Round Rock History Series: Old Town
Old Town Round Rock
The buildings in Old Town on Chisholm Trail Road hold many stories about the establishment of Round Rock. In the mid-1800s, Round Rock emerged as a pivotal point along the Chisholm Trail, a major cattle-driving route stretching from South Texas to Kansas.
The trail crossed Brushy Creek near a distinctive round rock, which became a landmark for travelers and gave our town its name.
Image courtesy of City of Round Rock
The Oatts House
In the early 1850s, Round Rock, then known as Brushy Creek, sought to establish its own post office. Thomas C. Oatts, a local merchant, constructed a one-story stone building between 1851 and 1853, which served as both his mercantile store and the town’s first permanent post office. Oatts became the first postmaster in 1851, and on August 24, 1854, he submitted the name “Round Rock” to postal officials, officially renaming the town. This building, located at the corner of Chisholm Trail Road and Emmanuel Street, played a crucial role in the community’s communication and commerce.
The Oatts House
The Owen House
Adjacent to the Oatts Building stands the Owen House, a two-story structure built around 1870. This residence was home to Dr. William M. Owen, a prominent local physician and businessman, his wife Sarah, and their seven children. The house exemplifies the architectural style of the period and reflects the lifestyle of a well-established family in post-Civil War Texas.
During its history, the Owen House briefly operated as the St. Charles Hotel. This transition highlights the building’s adaptability to the evolving needs of Round Rock’s growing community. Beyond providing lodging, the St. Charles Hotel served as a social and commercial hub for Round Rock. Its proximity to the Chisholm Trail made it a convenient stop for cattle drivers and travelers seeking rest and supplies. The hotel’s presence contributed to the economic growth of Round Rock, attracting other businesses and fostering a vibrant community atmosphere.
The significance of the Owen House and the original post office has been recognized through historical markers and inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places. These designations underscore their importance in illustrating the architectural and historical narrative of Round Rock. Today, the Owen House Complex stands as a testament to the town’s rich heritage, reflecting the town’s evolution from a modest settlement to a bustling hub along the Chisholm Trail, preserving the legacy of its early inhabitants and their contributions to the region’s development.
Guest author: Amy Petrovick, Round Rock Preservation
This Round the Rock series is brought to you by the Round Rock Preservation organization.
Round Rock Preservation is an IRS 501c3 Nonprofit Charity established for charitable & educational purposes. (EIN: 81-2339800).
The mission of Round Rock Preservation is to fulfill the need for a city-wide community advocacy program related to protecting, preserving, and supporting historic preservation within the City of Round Rock. Lectures and presentations are available.
For more info, contact Frank Darr, Vice President, at fdarr@austin.rr.com.
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