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MAC Austin - Historical Background
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Austin has a history of burgeoning growth, beginning with the Texas Declaration of Independence on March 2, 1836. As the new nation, dubbed the Republic of Texas, Mirabeau B. Lamar felt a new seat for the government was in order - one named for Stephen F. Austin, founder of the Republic. Lamar sent Edwin Waller to survey the beautiful land off of the Colorado River to found the new capitol. The city was planned in a grid pattern that still maps the downtown area. Congress Avenue was the center street, with the north/south streets named for Texas rivers. The Capitol was moved to Austin in 1839, with 50 ox-drawn wagons transporting archives and furniture from the previous seat of government in Houston, Texas.

This newly established country continued to be part of the frontier. The fierce battles of the Mexican-American War marked the following decade, and there was an attempt to move the Capitol away from Austin. But the residents of the city made sure that even if the government chose to move further away from the war zone, the archives and records remained in the city. As a result of their efforts - known as the Archive War - Texas joined the United States in 1845, and Austin was named the state capital.



The 1850s

The 1850s saw a period of tremendous growth. The first limestone Capitol building, the Governor's Mansion and General Land Office Building were erected. In 1888, structural problems and a fire destroyed the original Capitol, but a new Texas State Capitol building, made of Hill Country granite, was completed to replace the burned structure. The Governor's Mansion is still in pristine condition, and the General Land Office is one of the state's oldest surviving office buildings.



University of Texas

While surveying for the City of Austin, Edwin Waller also laid out 40 acres for the University of Texas campus. Over 40 years later, construction began on the Main Building at the center of the site. In 1883, the west wing was completed in time for the first class of 221 students. But 35 years after the building was completed, discussions began for expanding the library facilities on campus. After great debate, plans were announced to destroy the old building in order to construct a new administration and library facility. That new building is now known as the University of Texas Tower, standing 307 feet tall and boasting one of the best views of the city from the observation deck.



Booming Growth

1871 brought a new era of success to Austin with the Houston and Texas Central Railway. This line was one of the westernmost railroads in Texas and the only railroad for scores of miles. Today, visitors can ride those same rail lines on the Austin Steam Train.

The population boomed. Education became a secondary industry. In 1881 Austin became known as a seat of education with the opening of Tillotson Collegiate and Normal Institute, now known as Huston-Tillotson College. Just four years later, St. Edward's University opened its doors.

The turn of the century brought even more success to the bustling town of Austin. Elisabeth Ney blessed the city with her talents as a sculptress and William Sidney Porter (also known as O. Henry) wrote his celebrated stories there. By the 1920s, the city had acquired Barton Springs, adopted a council-manager government, and drew up a new city plan that included a focus on beautification, parks and recreation.

The Great Depression was hard-felt among the Austin population, but the city continued to grow. In 1941, Mansfield Dam was completed, creating Lake Travis. This, combined with the development of the Highland Lake system, created a wonderful recreation site that still attracts throngs of people today.



1950s to Present

The 1950s brought on the realization that the city could not continue its massive growth with only academia and government as an economic base. The Chamber of Commerce began to attract high-tech companies to the city. By the mid-seventies, three of the largest high-tech manufacturing companies had plants in Austin. In the 1980s, two major research consortiums, Microelectronics and Computer Technology and Sematech, had been brought to the city. Now, Austin is known as one of the high-tech centers of the United States, with offices for hundreds of high-tech companies.

Austin's volatile past has created an exciting environment for its residents. The explosive growth has brought more than just people; entertainment, through theater, museums, film, music and the arts, has become a prominent aspect of the Austin lifestyle. City planning has preserved greenbelts and parks so residents can have easy access to natural habitats. The lakes provide fantastic water sports during the day, and Sixth Street offers a nightlife of dining and dancing.









Copyright 1999-2005 Wcities, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Contact Wcities

Austin Steam Trains/River City Flyer


Ride on an historic locomotive
Fifth Steet at Comal
(Plaza Saltillo)
Austin, TX 78767
United States
+1 512 477 8468
http://www.austinsteamtrain.org/
Escape from the 21st Century and journey back into the Great West aboard the Hill Country Flyer, a vintage passenger train making day-trip excursions every weekend year-round. Departing from Cedar Park, only 20 miles north of downtown Austin, each train ride offers 1920s coach cars for families on a budget and 1950s Pullman lounge cars for leisure travelers. Special excursion trains throughout the year include storybook specials for children, mystery dinner trains for adults, and holiday rides to local festivals along the train route. The vintage train is operated by the dedicated volunteers from the Austin Steam Train Association, a community-based non-profit organization. Ticket prices range from $18-$43 on the Hill Country Flyer, and $12-$32 on the Bertram Flyer.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Congress Avenue


Historic business district
Congress Avenue
(from 1st to 11th Streets)
Austin, TX 78701
United States
As one of Austin's most important streets, Congress Avenue's entire district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The buildings that frame the street are full of distinctive beauty. The oldest documented building is the Robinson-Rosner Building at 504 Congress (1856). Starting at the Capitol, the street continues south, passing fabulous little shops and eateries. Stop in at Hickory Street for a quick lunch, check out The State Theater or Paramount Theater to see what fantastic production is going on in the evening, or wander into Star bucks for coffee and treats.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Congress Avenue photo by Mark Norman Francis
Photo: Mark Norman Francis
Congress Avenue photo by Michael Lovitt
Photo: Michael Lovitt
Congress Avenue photo by Christopher Murphy
Photo: Christopher Murphy
Congress Avenue photo by Hao Chao
Photo: Hao Chao
Congress Avenue photo by Jonathan Arehart
Photo: Jonathan Arehart
Congress Avenue photo by sisterbean
Photo: sisterbean
Congress Avenue photo by Juliet Dervin
Photo: Juliet Dervin
Congress Avenue photo by Philip Korshak
Photo: Philip Korshak
Congress Avenue photo by Terri Yu
Photo: Terri Yu
Congress Avenue photo by aeddubh
Photo: aeddubh
Congress Avenue photo by Ken Liu
Photo: Ken Liu
Congress Avenue photo by David O. Conrad
Photo: David O. Conrad
Congress Avenue photo by Raymond
Photo: Raymond
Congress Avenue photo by Shelley & Grant McDaniel
Photo: Shelley & Grant McDaniel
Congress Avenue photo by librarygroover
Photo: librarygroover
Congress Avenue photo by kendrakim13
Photo: kendrakim13
Congress Avenue photo by Dan Morales
Photo: Dan Morales
Congress Avenue photo by Rene Flores
Photo: Rene Flores
Congress Avenue photo by eabenes
Photo: eabenes
Congress Avenue photo by Khildram
Photo: Khildram
Congress Avenue photo by Danila Daniloff
Photo: Danila Daniloff
Congress Avenue photo by Kimberly Coutts
Photo: Kimberly Coutts
Congress Avenue photo by Yulie Reutovich
Photo: Yulie Reutovich
Congress Avenue photo by Jeremiah Adams
Photo: Jeremiah Adams
Congress Avenue photo by Sarah Polkinghorne
Photo: Sarah Polkinghorne
Congress Avenue photo by Manuel Delgado Tenorio
Photo: Manuel Delgado Tenorio
Congress Avenue photo by Andy Davy
Photo: Andy Davy
Congress Avenue photo by Chad W Beckerman
Photo: Chad W Beckerman
Congress Avenue photo by Elizabeth Yockel
Photo: Elizabeth Yockel
 

 
East 6th Street


Entertainment district
E 6th St
Austin, TX 78701
United States
+1 512 478 0098 (Austin Convention & Visitors Bureau)
One of the first streets surveyed in Austin, Sixth was originally known as Pecan Street. During the day, shops, restaurants and historic buildings are the main attraction, but by night, the street becomes festive with live music, shows and special events. On Friday and Saturday nights, the blocks are closed to automobile traffic for an all-out street party. Stop by for a beer or a show, or just enjoy watching the eclectic nightlife of Austin. After the bars close at 2a, this can be a dangerous place to hang out alone.

Review © 2007, Wcities
East 6th Street photo by Trey Philips
Photo: Trey Philips
East 6th Street photo by Jeff C
Photo: Jeff C
East 6th Street photo by Neil Rickards
Photo: Neil Rickards
East 6th Street photo by phillipschmandt
Photo: phillipschmandt
East 6th Street photo by Elizabeth Hansen
Photo: Elizabeth Hansen
 

 
Emma Long Metropolitan Park


Camping, boat ramps, lakefront
1600 City Park Rd
Austin, TX 78730
United States
+1 512 974 6700
This park offers over 1,000 acres of land with nearly a mile of lakefront. Visitors can go boating and utilize the park's two boat ramps. Skiing, fishing and relaxing on the sandy waterfront are also options. There is a swimming area that employs lifeguards on summer weekends. Be sure to notice the ash, oak and juniper trees throughout the park. Sixty-six campsites are available, some along the waterfront, and pets on a leash are welcome.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Emma Long Metropolitan Park photo by Loulia Miller
Photo: Loulia Miller
Emma Long Metropolitan Park photo by Ken Cobb
Photo: Ken Cobb
Emma Long Metropolitan Park photo by Loulia Miller
Photo: Loulia Miller
Emma Long Metropolitan Park photo by Ronnie Pitman
Photo: Ronnie Pitman
 

 
General Land Office Building


the Oldest State Agency in Texas
1700 North Congress Ave
Austin, TX 78701
United States
+1 512 463 5001
http://www.glo.state.tx.us/ind...
General Land Office Building is over 150 years old, is dedicated to balancing economic development with preservation of the state's natural resources. Established in 1836 after Texas gained its independence from Mexico, its duties have evolved from keeping archives and issuing land titles to managing state lands and mineral properties totaling 20.3 million acres. Other responsibilities include the Recycling, Adopt-A-Beach, Coastal, and Oil Spill Prevention and Response Programs. The Archives and Records division houses original Spanish, Mexican and Republic of Texas land grants and related documents.

Review © 2007, Wcities
General Land Office Building photo by Seth Gaines
Photo: Seth Gaines
General Land Office Building photo by Seth Gaines
Photo: Seth Gaines
General Land Office Building photo by Cliff Gilley
Photo: Cliff Gilley
General Land Office Building photo by Liz Jury
Photo: Liz Jury
 

 
Governor's Mansion of Texas


Greek Revival-style historic home
1010 Colorado St
Austin, TX 78701
United States
+1 512 463 5518
http://www.governor.state.tx.u...
This is one of the oldest governor's mansions in the country that is still being used on a continuous basis. Builder Abner Cook created a simple square home with four rooms downstairs and four rooms upstairs. A conservatory was added in 1914 along with a new kitchen area. The home showcases original artwork and furniture from yesteryear, as well as modern pieces added during the 1980s restoration. Guests are invited to enjoy viewing the first floor and lush grounds surrounding the home. Tours are limited to 25 people; please arrive early to assure your spot.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Governor's Mansion of Texas photo by Veerle Pieters
Photo: Veerle Pieters
Governor's Mansion of Texas photo by Chris Drumgoole
Photo: Chris Drumgoole
Governor's Mansion of Texas photo by Matthew D. Sheppard
Photo: Matthew D. Sheppard
Governor's Mansion of Texas photo by Jennifer E. Garrett
Photo: Jennifer E. Garrett
Governor's Mansion of Texas photo by Peter Czukor
Photo: Peter Czukor
Governor's Mansion of Texas photo by Matt Sprague
Photo: Matt Sprague
Governor's Mansion of Texas photo by John_VigiL
Photo: John_VigiL
Governor's Mansion of Texas photo by Tim Merckx
Photo: Tim Merckx
Governor's Mansion of Texas photo by Clara
Photo: Clara
Governor's Mansion of Texas photo by fashionistatv.com
Photo: fashionistatv.com
Governor's Mansion of Texas photo by Kent68
Photo: Kent68
Governor's Mansion of Texas photo by cat_face
Photo: cat_face
 

 
Huston-Tillotson University


Austin's oldest college
900 Chicon St
Austin, TX 78702
United States
+1 512 505 3000
http://www.htc.edu/
Time brought Tillotson Collegiate and Normal Institute (established in 1877) and Samuel Houston College (established 1900) together in 1952. The merged college now known by the joint name is a fantastic campus and educational facility. One of the older buildings is Evans Hall, originally part of the old Tillotson College campus. This limestone building was constructed entirely by students. Prospective students and the general public are welcomed to follow guided tours of the campus.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Huston-Tillotson University photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
O. Henry House Museum


Visit the 1890s home of O. Henry
409 E Fifth St
Austin, TX 78701
United States
+1 512 472 1903
http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/par...
Short story writer William Sydney Porter, whose pen name was O. Henry, lived in this home for three years while he spent time in Austin. It was constructed in 1891 and is filled with rare books, O. Henry's writing desk, original furniture, photographs, personal belongings and the chairs that brought The Gift of the Magi to life. Enjoy a guided tour and learn about the history of this home and its famous occupant. The home has been moved twice since from its original location at 308 East Fourth Street. It now features a gift shop with books, videotapes and more. The museum offers writing clubs for Austin children and sponsors many local events such as the Victorian Christmas celebration and the "O. Henry Pun-Off." Admission is free, but donations are welcome.

Review © 2007, Wcities
O. Henry House Museum photo by Franklin B. Thompson
Photo: Franklin B. Thompson
 

 
Old State Capitol Building Ruins


This is where Texas began
Congress Ave at 11th St
Austin, TX 78701
United States
Originally housing the first classes ever held by the University of Texas at Austin in 1894, the remains of Austin's first state house is directly across from the current State Capitol Building. Once serving as a temporary capitol building after a fire destroyed the original, the only remains are the foundation and cistern. Take a moment and consider the great achievements, trials and tribulations that have molded Texas into the state it is today.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Old State Capitol Building Ruins photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
St. Edward's University


South Austin Landmark
3001 South Congress
(at St. Edward's Drive)
Austin, TX 78704
United States
+1 512 448 8400
http://www.stedwards.edu
Architect Nicholas J. Clayton of Galveston designed the beautiful main building (1888) in a Gothic Revival style with Texas white limestone. A fire destroyed most of the main building in 1903 and after being rebuilt, it was again severely damaged by a tornado in 1922. The University received its charter in 1925. Since that time, the academic programs have grown to include business administration, theater arts and an innovative undergraduate program for adults. The graduate school includes a Master of Arts in Human Services, Photo communications, International Studies, Communication, Business, Theater and Spanish/Liberal Arts.

Review © 2007, Wcities
St. Edward's University photo by Michael P. Gilbert
Photo: Michael P. Gilbert
St. Edward's University photo by Michael P. Gilbert
Photo: Michael P. Gilbert
St. Edward's University photo by Thomas Deitner
Photo: Thomas Deitner
St. Edward's University photo by Nathan Bernier
Photo: Nathan Bernier
St. Edward's University photo by sans flago
Photo: sans flago
St. Edward's University photo by beckyadams49
Photo: beckyadams49
 

 
Texas State Capitol


The heart of Texas
1100 Congress Ave
Austin, TX 78701
United States
+1 512 463 0063
http://www.capitol.state.tx.us...
The slogan states that "everything is bigger in Texas," and if you look at our Capitol, the phrase rings true. Standing a stately 309 feet and modeled after the nation's Capitol in Washington D.C., this is the nation's tallest. Designed by architect Elijah E. Myers and constructed of red granite, the Capitol took more than seven years to complete. It was finished in 1888, at a total cost of more than three million dollars, an extravagant price even by today's standards. The perfectly landscaped grounds reflect the languid pace of life under the Texas sun, inviting you for a quiet stroll or a lazy day under a tree. Tours: Daily except Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Day. Allow 30-45 minutes for the tour.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Texas State Capitol photo by Mike Gonyou
Photo: Mike Gonyou
Texas State Capitol photo by Hugo Rodriguez
Photo: Hugo Rodriguez
Texas State Capitol photo by novak rogic
Photo: novak rogic
Texas State Capitol photo by J. Sulaeman
Photo: J. Sulaeman
Texas State Capitol photo by Faramarz S
Photo: Faramarz S
Texas State Capitol photo by Chris Anderson
Photo: Chris Anderson
Texas State Capitol photo by Patrick McLeod
Photo: Patrick McLeod
Texas State Capitol photo by Dave Wilson
Photo: Dave Wilson
Texas State Capitol photo by Kelly Donaldson
Photo: Kelly Donaldson
Texas State Capitol photo by J Wynia
Photo: J Wynia
Texas State Capitol photo by Irene C.
Photo: Irene C.
Texas State Capitol photo by Pete Fuller
Photo: Pete Fuller
Texas State Capitol photo by Ken Shanaberger
Photo: Ken Shanaberger
Texas State Capitol photo by Elan Ruskin
Photo: Elan Ruskin
Texas State Capitol photo by David Ruppert
Photo: David Ruppert
Texas State Capitol photo by Nick Saum
Photo: Nick Saum
Texas State Capitol photo by bkmcae
Photo: bkmcae
Texas State Capitol photo by devirdaim
Photo: devirdaim
Texas State Capitol photo by rahrahrah
Photo: rahrahrah
Texas State Capitol photo by Nabeel Ahmad
Photo: Nabeel Ahmad
Texas State Capitol photo by Andrew Caird
Photo: Andrew Caird
Texas State Capitol photo by Mike Todd
Photo: Mike Todd
Texas State Capitol photo by Bristol SXSW
Photo: Bristol SXSW
Texas State Capitol photo by Gay Carrillo
Photo: Gay Carrillo
Texas State Capitol photo by Russell Jumonville
Photo: Russell Jumonville
Texas State Capitol photo by Caryn Rauh
Photo: Caryn Rauh
Texas State Capitol photo by Ross Mackenzie
Photo: Ross Mackenzie
Texas State Capitol photo by Jason Cooke
Photo: Jason Cooke
Texas State Capitol photo by Raghu Jana
Photo: Raghu Jana
Texas State Capitol photo by Jörg
Photo: Jörg
Texas State Capitol photo by Darryl Stein
Photo: Darryl Stein
Texas State Capitol photo by Poonam Thaker
Photo: Poonam Thaker
Texas State Capitol photo by JohnG
Photo: JohnG
Texas State Capitol photo by Jason Rosenberg
Photo: Jason Rosenberg
Texas State Capitol photo by cnkimpel
Photo: cnkimpel
Texas State Capitol photo by SUE O'BRIEN
Photo: SUE O'BRIEN
Texas State Capitol photo by Andrew Huber
Photo: Andrew Huber
Texas State Capitol photo by Iohan Reyes
Photo: Iohan Reyes
Texas State Capitol photo by Silvester Divas
Photo: Silvester Divas
 

 
University of Texas Campus Tours


Take a guided tour of UT
24th Street at Whitis Ave
University of Texas campus, Main Building
Austin, TX 78712
United States
+1 512 475 7399
http://www.utexas.edu/student/...
The best way to learn about the University of Texas at Austin campus is through one of their wonderfully informative tours. Student guides lead walking tours and discuss a wide range of issues including academic programs, student services, community life and the history of the university. Tours start at the Information Desk on the ground floor of the Main Building (also known as the UT Tower). Wear comfortable shoes-the campus is much larger than the original 40 acres designated to hold these facilities. The tours last about one to one and a half hours. For larger groups, make reservations at least two weeks in advance by calling +1 512 475 7399. Note: During the months of May and December, only one tour is offered at 2pm each day, Monday through Saturday. No tours on official University holidays.

Review © 2007, Wcities
University of Texas Campus Tours photo by Aaron Ray
Photo: Aaron Ray
University of Texas Campus Tours photo by Jeff C
Photo: Jeff C
University of Texas Campus Tours photo by Christopher Houben
Photo: Christopher Houben
University of Texas Campus Tours photo by Kathleen Cowhig
Photo: Kathleen Cowhig
University of Texas Campus Tours photo by Elke & Andrew
Photo: Elke & Andrew
University of Texas Campus Tours photo by Melissa Baldwin
Photo: Melissa Baldwin
 

 
University of Texas Tower


Towering over Austin
2400 Inner Campus Drive
University of Texas Campus
Austin, TX 78731
United States
+1 512 475 6633
http://www.utexas.edu/tower/
Standing 27 stories high, the University of Texas Tower (the main administrative building) is a fixture in the Austin skyline. Standing very close to the height of the Capitol, the observation deck provides a beautiful view of the city. A testament to school spirit, the tower shines in burnt orange, and the bells peal to hail the University sports teams' victories. This stunning architectural beauty is a must-see when visiting the campus.

Review © 2007, Wcities
University of Texas Tower photo by George Hsu
Photo: George Hsu
University of Texas Tower photo by Nicole
Photo: Nicole
University of Texas Tower photo by Dustin Slater
Photo: Dustin Slater
University of Texas Tower photo by Gema Blanton
Photo: Gema Blanton
University of Texas Tower photo by Nancy Cook-Henderson
Photo: Nancy Cook-Henderson
University of Texas Tower photo by Mark Schaffer
Photo: Mark Schaffer
University of Texas Tower photo by Ping & Wenji
Photo: Ping & Wenji
University of Texas Tower photo by Patricia Alcoseba
Photo: Patricia Alcoseba
 

 
University of Texas Visitors Information Center


Located in beautiful historic building
Interstate 35 and Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd
Austin, TX 78712
United States
+1 512 471 6498
http://www.utexas.edu
This historic building was originally designed as the Austin Asylum for the Blind in 1857. In post-Civil War Reconstruction, Major George Armstrong Custer occupied it. Today, it is a starting point for visitors to the University of Texas campus. Prospective students are encouraged to visit the Freshman Admissions Center located in this building to receive admission counseling and information about the university, as well as attend programs especially designed to meet the needs of incoming freshmen.

Review © 2007, Wcities
University of Texas Visitors Information Center photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
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Other nearby cities:
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Albuquerque (984 miles)
St. Louis (1154 miles)
Nashville (1212 miles)

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