Rio Vista in Johnson County, Texas — The American South (West South Central)
Rio Vista
Located in an area of Johnson County's earliest settlement, Rio Vista was founded on the railroad in 1885. The townsite, which affords views of both Nolan River and Mustang Creek, was given the Spanish name for "River View". The post office that was established in Rio Vista in 1885 was discontinued in 1889, but was reinstated in 1890.
By 1896, the community boasted 175 residents, eight stores, a lumber yard, steam gin, and a steam corn sheller. Rio Vista's public school system also began that year. Telephone lines were installed during the early years of the 20th century, when three passenger trains were arriving daily at the depot.
The thriving economy was shattered, however, by a fire in 1914 that destroyed 24 buildings. Many of the businesses were hurt, and the rebuilding process was slow. Cotton sustained the economy during that time, and dairy farming later became important.
Just as the coming of the railroad had initiated growth in Rio Vista during the 1880s, the building of State Highway 174 through town in the 1950s brought a boost to the economy. From its beginnings as a railroad community, Rio Vista has been an important part of Johnson County history.
Erected 1985 by Texas Historical Commission. (Marker Number 4273.)
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Railroads & Streetcars • Settlements & Settlers.
Location. 32° 13.97′ N, 97° 22.628′ W. Marker is in Rio Vista, Texas, in Johnson County. Marker is on Depot Street east of Pavilion Street, on the right when traveling east. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Rio Vista TX 76093, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 7 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. Menefee Reunion (approx. 0.2 miles away); Henry Briden Cabin (approx. 0.2 miles away); Early Cattle Trade (approx. ¼ mile away); Grange Hall Cemetery (approx. 1.3 miles away); Phillip Nolan (approx. 3.8 miles away); Guy Bailey (approx. 6.4 miles away); Blum Cemetery (approx. 6.7 miles away); Johnson County Sheriff's Posse (approx. 7 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Rio Vista.
Credits. This page was last revised on September 1, 2021. It was originally submitted on August 24, 2021, by QuesterMark of Fort Worth, Texas. This page has been viewed 198 times since then and 59 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on August 24, 2021, by QuesterMark of Fort Worth, Texas. • J. Makali Bruton was the editor who published this page.