History of Bastrop County, Texas
Bastrop County, located in Central Texas, boasts a rich and diverse history that spans centuries, beginning with its Indigenous roots and continuing through its pivotal role in early Texas settlements. Named after Felipe Enrique Neri, Baron de Bastrop, a Dutch nobleman who aided the early Texian settlers, the county has witnessed significant events, from Native American encounters to the Republic of Texas and the Civil War. Its historical landmarks and thriving communities paint a vivid picture of Texas’ evolution from Spanish colonialism to modern-day growth. Today, Bastrop County is a vibrant blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Origins of Bastrop County
Indigenous Peoples and Early European Exploration
Before European settlers arrived, Bastrop County was inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Tonkawa, Karankawa, and Caddo. These groups relied on the region’s abundant natural resources, including the Colorado River, for sustenance. In the late 17th century, Spanish explorers, led by figures such as Alonso de León, began traveling through Texas, claiming land for Spain and establishing missions along the way. However, it wasn’t until the 18th century that the Spanish established more permanent settlements in Central Texas, including areas near what is now Bastrop County.
Spanish and Mexican Rule
During the 1700s, Bastrop County was part of the Spanish province of Texas. The Spanish presence in the region was limited, with settlements concentrated along the San Antonio River and the East Texas Missions. The land now known as Bastrop County was largely untouched, aside from sporadic Spanish expeditions and trading activities. Following Mexico’s independence from Spain in 1821, the area became part of the Mexican state of Coahuila y Tejas. In the 1820s, Mexico began granting land to settlers, which eventually attracted Anglo-American colonists, including Stephen F. Austin’s “Old Three Hundred.”
Republic of Texas and Early Statehood
Bastrop County’s history took a decisive turn in the 1830s, during the period of the Republic of Texas. The county was officially established in 1837 and named after the Dutch-born empresario, Baron de Bastrop, who had played a crucial role in helping establish Austin’s colony. By the time Texas gained its independence from Mexico in 1836, Bastrop County was a key area for settlement due to its fertile land and strategic location along the Colorado River.
Key Historical Events
The Founding of Bastrop
Bastrop, the county seat, was established in 1832 by Henry and John P. B. Wells, who founded the town in an area known for its oak groves and proximity to the Colorado River. The settlement quickly grew into a center of trade and commerce, with the river serving as a vital transportation route. The name “Bastrop” was chosen to honor the Baron de Bastrop, who had been influential in securing land grants for settlers.
The Texas Revolution and Civil War
Bastrop County played an important role during the Texas Revolution (1835-1836). It was home to a number of key figures in the fight for independence from Mexico. As settlers and soldiers moved into the region, the town of Bastrop became a staging ground for troops. The county also saw skirmishes and battles as the Texian rebels fought for independence.
During the Civil War (1861-1865), Bastrop County, like much of Texas, sided with the Confederacy. The town of Bastrop became a key site for Confederate troops, and its residents were involved in various aspects of the war effort. Following the end of the Civil War, Bastrop, like many Southern towns, faced economic hardships as it rebuilt its economy and infrastructure.
Post-Civil War and Economic Development
After the Civil War, Bastrop County’s economy began to recover, with agriculture playing a central role. Cotton, cattle, and timber were the primary economic drivers, and the construction of railroads in the late 19th century allowed for easier transportation of goods. The establishment of schools, churches, and businesses helped to stabilize the community. However, it wasn’t until the early 20th century that Bastrop County began to fully embrace tourism and outdoor recreation, taking advantage of the region’s natural beauty and proximity to Austin, Texas.
Historical Sites in Bastrop County
Bastrop County is home to several historic sites that reflect its rich history and cultural heritage. From early settlements to natural landmarks, these sites are a testament to the region’s significance in the larger narrative of Texas history.
Bastrop State Park
Overview:
Bastrop State Park, located just southeast of the city of Bastrop, is one of the most popular historical and recreational sites in the county. The park was established in the 1930s and is known for its lush forests, scenic hiking trails, and historic Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC)-built structures. The park is situated along the banks of the scenic Lake Bastrop, a reservoir created by the damming of the Colorado River. Visitors can explore the park’s rich history, which includes its role in the Great Depression-era CCC camps and its significance as a regional hub for outdoor recreation.
Location:
Bastrop State Park, 100 Park Road 1A, Bastrop, TX 78602
Ticket Price:
$5 per person (entrance fee); additional fees for camping and certain activities.
Parking Information:
Free parking is available at various locations throughout the park. There are designated parking areas near trailheads, the park headquarters, and near the lake.
The Bastrop County Courthouse
Overview:
The Bastrop County Courthouse, located in the heart of downtown Bastrop, is an iconic symbol of the county’s history. Built in 1883, the courthouse is a stunning example of 19th-century Romanesque Revival architecture. Its unique design features a large clock tower and intricate stonework. The courthouse remains an active hub for the county’s judicial activities and serves as a focal point for the community. Visitors can admire the architectural details and learn about the historical significance of the building, which has witnessed many key moments in the region’s development.
Location:
Bastrop County Courthouse, 804 Pecan St, Bastrop, TX 78602
Ticket Price:
Free admission (visitors are welcome to admire the exterior; however, interior access may be limited due to court proceedings).
Parking Information:
Street parking is available around the courthouse square, with free public parking lots nearby.
The Lost Pines Forest
Overview:
The Lost Pines Forest is a rare ecosystem that lies in the heart of Bastrop County. The forest is home to a unique stand of loblolly pines that is isolated from other similar forests in the region. These pines are thought to have once extended through much of Central Texas, but due to changing climate and land use, they are now restricted to this small area. The Lost Pines area is steeped in history and folklore, with the pines themselves serving as a natural landmark for Native Americans, early settlers, and soldiers. Today, the forest is a popular site for hiking and nature walks, with various trails that lead visitors through the towering trees.
Location:
Lost Pines Forest, located in Bastrop State Park and the surrounding area.
Ticket Price:
Access to the Lost Pines is included with the Bastrop State Park entrance fee.
Parking Information:
Parking is available at various points within Bastrop State Park, including near the hiking trails that lead into the Lost Pines Forest.
El Camino Real
Overview:
El Camino Real, or the “Royal Road,” is an ancient Spanish trade route that passed through Bastrop County. It connected the Spanish missions of Texas to the northern provinces of Mexico. Early settlers, traders, and missionaries traveled along the route, making it a vital pathway in the development of Texas. Today, portions of the old road can still be visited, and markers have been placed to commemorate its significance. This historical trail offers visitors a glimpse into the early colonial history of Texas and the expansion of European influence in the region.
Location:
El Camino Real, marked throughout Bastrop County with historical markers.
Ticket Price:
Free access.
Parking Information:
Various pull-offs and designated spots along the highway where the historical markers are located.
County Facts
Geography and Climate
Bastrop County covers approximately 900 square miles, with diverse terrain that includes flat plains, hilly ridges, and dense forests. The county is bisected by the Colorado River, which provides ample water resources for the area’s agricultural industry. The Lost Pines Forest, a unique ecological region, is a defining feature of the county’s landscape. Bastrop County’s climate is classified as humid subtropical, with hot summers and mild winters. Average summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, while winter temperatures can drop to the low 30s°F. The area receives moderate rainfall, especially during spring and fall months.
- Year Founded: 1837
- County Seat: Bastrop
- Population: Approximately 100,000 (as of 2023)
- Population Density: 111.1 people per square mile
- Largest Cities: Bastrop, Cedar Creek, Elgin
- Major Highways: U.S. Highway 290, U.S. Highway 71, State Highway 95
- Adjacent Counties: Travis, Williamson, Lee, Fayette, Lavaca
