SMITHVILLE

Population 3,331

Altitude 324

General

Established about 1827 in a rich farming area, still devoted to agriculture. A large, popular state park is nearby.

BUESCHER STATE PARK - 1,730 acres of rolling, scenic parkland in "Lost Pines" region, also includes groves of huge live oaks festooned with Spanish moss. Camping, shelters, trailers are permitted, rest rooms, picnicking, fishing on Lake Buescher, nature study, hiking. three miles north via Texas 71/95, F.M. 2104 Scenic Park Road 1 connects this park with Bastrop State Park 15 miles west.
RAILROAD HISTORICAL PARK AND MUSEUM - Features old Union Pacific and Missouri-Kansas-Texas (Katy) cabooses, photographs, and railroad memorabilia, and vintage motor car. Museum depicts history of railroad in Smithville and its importance to the community. Katy Depot built from materials salvaged from former station built in the 1890's. Park's gazebo is topped by cupola from 1896 city hall. Park open daily. Museum open during business hours Mon - Fri. Adjacent to the Chamber of Commerce at 102 West First St. For information call (512) 237-2313.