Uvalde County vs. Morris County
Rivers & Steel
This match-up pairs the crystal clear waters of the Frio River with the industrial history of Northeast Texas. Uvalde County is the "Honey Capital of the World," a gateway to the Hill Country famous for Garner State Park. Morris County, in the piney woods, grew up around the Lone Star Steel plant. One is defined by summer vacations and resilience; the other by manufacturing and state parks.
Uvalde County (Population Approx. 24,000)
Uvalde County is a place of profound beauty and deep community strength. Garner State Park and the Frio River draw generations of Texas families every summer. The town is known for its Huajillo honey and as the hometown of Matthew McConaughey. Recently, the community has shown incredible resilience and unity in the face of tragedy. Challenges include water conservation and healing.
Morris County (Population Approx. 11,000)
Morris County is small but industrial. Daingerfield and Naples are the hubs. The economy was built on the steel industry, and Daingerfield State Park offers a "Cathedral of the Trees" experience. The vibe is hardworking, forested, and neighborly. Challenges include economic diversification as heavy industry shifts and maintaining rural infrastructure.
Why It Matters
Uvalde County creates memories for millions of Texans. Morris County helped build the state's infrastructure with its steel. Both counties demonstrate the resilience of rural communities in the face of economic and social challenges.
Why Forward
Forward believes that the park ranger in Concan and the steelworker in Daingerfield both serve our state.
In Uvalde County, the community deserves responsive leadership. Open Primaries would allow voters to choose leaders who prioritize safety, mental health resources, and water protection over partisan politics. Ranked Choice Voting would help the community heal and move forward together.
In Morris County, the industrial legacy is strong. Ranked Choice Voting empowers the workforce to support candidates who prioritize vocational training and rural economic development. It ensures that the steel country has a voice.
Did You Know…
Uvalde is the "Honey Capital of the World" due to the high quality huajillo honey produced there.
Garner State Park (Uvalde) is the most visited overnight state park in Texas, famous for its nightly summer jukebox dances.
Daingerfield State Park (Morris) is known for its "Cathedral of the Trees" and vibrant fall foliage.
Morris County was a major center for iron ore mining and steel production during the 20th century.
Matthew McConaughey and Dale Evans were both born in Uvalde.
Why Texans Love Living Here
Uvalde residents love the cool river water, the shade of the pecan trees, and the strength of their neighbors. Morris locals love the autumn colors, the fishing in the park, and the pride of their industrial roots.
Key Events That Bring Neighbors Together
Uvalde Honey Festival: A sweet celebration of the local product.
Daingerfield Days (Morris): A fall festival with parades and community fun.
Frio River Festival (Uvalde): Music and fun on the water.
Oatmeal Festival (Bertram - Correction: Bertram is Burnet. Let's use Naples Watermelon Festival for Morris): Naples Watermelon Festival is a Morris County staple.
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:
