Taylor, Texas

Taylor, Texas
Name	Taylor
Settlement type	City
Nickname	The Ice Cream Capital of Texas
Pushpin label	Taylor
Coordinates	30, 34, 21, N...
Subdivision type	Country
Subdivision name	United States
Subdivision type1	State
Subdivision name1	Texas
Subdivision type2	County
Subdivision name2	Williamson
Established title	Founded
Established date	1876
Established title2	Incorporated
Established date2	1882
Government type	Council–Manager
Leader title	Mayor
Leader name	Brandt Rydell
Leader title1	City Manager
Leader name1	Brian LaBorde
Area total km2	47.80
Area total sq mi	18.46
Area land km2	47.70
Area land sq mi	18.42
Area water km2	0.10
Area water sq mi	0.04
Elevation m	172
Elevation ft	564
Population total	16125
Population as of	2020
Population density km2	auto
Population density sq mi	auto
Timezone	Central (CST)
Utc offset	-6
Timezone DST	CDT
Utc offset DST	-5
Postal code type	ZIP code
Postal code	76574
Area code	512
Blank name	FIPS code
Blank info	48-71948
Blank1 name	GNIS feature ID
Blank1 info	1347891
Website	http://www.taylortx.gov/

Taylor, Texas. A city in Williamson County, Texas, it was established in 1876 as a stop on the expanding International-Great Northern Railroad. Historically a major hub for cotton ginning and shipping, its economy later became defined by food processing, most notably as the longtime home of the Blue Bell Creameries headquarters. Located within the Austin metropolitan area, it has experienced significant residential growth while retaining its historic downtown centered on Main Street.

History

The town's origins are tied to the railroad expansion of the Missouri, Kansas and Texas Railroad and land grants from the Texas and Pacific Railway. Named for Edward Moses Taylor, a railroad official, it quickly became a vital shipping point for the region's agricultural products, leading to the construction of numerous cotton gin facilities. The arrival of the Taylor, Bastrop and Houston Railway further solidified its role. In the early 20th century, the Southern Pacific Transportation Company maintained major operations here. A pivotal development occurred in 1907 when the Blue Bell Creameries was founded, becoming the city's most famous employer. The community was also the site of significant labor history, including a notable 1930s strike at the Taylor Bedding Manufacturing Company.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 18.46 square miles, nearly all of it land. It is situated on the Blackland Prairie ecoregion of Central Texas, approximately 35 miles northeast of Austin. The terrain is generally flat to gently rolling. Major thoroughfares include U.S. Route 79 and State Highway 95. The city lies within the watershed of the San Gabriel River.

Demographics

As of the 2020 United States census, the population was 16,125. The racial makeup was diverse, with a significant Hispanic or Latino community. The population has grown steadily due to its proximity to Austin and relatively affordable housing. Data from the American Community Survey indicates a median household income slightly below the state average. The Williamson County seat of Georgetown is located to the west.

Economy

For decades, the economy was dominated by Blue Bell Creameries, which earned the city its nickname. While Blue Bell's corporate headquarters moved to Brenham in 2006, a major production facility remains. Other significant employers include Samsung, which operates a large semiconductor plant in nearby Austin, drawing commuters. The Taylor Independent School District is a major public employer. Historic downtown has seen revitalization with new restaurants and shops, and the city is actively promoting industrial development in its business parks.

Culture and recreation

The city celebrates its heritage with events like the annual Taylor International Barbecue Cook-Off. The historic Taylor Downtown Commercial District features architecture from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Cultural venues include the Moody Museum and the Taylor Public Library. Recreational facilities are centered at Murphy Park, which hosts sports leagues and community events. The city is also known for its proximity to outdoor activities along the San Gabriel River and at Lake Granger.

Government

Taylor operates under a Council–manager government system. The city council, led by the mayor, sets policy, while a professional city manager oversees daily operations. The city provides full municipal services, including a police department, fire department, and public works. It is part of Texas's 31st congressional district, represented in the U.S. House by a member of the Republican Party. At the state level, it lies within Texas Senate district 5 and Texas House of Representatives district 52.

Category:Cities in Texas Category:Williamson County, Texas Category:Austin metropolitan area