Elgin, Texas
– Bricks, Barbecue, and Beauty.
Located in the heart of Central Texas, Elgin offers a perfect blend of small-town charm, rich history, and architectural beauty. Known as the “Brick Capital of the Southwest,” Elgin has become a must-visit destination for those looking to experience Texas history, vibrant downtown life, and, of course, some of the best barbecue in the state. With its unique character and welcoming community, it’s no surprise that Elgin has made it into our list of top ten favorite towns.
Founding and Name Origins
Elgin was founded in 1872 when the Houston and Texas Central Railroad expanded its line through Central Texas. The town was strategically located to serve as a shipping point for local cotton, wool, and other agricultural products. It was named after Robert Morris Elgin (Elgin is pronounced with a hard “g”), a railroad land commissioner who helped facilitate the development of the railroad in the area.
The arrival of the railroad transformed the region, turning what was once rural farmland into a bustling center for commerce. Elgin quickly grew into a thriving small town, with businesses springing up to support the agricultural community. The town’s growth mirrored that of many Texas towns during this time, as the expansion of the railroad brought new opportunities for trade and travel.
Early History
In the early years, agriculture and the railroad were the lifeblood of Elgin’s economy. Cotton farming was particularly successful, and the town became an important hub for cotton production and shipping. However, as Elgin developed, another industry would come to define the town: brickmaking.
Elgin’s abundant clay deposits gave rise to several brick factories in the early 1900s, which earned the town its nickname, the “Brick Capital of the Southwest.” These factories supplied bricks for construction projects throughout Texas and beyond, and many of Elgin’s own historic buildings are made from the town’s signature bricks.
The combination of agriculture and brickmaking made Elgin an economic powerhouse in the region, and its population steadily grew throughout the early 20th century. While cotton was king, the town’s brick industry set it apart, laying the literal and figurative foundation for the town’s future.
Famous for Barbecue and Sausage
Elgin is not only known for its bricks but also for its sausage. The town is home to two famous sausage companies—Southside Market & Barbeque, which dates back to 1882, and Meyer’s Elgin Sausage. Both are renowned for their delicious Texas-style barbecue and smoked sausage, attracting food lovers from all over the country.
Southside Market & Barbeque, with its deep roots in Elgin, has become a legendary institution, serving up their famous hot sausage and smoked meats for over a century. Similarly, Meyer’s Elgin Sausage offers an equally celebrated taste of Texas, producing smoked sausages that have become a staple for barbecue lovers across the state. Together, these two companies have helped put Elgin on the map as a destination for authentic Texas barbecue.
Interesting Facts
- Elgin is home to the Elgin-Butler Brick Company, one of the oldest brick manufacturers in the region, and many buildings in downtown Austin were built using Elgin bricks.
- The annual Hogeye Festival, held each October, celebrates the town’s heritage, with a special focus on its famous Elgin sausage, arts, crafts, and live music.
- The historic downtown features beautiful examples of 19th and early 20th-century architecture, many of which were constructed using local bricks.
- The town is located just 25 miles east of Austin, making it an easy day trip for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
The First United Methodist Church
One of the highlights of Elgin is the First United Methodist Church, one of Elgin’s oldest, and an architectural gem that captures the essence of the town’s history and charm. While out doing our photography work in Elgin, we were fortunate enough to be invited inside to explore this beautiful building. The church’s architecture is absolutely stunning, with its stained-glass windows casting vibrant hues of light throughout the sanctuary. The original hand-crafted wooden pews are a testament to the craftsmanship of the past, and the church’s warm, welcoming atmosphere reflects the spirit of the community.
The First United Methodist Church is just one example of the rich history that permeates Elgin. Its beauty, both inside and out, is a reminder of the importance of preserving historic landmarks and the stories they tell. For anyone visiting Elgin, taking a moment to step inside this church is a must.
Downtown Elgin: Quaint and Charming
Elgin’s downtown is the heart of the town, offering a quaint and picturesque setting that has stood the test of time. Many of the buildings have been lovingly restored, showcasing their original brick construction and historical charm. Wandering through downtown, you’ll find a variety of local shops, cafes, and businesses, all set against the backdrop of beautiful old buildings.
The downtown area is not only visually appealing but also a vibrant hub of community life. Local festivals, farmers’ markets, and events bring residents and visitors together, making downtown Elgin a lively place to experience the town’s spirit. The charm of Elgin’s downtown is a big part of why it has earned a place among our top ten favorite small towns in Texas.
Elgin Today
Elgin may have a long and storied past, but it’s a town that continues to look forward. While its brickmaking and agricultural industries remain important, the town has also embraced its growing reputation as a destination for food, arts, and culture. In recent years, Elgin has become known for its local arts scene, with galleries, events, and festivals that celebrate the creativity of the community.
The town’s proximity to Austin has also led to growth, with many new residents moving to Elgin in search of a quieter, more affordable lifestyle while still remaining close to the capital city. Despite this growth, Elgin has retained its small-town charm, ensuring that new development is balanced with a respect for the town’s history and character.
Today, visitors to Elgin can enjoy the best of both worlds: a walk through history with its beautifully preserved buildings and a taste of modern Texas culture with its thriving arts and food scenes. The town’s dual identity as a hub for brickmaking and barbecue ensures that it continues to be a unique and vibrant place in the heart of Texas.
Conclusion
Elgin, Texas, is a town that effortlessly combines history, charm, and community spirit. From its origins as a railroad town to its status as the “Brick Capital of the Southwest,” Elgin has evolved over the years while holding on to the best parts of its past. Its picturesque downtown, welcoming atmosphere, and architectural gems like the First United Methodist Church make it a place worth visiting and appreciating.
Whether you’re drawn by its history, its famous sausage, or its beautiful streets, Elgin offers something special for every visitor. It’s a town that captures the heart, and for us, it’s one of the top ten places we hold close to our Texas photography work. Elgin is not just a town to visit—it’s a town to experience, with every brick and every building telling a story of resilience, community, and pride.
Small Town Texas in Photos
225+ Texas Towns, 2500+ Images and Counting!
