential rural Texas town, proud of its agricultural roots and small-town charm.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

The Kress Independent School District provides educational opportunities for students in the area, with Kress High School and Kress Elementary School being the primary institutions. The school district offers a variety of academic programs, athletics, and extracurricular activities to engage students and foster community spirit. Kress is home to several local landmarks, such as the Kress Community Park, which provides residents with recreational spaces for sports and leisure activities. The Kress Cemetery, located on the outskirts of town, is a historical site with graves dating back to the early settlers of the area. The Kress Historical Museum, though small, provides a glimpse into the town’s early days and its ties to the railroad industry. Visitors often enjoy exploring the town’s quiet streets, where the small, early 20th-century buildings are a testament to Kress’s long-standing agricultural legacy. Kress is also known for its close community events, such as the annual Kress Cotton Festival, which celebrates the town’s agricultural roots and brings people together for a weekend of festivities.

3. Happy

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:

  • Area: 1.3 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 600
  • Zip Codes: 79042
  • Latitude: 34.6124° N
  • Longitude: 101.6820° W

Location and History:

Happy is a small town in the southwestern corner of Swisher County, Texas. It was founded in the early 1900s as a stop along the railroad and was originally a farming and ranching community. The town’s name, “Happy,” was reportedly chosen because the founding members were hopeful that the town would bring them happiness and prosperity. This optimism has become a defining characteristic of the community. Agriculture has remained the backbone of Happy’s economy, with cotton, wheat, and cattle being primary industries. Despite its small size, Happy has earned a reputation for its strong sense of community and hospitality. The town may be small, but it has a rich history and a future built on close connections between its residents. Over time, Happy has faced the challenges typical of rural Texas towns, such as population decline and the changing nature of agriculture, but it has managed to maintain its identity and provide its residents with a quiet and peaceful rural lifestyle.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Happy is served by the Happy Independent School District, which includes Happy High School and Happy Elementary School. The district is known for its small, close-knit school environment, where students benefit from a strong academic focus and involvement in athletics, including football and basketball. While there are no large-scale commercial landmarks in Happy, the town prides itself on its local parks and outdoor spaces, such as the Happy City Park. The park serves as a hub for community events and outdoor activities. The Happy Cemetery is another notable site, marking the history of the town’s early settlers. Residents gather for various local festivals, such as the Happy Harvest Festival, which celebrates the town’s agricultural heritage and strengthens its sense of community. The small town atmosphere and tight-knit community are central to the town’s charm, making Happy a true representation of rural Texas. The historical structures, including old farmhouses and barns, give the town a rustic, historical feel, offering a glimpse into its past.