Anson, Texas
– Cowboys, Culture, and “No Dancing”.
Anson, Texas, is a small town with a big history, filled with colorful traditions and a unique cultural identity. Founded in 1881 and named after Anson Jones, the last president of the Republic of Texas, this town has witnessed decades of change while holding on to its Western roots. From its quirky “no dancing” law to hosting the famous Texas Cowboys’ Christmas Ball, Anson has long been a hub of cowboy culture and Texan pride.
How Anson Got Its Name and Early History
Anson started out as “Jones City” in 1881, named after the surrounding Jones County, but by 1882, it was renamed in honor of Anson Jones, the last president of the Republic of Texas. Originally settled due to its location near railroads, the town quickly grew into a regional agricultural center, with cotton and cattle ranching driving its economy.
By the early 1900s, Anson had grown into a bustling small town, complete with schools, churches, and various businesses that served the agricultural communities in the region. Its strong connection to the cowboy lifestyle, however, set it apart from other small towns in Texas.
The Texas Cowboys’ Christmas Ball: A Celebration of Tradition
One of Anson’s most famous events is the annual Texas Cowboys’ Christmas Ball, a celebration that brings together locals and visitors alike to honor cowboy culture through music, dance, and history
This event dates back to 1885 when rancher M.G. Rhodes threw the first dance to celebrate Christmas with local cowboys and their families. The tradition stuck, and since then, it has evolved into one of the most unique celebrations in Texas.
Held in Pioneer Hall, which was specifically built to host the event in 1934, the Texas Cowboys’ Christmas Ball keeps the spirit of the Old West alive. From traditional Western music to square dancing, the event captures the heart of cowboy culture. It even inspired country singer Michael Martin Murphey, who performs annually at the ball, to write a song about the event.
“No Dancing” in Anson
For many years, the town upheld a strict law that prohibited dancing. In 1933, the Anson City Council passed an ordinance banning public dancing within the city limits, largely due to pressure from local religious leaders who felt it was inappropriate.
The Texas Cowboys’ Christmas Ball was able to skirt the law by holding their event just outside city limits, but the town’s “no dancing” law remained on the books for decades. It wasn’t until the late 1980s that the ban was finally repealed, allowing the Christmas Ball and other events to be celebrated within city limits without controversy.
In October 1987, over 300 people showed up to do the Texas two-step at the town`s first legal public dance in 54 years! The “no dancing” ordinance is now a quirky part of the town’s history, adding to its unique character.
Interesting Facts About Anson
- County Seat: Anson serves as the county seat of Jones County, and the town’s courthouse is a stately building, and one of the most beautiful in Texas, that adds to its historical charm.
- Pioneer Hall: Aside from hosting the Texas Cowboys’ Christmas Ball, Pioneer Hall is also used for other community events, making it a central gathering place for residents.
- Western Influence: Anson’s history is deeply tied to its Western and cowboy roots, with many of the local traditions reflecting the lifestyle of the early settlers and ranchers in the region.
The Historic Opera House
One of Anson’s architectural highlights is its historic Opera House. Built in 1907, the Anson Opera House served as the town’s cultural hub for decades, hosting plays, musical performances, and social events. It was the place where the community gathered to enjoy entertainment in the early 20th century, making it an important landmark in the town’s history.
While the Opera House no longer hosts regular performances, it stands as a reminder of Anson’s once-thriving cultural scene. Efforts have been made over the years to preserve and restore the building, keeping its history alive for future generations.
Present Day Anson
Today, Anson is a quiet town with a population of just over 2,000 people. While it may not be bustling with activity, it remains a proud community that cherishes its history and traditions.
The Texas Cowboys’ Christmas Ball continues to draw visitors from all over the country, keeping the town’s connection to its Western heritage alive.
Downtown Anson is home to a mix of historic buildings, many of which date back to the town’s early days. While some of the structures are in need of restoration, others have been repurposed for modern businesses, giving the downtown area a sense of both history and possibility.
The town is also home to various small businesses, schools, and churches, making it a place where families can still experience the charm of small-town Texas life. Though it may not be growing rapidly, Anson’s strong sense of community ensures that it will continue to be a place where traditions are honored, and history is cherished.
Conclusion
Anson, Texas, may be small, but it’s a town with big stories and a proud heritage. From its quirky “no dancing” law to the famous Texas Cowboys’ Christmas Ball, Anson is a place where the past is very much alive. Whether you’re drawn to its cowboy traditions, historical landmarks like the Opera House, or its charming downtown, Anson offers a unique glimpse into Texas’ cultural history.
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