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Circle "R"
Guest Ranch, Medina, Texas
Postcard
courtesy www.rootsweb.com/ %7Etxpstcrd/ |
History in
a Pecan Shell
In 1865 it was
reported that a cluster of families had settled around a sawmill here.
The community was granted a post office in 1880.
In the 1890s, Medina had grown to include most essential businesses
as well as a hotel, a (private) bank and three stores to serve 150
residents.
In 1914 Medina had grown to 400 residents but fell by 150 as the Great
Depression settled in. After WWII
it enjoyed a replenished population, bring it back to 475.
Livestock raising remained the primary economic engine. Apple cultivation
was introduced in the 1980s and before the end of the decade, Medina
had been declared the official Apple Capital of Texas (Texas Agricultural
Commission).
In 1990 the immediate vicinity around Medina produced 100 tons of
apples.
The 1990 census reported just over 500 residents, although people
are scattered. The estimate of people residing in Medina proper is
said to be closer to 250. |
Medina Area
Scenic Drive
From "Swimming
to Mexico" - Part
III:
"Leaving Kerrville on Hwy 16 you encounter a rise in elevation
until you descend into the Medina River Valley. The small town of
Medina is near the headwaters of the Medina River which flows past
Bandera and into Medina Lake
in Medina County.
At Medina head west on 337. The east-and-west route of FM337
is a scenic route not to be missed. It would be best if you had the
sun behind you. Take this road in the early morning if you can. If
not, strong sunglasses would be in order especially in the late afternoon
to navigate the uphill and downhill curves of the road on steep slopes
overlooking cloistered valleys. While on-coming traffic is sparse,
you’ll probably encounter it on a curve. An abundance of Texas mountain
laurel would make this a trip to take again in the spring when they
bloom in profusion." |
Related Story:
Pansy
by Mike Cox ("Texas Tales" column)
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Bandera
County 1920s Map showing Medina
(NW of Bandera)
From Texas state map #10749
Courtesy
Texas General Land Office |
| Texas
Escapes, in its purpose to preserve historic, endangered and vanishing
Texas, asks that anyone wishing to share their local history, stories,
landmarks and recent or vintage photos, please contact
us. |
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