Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Leander, Georgetown, Pflugerville TexasIn Austin Texas the American South collides with the American West and the flat prairielands change abruptly into rolling hill country. Additionally, the assured rainfalls of the eastern plains change to parched, arid climates of the western range. These stark meterological and geological differences cleave Williamson and Travis Counties in half separating the fertile farmlands from the hardscrabble ranchlands. However, the springs, creeks and waterways weave it together to create an oasis in the sun belt! The economic engines that drove local growth and development since 1830 have transformed Austin into one of the most popular metropolitan areas in the United States. In chronological order: the cattle industry, local universities, railroads, the State Capital, Local and County Governments, Agriculture and "King Cotton", interstate highways, river dams and high technology have created one of the fastest growing areas in the country.* The combined forces of local business, no state income tax, low cost of living, affordable housing, a highly educated work force, high technology, manufacturing, capital city government and higher education have created economic stability that is somehow immune to negative, national social and economic trends. Significant development and growth is occurring to the North of Austin in the towns of Pflugerville, Round Rock, Georgetown, and Cedar Park/Leander Texas. The ever flowing Brushy Creek runs through the heart of this area (from West to East), enabling the growth of majestic and overhanging trees! These lush landscapes were the source for timber in the pioneer days. The creek banks are now lined with hike and bike trails and dotted with parks and play areas! The Avery Ranch golf course and the Brushy Creek Water Park take advantage of the Brushy Creek's Beauty. Brand new Baseball, Football and Soccer fields have sprung up along the northern bank in Cedar Park! All of our properties are located within this "Land of Good Water"** whose historical roots are centered around the Colorado River, San Gabriel River and Brushy Creek. Early pioneers in the 1800's encountered Indians, and hostile conditions but largely benefited from the pristine waters, rich soils, and ranch lands. Education, and worship were priorities of early settlers which laid the foundation for the present excellence in schools and churches! Real Estate development has been carefully planned and schools, both private and public, are superior. Housing is affordable, stable and appreciates about 3% - 8% per year depending on location. * "Road, River and Ol'Boy Politics" - Linda Scarbrough |
Brushy Creek In Downtown Round Rock "Memorial Park" |
Brushy Creek Alongside "Hairy Man Road" |
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Stage Coach Ruts Along Brushy Creek, This is the same ford that was used for cattle drives near the Round Rock. |
The "Round Rock" |
In the center of Brushy Creek, alongside Chisholm Trail lies the stone which gives Round Rock its name. A few hundred yards from the rock is Sam Bass road named after the nefarious outlaw who succumbed to wounds inflicted here in gunfights with local lawmen and Texas Rangers. Today, Round Rock is one of America's safest cities, one of the best cities for relocating families, one of 100 best communities for young people, one of the best places to live work and play (Austin Texas), and ranked #7 by money magazine as best places to live. One of the key instruments of growth and commerce is Interstate Highway 35, which connects Mexico to Canada. IH35 runs north and south, along a geological fault called the Balcones Escarpment which bisects Round Rock and Georgetown. The Balcones Escarpment fed the lower elevation prairies to the east with fertile clay soils which attracted buffaloes and Indians for centuries. Pioneer farmers progressed quickly from poverty to prosperity because of the fertility of the "Black Waxy" soil. The higher elevations, west of the fault, are largely limestone "ranch lands" and hill country of the Edwards Plateau. To the West of Round Rock is Cedar Park/Leander. Cedar Park/Leander is one of the top ten cities to raise a family. Cedar Park is located just to the North West of Austin and enjoys high appreciation rates due to its proximity to Lake Travis and short commute to Austin. Homes in the higher elevation hill country lands often have wonderful views! The schools in this area are exceptional. Just to the North of Round Rock is Georgetown. The porous limestone near the surface of the Balcones Fault is underlain by impervious rock creating over 200 natural springs within a seven mile radius of Georgetown. Inner Space Caverns, discovered during IH35 construction, is a dramatic example of the intricate underground springs, caves and aquifers found throughout this region. These springs created the fresh water so vital to the Indians and early settlers of this area. This same geology also created the Edwards Aquifer (a vast underground reservoir) that provides most of the area water supply and the famous Barton Creek, spring fed pool, of Austin. |
Historic Train Trestle Over Brushy Creek Cedar Park to Austin |
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San Gabriel River Georgetown |
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Barton Creek Pool Austin |
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"Bell" Steer The Dominant Steer that led the herds! |