Austin County vs. Runnels County
Colonial Roots & Stone City
The week concludes with a contrast between the "Colonial Capital of Texas" and the stone-built heritage of West Texas. Austin County (not the city!) is where Stephen F. Austin established his colony headquarters at San Felipe. Runnels County, near San Angelo, is famous for the beautiful stone buildings of Ballinger and Winters. One is the cradle of Anglo settlement; the other is a monument to frontier permanence.
Austin County (Population Approx. 30,000)
Austin County is history. San Felipe de Austin was the social, economic, and political center of the Stephen F. Austin colony. Today, Bellville and Sealy are charming towns blending that deep history with new growth from Houston. The vibe is proud, historic, and increasingly suburban. Challenges include preserving the rural atmosphere while welcoming new residents.
Runnels County (Population Approx. 9,900)
Runnels County is built to last. Ballinger, the county seat, features the "Greatest Texas Town Square" (according to some) with stunning limestone architecture. The economy is driven by diverse agriculture (cotton, grain, livestock) and oil. The community is resilient and rooted, with a deep appreciation for the craftsmen who built their towns. Challenges include water conservation and economic revitalization.
Why It Matters
Austin County preserves the very beginning of modern Texas governance. Runnels County preserves the architectural legacy of the frontier. Both counties demonstrate the importance of remembering where we came from.
Why Forward
Forward believes that the historian in San Felipe and the stone mason in Ballinger both build our state.
In Austin County, the influx of commuters changes the dynamic. Open Primaries would allow the community to elect leaders who honor colonial history while planning for modern infrastructure, without partisan gridlock. Ranked Choice Voting would help the diverse towns work together.
In Runnels County, the rural economy needs support. Ranked Choice Voting empowers the community to support candidates who prioritize rural healthcare and agricultural water rights. It ensures that the beautiful stone towns remain vibrant for the next generation.
Did You Know…
San Felipe de Austin (Austin County) was the capital of Stephen F. Austin's colony and is considered the "Colonial Capital of Texas."
Ballinger (Runnels) is known for its beautiful red sandstone courthouse and buildings, and features a large cross on the hill overlooking town.
Austin County is NOT the home of the city of Austin (which is in Travis County). It is named for Stephen F. Austin.
Winters (Runnels) is home to the Z.I. Hale Museum, preserving local history.
Stephen F. Austin State Park preserves the natural setting of the Brazos River where the colony began.
Why Texans Love Living Here
Austin residents love the deep connection to the "Old 300," the charming squares of Bellville, and the bluebonnets. Runnels locals love the enduring beauty of the stone buildings, the quiet strength of the community, and the cross on the hill.
Key Events That Bring Neighbors Together
Father of Texas Celebration (San Felipe/Austin): Honoring Stephen F. Austin's birthday.
Texas State Championship Ethnic Food Cook-off (Ballinger/Runnels): A delicious competition celebrating diversity.
Austin County Fair (Bellville): A classic county fair with deep roots.
Winters Blizzard Bazaar: A community holiday event.
People & Tech Created This
The profiles and shared challenges were gathered from Texas Forward Party supporters and written using ChatGPT and Gemini models to combine verified public data, official county/state sources, and general knowledge from Texas historical and government records:
