The One Small Town In Texas With More Historic Buildings Than Any Other
By Katie Lawrence|Published September 21, 2022
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
Texas is brimming with rich history, and our small towns are the best places to experience it. One of the most historic small towns in Texas is San Augustine, nestled in the dense forestland of the Piney Woods. Dating to the early 1700s, this tiny town features many original buildings in remarkably good condition. Not much has changed here over the centuries, so if you’re looking to slow down and step back in time, we can’t imagine a better destination.
The county seat of San Augustine County, San Augustine is a quaint little town nestled deep in the Piney Woods region of East Texas.
With a population of just under 2,000, San Augustine was first settled by Spanish missionaries in the early 1700s. The town itself was founded in 1832.
As you stroll through the streets of downtown, almost every building you'll see has a rich and fascinating history. From old banks to the original county courthouse, this little town is full of character.
Easily the oldest building in San Augustine is Mission Nuestra Señora de los Dolores de los Ais, the first European settlement in town. Reestablished in 1721 after being abandoned several years earlier, the mission lasted until 1773 and is now preserved as Mission Dolores State Historic Site.
You'll also see an old drugstore that has been in continuous operation for over 100 years. Right next to it is the building that used to house the Heart of Texas Grill, which is now closed.
Many other buildings in San Augustine's historic downtown district are abandoned, including Imogene's Cafe & Homemade Baked Goods. This once-bustling restaurant and bakery is a shell of its former self, housing only memories of the laughter and good times that took place there.
Other buildings have changed hands many times over the years, but still maintain their original integrity. If only we had a "then and now" photo to see what this architectural marvel used to be!
Churches, bed and breakfasts/hotels, and historic homes add to the lineup of old buildings you'll see in San Augustine. They all have fascinating stories to tell - if you're willing to listen.
Have you ever visited San Augustine? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience in the comments section! Don’t forget to check out our previous article for a rural road trip that leads right through San Augustine.
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