As many Austin, Texas natives know, their city comes with a rich history that is full of interesting facts. Austin is the 11th biggest city in the United States, and with over two million residents, it’s also a melting pot of cultures with a diverse population.
5 Historical Facts about Austin, TX
If you are planning on moving to the state’s capital city or simply want to visit and enjoy its may delight, there are plenty of fun things to learn that can enhance your experience, including these intriguing facts.
Austin’s Moontowers Have Been Operating Since the 19th Century
Moontowers were popular in the 19th century in both the United States and Europe and were designed to light up certain areas of town, much like a street light. At 165 feet tall with a 15 moot base, the moontowers in Austin are the last ones in the world to remain standing.
While there are only six still in their original spots, these moontowers were recognized as Texas State Landmarks in 1970, protecting them from being removed and destroyed. There are 14 in total that is still landing and illuminated each night.
Many Notable Films Were Made in Austin
Movie buffs from around the world enjoy visiting Austin for the familiar scenery, as this city is the location for several popular films throughout the years. Movies such as “What’s Eating Gilbert Grape,” along with “Dazed and Confused,” “Office Space,” and more recently, “Boyhood,” are just some of many beloved movies that were brought to life by Texas’ capital.
Austin Has North America’s Largest Urban Bat Colony
If you are moving to town and starting to search through the many Austin houses for sale, hopefully, the thought of having a huge colony of bats in the city won’t bother you – and for most, it’s a remarkable event to watch.
During the warmer months of the year, over 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats make their way to Austin, using the city as their spring and summer refuge. Each evening, the bats fly off together from under the Congress Avenue Bridge, a spectacle and mini-tourist attraction that visitors and locals alike come to watch.
Austin’s Paramount Theater Has Had Many Exciting Performers
If you are into theatrical performances and shows, the Paramount Theater in Austin has been entertaining audiences since it opened in 1915. Some of the most popular performers to take the stage include Katherine Hepburn and the famous magician, Houdini.
These days, Austinites enjoy escaping the summer heat each year and enjoying viewing old classics like Casablanca, shown in the theater. The Paramount also hosts various film festivals like the Austin Film Festival and Moontower Comedy Festival.
Austin Used to Have a Different Name
Before being renamed “Austin,” after the “Father of Texas,” and American empresario, Stephen Austin, Texas’ capital was once called Waterloo. Plus, before Austin became the official state capital of Texas, there were six temporary capital cities.
