WALLER, TEXAS

History in a Pecan Shell

Named for Edwin Waller, (namesake of neighboring Waller County) when the town was platted in 1884, Waller was a relative upstart compared to its older neighbor Hockley. A post office was applied for within the first month and was soon granted.

Storekeeper "Uncle Doc" Sanders opened his doors for business soon after the post office was opened, thus reversing the usual order of store first, post office second.

In 1889 the town limits were extended beyond the original plat. By 1899 the town had a population of 500. The great Galveston storm of 1900 did substantial damage – ruining the local Baptist College to the point that it wasn’t rebuilt.

A.D. Purvis opened "God's Mercy Store" around 1918 with the unusual concept of “cost plus.” Pricing was at cost and buyers added whatever amount they deemed suitable. Evidently the audience was appreciative since the store continued in business into the 1920s.

Ed and Bob Robertson operated a livery stable after the turn of the century and then became the local Ford dealship after cars were introduced. Many livery stables around the country made the switch from wagons to cars. Those who didn’t modernize soon became defunct.

In the 20s, the Boettcher Cotton Gin served as an area cooperative, marketing cotton and other crops while providing a social framework for the community. Members operated a store, and drove produce and other marketable goods to Houston, returning with necessities that couldn’t be produced locally.

Cotton production declined in the 50’s, dooming the gin, but it didn’t destroy the town. The population has grown from just over 700 in 1950 to almost 1,500 by 1990 and reaching 2,092 by 2000.

Waller became a bedroom community for Houston, even while maintaining its rural flavor.

Barbershop humor: "Buzz cuts, fades, flat tops and business cuts.
Heck, bring the dog / ladies and get 'em a FREE Flat Top."
TE photo, 2007

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