Back in 1851, the first rumblings of a city began to emerge on the banks of Brushy Creek. In the middle of the creek, there was a round rock that marked a low point in the water perfect for crossing. This round rock was so pivotal to Native Americans and settlers that it was forever immortalized as the name of the town. These days, you can visit the original Round Rock and its nearby historical marker to pay homage to the city’s unique history.
Stroll through the decades with a leisurely historic walking tour! Explore our stunning limestone architecture and discover the stories behind our landmarks and significant locations. You’ll be transported to another decade and experience Round Rock like never before.

History

Downtown Historic District

The Round Rock Historic Commercial District was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1983. The district consists […]

Historic Architecture

Go back in time by exploring historic architecture in Round Rock. Most buildings in the downtown were built between 1876 […]

Historic Round Rock

The Historic Round Rock Collection is the product of the Historic Preservation Commission’s Historic Round Rock Project.

Historical Markers

New historic building information placards have been installed on the 24 buildings in downtown’s Commercial Historic District.

Local History Resources

The Historic Preservation Commission is primarily occupied with matters relating to the preservation of sites and buildings.

The Chisholm Trail

Part of the history and lore of Round Rock involves the Chisholm Trail. This popular trading trail was often used […]

The Story of New Town

The Historic Round Rock Collection is a project documenting Round Rock’s history, funded in part with a grant from the Texas […]

The Story of Old Town

The Historic Round Rock Collection is a project documenting Round Rock’s history, funded in part with a grant from the Texas […]

The Story of Sam Bass

Here is the story of Sam Bass, also known as “Texas’ Beloved Bandit” or “Robin Hood on a Fast Horse” […]