Small Towns of Texas
Compelling articles exploring the Small Towns of Texas charm and character
The Small Towns of Texas by Mansfield Photography
We are passionate about capturing and sharing the essence of Texas’s small towns through captivating articles that highlight their unique charm and character. With thousands of Small Town Texas images, our content delves into a wide spectrum of subjects, from the picturesque beauty of these historic communities to the rich history and cultural landmarks that define them. Each article is crafted with care to bring the stories of Texas’s small towns to life, offering readers an intimate look at the traditions, architecture, and natural landscapes that make these places special. Whether it’s the bustling energy of a local festival or the serene quiet of a forgotten downtown, we strive to showcase the diverse and enduring spirit of Texas’s small-town life.
We invite you to explore our “Small Towns of Texas” articles and immerse yourself in the stories and images that celebrate these unique communities. Whether you’re a native Texan with a love for your state’s history or a traveler seeking new destinations, we hope that your visit to Mansfield Photography is both inspiring and enjoyable. Our goal is to ignite a sense of curiosity and appreciation for the hidden gems scattered across Texas, encouraging you to discover and connect with the small towns that make this state so rich in culture and heritage.
Articles:
Brenham, Texas – And the Best Ice Cream 34 States Can’t Buy
Brenham, Texas – And the Best Ice Cream 34 States Can’t Buy. Brenham, Texas, may not be the biggest town in the Lone Star State, but it certainly packs a punch when it comes to history, architectural beauty, and a hometown flavor that’s recognized across the country. Whether you’re strolling through its stunning…
Waxahachie, Texas – Victorian Charm, Beautiful Downtown
Waxahachie, Texas – Victorian Charm with a Beautiful Downtown. Founded in 1850 as the county seat of Ellis County, Waxahachie, Texas, began its story as a modest settlement along the banks of Waxahachie Creek. The name “Waxahachie” is said to derive from the Native American words for “cow” or “buffalo” and “creek,” though…
Kilgore, Texas – Home of the “World’s Richest Acre”
Kilgore, Texas – Home of the “World’s Richest Acre”. Founded in 1872 with the arrival of the International-Great Northern Railroad, Kilgore, Texas, began as a modest railroad stop. It was named after Constantine Buckley Kilgore, a local landowner, politician, and former Confederate officer who played an important role in securing the railway’s path…
Marshall, Texas – The Town of Nicknames
Marshall, Texas – The Town of Nicknames. Marshall, Texas, is a town that wears its history, culture, and beauty proudly. From its early days as a transportation hub to its modern identity as a cultural beacon, this East Texas city has continually adapted and thrived. Founded in 1841 and named after Chief Justice…
Rusk, Texas – Steam Engines and a Famous Dogwood
Rusk, Texas – Steam Engines and a Famous Dogwood. Rusk, Texas, may be a quiet town located in the heart of the Piney Woods, but its history, natural beauty, and family-friendly attractions make it a standout. Founded in the mid-19th century and named after a Texas hero, Rusk has managed to preserve its…
Mason, Texas – Picture-Perfect with a Wild History
Mason, Texas – Picture-Perfect Small Town with a Wild History. Tucked into the heart of the Texas Hill Country, the town of Mason has an impressive story dating back to the 1850s. Officially founded in 1858, Mason was named after Fort Mason, an army post established nearby to protect settlers from Native American…
Sulphur Springs, Texas – The Fairy Tale Town of East Texas
Sulphur Springs, Texas – The Fairy Tale Town of East Texas. Tucked away in the heart of East Texas, Sulphur Springs is more than just a charming small town—it’s a place where history, beauty, and community come together in a storybook setting. With its quaint downtown, breathtaking courthouse, and streets lined with brick,…
Denison, Texas – Saving The Vineyards of France and the Katy
Denison, Texas – Saving The Vineyards of France and the Katy. Denison, Texas, founded in 1872, owes its origin to the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad (MKT), commonly known as the “Katy.” The town was strategically planned as a hub along this vital railway line, connecting Texas to the Midwest. Named after George Denison, a director…
La Grange, Texas – Beautiful and Historic
La Grange, Texas – Beautiful and Historic. Situated in Fayette County, La Grange, Texas, boasts a rich history that traces back to the early 1800s. The town is believed to be named after the Château de la Grange-Bléneau in France, the home of the Marquis de Lafayette, a hero of the American Revolution…
Bowie, Texas – A Frontier Town with Sharp History and Wild Tales
Bowie, Texas – A Frontier Town with Sharp History and Wild Tales. Founded in 1881, Bowie, Texas, takes its name from one of the most famous figures in Texas history—James Bowie. Known for his role in the Texas Revolution and his famous knife-fighting skills, Bowie left a legacy that matched the rugged spirit…
Elgin, Texas – Bricks, Barbecue, and Beauty
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…
Nacogdoches, Texas – The Oldest Town in Texas
Nacogdoches, Texas – “The Oldest Town in Texas”. Nacogdoches, Texas, isn’t just a fun name to say—it’s a town that impresses in every way. Known as “The Oldest Town in Texas,” this East Texas town is overflowing with history, culture, and beauty. From its lively, picturesque downtown to its deep historical roots, there’s…
Sealy, Texas – The Town That Built More Than Mattresses
Sealy, Texas – The Town That Built More Than Mattresses. Founded in 1879, Sealy, Texas, emerged as a key stop along the Gulf, Colorado, and Santa Fe Railway. Named after George Sealy, a prominent businessman and railroad director, the town quickly became a transportation and commercial hub in Austin County. George Sealy’s influence…
Balmorhea, Texas – An Unexpected Oasis in the Desert
Balmorhea, Texas – An Unexpected Oasis in the Chihuahuan Desert. The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail. – Isaiah 58:11 In the vast, arid Chihuahuan Desert,…
Grand Saline, Texas – and the Famous Texas Salt Dome
Grand Saline, Texas – and the Famous Texas Salt Dome. Grand Saline, Texas, is a town whose story is as deep as the salt it’s known for. With a history dating back to the days of the Caddo Indians, this small East Texas town has long been tied to one of the earth’s…
Jasper, Texas – Where History and Nature Collide
Jasper, Texas – Where History and Nature Collide. Jasper, Texas, is a town with a rich history and abundant natural beauty, offering visitors a glimpse into its past while providing a gateway to some of the most serene landscapes in East Texas. Nestled in the heart of the Piney Woods, this town, founded…
Justin, Texas – Justin Boots, Grandpa, and a Fond Memory
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…
Wellington, Texas – Timeless Tales and Brick Streets
Wellington, Texas – Timeless Tales and Brick Streets. Wellington, Texas, located in the vast stretches of the Texas Panhandle, is a small town that holds stories of resilience, culture, and history. This community, located in Collingsworth County, carries a legacy far greater than its size might suggest. From its unique downtown to tales…
Brady, Texas – The Heart of Texas
Brady, Texas – The Heart of Texas. Brady, Texas, pulses with a vibrant story that reflects the history, architecture, and unique character of central Texas. Known as the “Heart of Texas” for its location near the geographic center, Brady serves as a fascinating stop for history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to…
Hico, Texas – A Historic Gem with Billy the Kid Folklore
Hico, Texas – A Historic Gem with Billy the Kid Folklore. Nestled in the heart of Central Texas, Hico is a small town with a rich and vibrant history. The town was first settled in 1856 by a handful of pioneers who were drawn to the area’s fertile land and abundant water supply…
Palestine, Texas – A Gateway to East Texas Charm and History
Palestine, Texas – A Gateway to East Texas Charm and History. Located in the heart of East Texas, Palestine is a town that seamlessly blends historical significance with modern charm. Its rich past, picturesque downtown, and welcoming community have made it a destination for history buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, and travelers looking for a…
Texas & Beyond Wall Art
Acrylic, Framed, Metal, & More
Stock Photos
Royalty Free as Low as $1.99
LATEST FROM THE JOURNAL:
7 Texas Ghost Towns That Have Stories to Tell
7 Texas Ghost Towns – With Stories to Tell. Texas is a state of diverse landscapes, history, and culture. But among its vast expanses, some towns have faded into the backdrop of history, leaving behind eerie remnants of what once was. These ghost towns can be intriguing for anyone with an interest in…
2025 Texas Bucket List: Off the Beaten Path (Part 1)
2025 Texas Bucket List – Off the Beaten Path (Part 1). Over the past few years, we’ve driven tens of thousands of miles across Texas, photographing more than 400 small towns. While many people create guides and bucket lists, what sets ours apart is that we’ve personally visited every single town included. Through…
Bracketing in Photography – Tackling Difficult Lighting
Bracketing in Photography – Tackling Difficult Lighting. Photographing a lively city scene at night can be as challenging as it is exciting. The balance of light and shadow often varies dramatically, making it difficult to capture a well-exposed image in a single shot. If you can’t achieve a good exposure setting, this is…