Williamson County, Texas is a place with a rich and vibrant history that dates back to the 18th century. The first known inhabitants of the area were the Comanches, who lived in parts of Williamson County until late 1838. Evidence of human habitation in the area dates back to 11,200 years ago, with the discovery of the Lady of Leanderthal, a set of ancient bone remains found by workers from the Texas Department of Transportation while drilling core samples for a new road. The site has been studied extensively and carbon samples from this site date back to the Pleistocene period, some 10,500 years ago. Prehistoric and archaic open-occupancy camps have also been found throughout the county along streams and other water sources. The first known historic occupants of Native Americans were the Tonkawa, who were hunters that worked flint and followed the buffaloes on foot.
They transitioned to horse culture and used firearms to a limited extent. Comanches continued to attack settlements in the county until the 1860s. A small number of Kiowa, Yojuane, Tawakoni and Mayeye Indians also lived in the county at the time of the first Anglo-Saxon settlements. Williamson County has an area of 1,134 square miles (2,940 km), with 1,118 square miles (2,900 km) being land and 16 square miles (41 km) (1.4%) being water. The eastern part of Williamson County lies within the low-lying prairie areas east of the Balcones Escarpment.
It begins as a foothills, a slightly sloping downline suitable for feet of land that descends to the coastal area, an area of the Black Lands prairie that consists of rich, fertile and clay-containing soils. This area is still used for agriculture, with cotton and other crops being grown and livestock being raised. Williamson County was formed on March 13, 1848 from Milam County and was organized in August of the same year. It was named after Robert M. Williamson and Georgetown was established as its county seat in 1848. In 1850, Col.
Glasscock built the first sawmill and mill on the San Gabriel River in Williamson County. By 1870, livestock had become its main industry and cotton cultivation had become profitable. The Court of Commissioners is responsible for all budgetary decisions in Williamson County as well as setting its tax rate each year. It is composed of five members with a county judge presiding as president and four Commissioners elected by single-member districts every four years. Williamson County is located in the southwest corner of Texas' largest agricultural section and is bordered by Burnet County to its west and Bell County to its north. Its cotton harvest has given Williamson second place in the United States for production of this staple food. Williamson County is a place full of history and culture that has something for everyone.
From its ancient Native American inhabitants to its modern day agricultural industry, there is something special about this unique corner of Texas that makes it stand out from other counties in the state. Whether you're looking for outdoor activities like camping or fishing or just want to explore some local history, Williamson County has something for everyone. With its rich history and vibrant culture, it's no wonder why so many people choose to call this place home.
