History

Watermelon Fields Aplenty

The region’s fertile land and wide-open acreage make it an ideal area for watermelons. Hempstead eventually became known as the watermelon capital of the United States, and was the nation’s largest watermelon shipper until the 1940s.

The Town Earns a Nickname

In Texas’ early Wild West days, many folks in Hempstead took the law into their own hands. The prevalent six-shooter pistols many people wore led to the nickname “Six Shooter Junction”.

The Literal Lay of the Land

The Hempstead Town Company officially got its start with Dr. Richard Rodgers Peebles and James W. McDade. Its goal? To sell lots of land in the newly established community.

The Railway Makes its Way to Town

The Houston and Texas Central Railway’s expansion into town transforms Hempstead into something of a regional distribution hub.

Hempstead Becomes Official

The town was incorporated (for the first time, at least). More on that to come.

A Civil War-Era Stalwart

Hempstead’s proximity to trustworthy transportation makes it a go-to spot for military personnel. The town housed a military hospital and served as a hub for manufacturing efforts and supplies. Area camps included Camp Carter, Camp Hebert and Major General George A. Custer’s Camp Groce.

From Town to City

Hempstead is incorporated once more, this time as the City of Hempstead — complete with a mayor and group of aldermen.

Status as County Seat

Hempstead’s continued growth in areas such as transportation, cotton production and textile manufacturing helps secure the town recognition as Waller county seat.

Agriculture on the Rise

The town’s agricultural efforts continue paying off in big ways. In fact, its cottonseed oil mill’s increasing value makes it the second highest in Texas.

Education Goes Public

The first public school opens in Hempstead. Previously, coursework was taught out of homes, inside the old jail and through a freedmen’s school which operated from 1866 – 1870.

From City to … ?

With a vote of 268 to 43, Hempstead votes to end its incorporation. The measure held through the town’s 1928, 1930 and 1933 election cycles.

A City Once More

Community members vote to officially reincorporate the City of Hempstead, a measure that remains unchanged to this day.

The Watermelon Festival Makes its Arrival

Hempstead pays homage to his farming past with a festival complete with live music, vendors, juicy watermelon and more. The tradition continues today.

Opportunity Takes Root in Hempstead

The Hempstead Commerce & Civic Association makes its official debut, organizing as a way to support local businesses, foster growth and spread word about all the region offers.