Justin, Texas
– Justin Boots, Grandpa, and a Fond Memory.
While our Small Town Texas articles are usually written from the third person, I am writing this one in the first person. One of the great pleasures of visiting and photographing small towns is the ability to, occasionally, relive memories. When I visited Justin, Texas, I saw murals and stores proudly displaying Justin Boots in its tiny but charming downtown. This sight instantly brought to mind a memory of my grandpa, Oral Maxwell.
My grandpa was born in 1910 in Nocona, Texas, which, has no direct connection to Justin. The memory came from reading his short memoir where he fondly recalled Justin Boots, writing, “A Texan stands tall and proud in his Justin Boots”, without any more specifics. Whether this was a marketing pitch back in the day or just something my grandpa said, I’ll never know. But as I wandered around town taking photos, especially of the murals, I felt like my grandpa was right there beside me, sharing in a connection to Texas history through Justin Boots and the town of Justin.
The Story Behind the Name
Contrary to what you might think, the town was not named after the famous boots brand. Instead, it was named after Justin Sherman, a prominent figure with the Santa Fe Railroad. Founded in 1887, the town, like many small Texas towns, grew from the arrival of the railroad. The Santa Fe line needed a stop in the area, and the town was platted and named to honor Sherman’s contributions to the railway’s expansion.
This connection to the railroad set the stage for its early growth, transforming it into a local hub for agriculture and trade. As the town grew, it developed a strong community spirit with churches, schools, and businesses popping up to serve the residents.
Growth and Development
It remained a small agricultural town for much of its early history. The railroad was crucial to the town’s growth, allowing local farmers and ranchers to transport their goods to larger markets.
Cotton, corn, and livestock became central to the town’s economy, though life in rural Texas was tough, and the town’s population remained modest.
In the 20th century, the town began to evolve. Its agricultural focus began to shift, and it embraced a new role within Texas culture. Though Justin Boots didn’t originate here, its presence is felt throughout the town. Murals, shops, and even the town’s identity reflect this connection. In truth, Justin Boots began in Spanish Fort, Texas (16 miles north of Nocona), and later moved to Fort Worth, but the shared name has created a lasting bond in people’s minds between the town and the iconic boot brand.
A Personal Connection
For me, this area is more than just a town with a railroad history. The association with Justin Boots brings a sense of nostalgia and a personal connection through my grandpa’s memory. As I explored the town, it was impossible not to think of him and his memories from Nocona.
Walking through downtown, I found the murals particularly striking. They weren’t just pieces of art; they told the town’s story and celebrated its heritage. Small-town murals have a way of connecting the past with the present, and this town’s murals are no exception.
The Town Today
Present-day Justin is proud of its heritage while embracing modern life. With a population of just over 4,000, it maintains the close-knit feel of a small Texas town. Though agriculture no longer defines the local economy, it has become a sought-after place to live for those wanting a quiet life near the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
The downtown area, with its locally owned shops, stands as a testament to its history. The Mercantile and Justin Discount Boots store are popular stops for visitors, giving a glimpse into the town’s Western heritage. While it still holds onto its rural roots, it has grown into a town with new developments and a bright future.
A Place of Fond Memories
For me, this town will always be a place tied to my grandpa’s memory. Whether I’m walking through its historic streets or seeing Justin Boots in shop windows, I’m reminded of that phrase: “A Texan stands tall and proud in his Justin Boots.” The town may not have been named after the boot brand, but it will always hold a special place in my heart.
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Justin may be small, but it’s a town with a rich history and pride you can feel when exploring its streets. It’s a place that honors its past while looking to the future, and for me, it will always be a town full of personal memories and the spirit of Texas.
Author: Tim Maxwell
