Leander is a city that is located in Travis and Williamson counties in Texas, United States. It is a suburb just north of Austin, and it is also a part of the Greater Austin metropolitan area. Leander is considered as the fourth fastest-growing city in Texas. In this article, we are going to know more about the history of Leander and the places you need to go there when you visit the area.

History of Leander, Texas

The City of Leander was initially named Bagdad, and it was established in July 1882. It was around 1945 when the first settlers arrived in the area after they received bounty land grants in exchange for their service in the Texas Revolution. They built log cabins that were recurrently attacked by Indians that also called the location their home. Because of these attacks, the Texas Rangers were asked to protect the settlers. That is why they built a structure that can house up to sixty men. And this building was one of the first structures of the Williamson County we know today.

In the 1850s, Bagdad was surveyed, and several businesses began to operate. One of the first stores to ever serve the public was a blacksmith shop, and the first post office in the town was opened in 1858. Even though the location is relatively isolated, it is abundant with timber and water, that is why it was able to attract several settlers. The abundance of water made farming a mainstay of the area and the settlers started growing their own food and making their own clothing.

Bagdad became a stop on the stage line from Austin to Lampasas, which enable the settlers to have goods from Austin delivered to them. By the 1870s, Bagdad had two blacksmith shops, a hotel, several general stores, churches, and a school.

By the 1880s, the railroad industry decided to expand in Texas, and they had plans to build tracks through Bagdad’s downtown area. That is why the area was surveyed, and the new town of Leander was founded in 1882. The post office was moved from Bagdad to Leander that year, and the first bank in the city was established. After this, lawyer’s offices, doctor’s offices, as well as a drug store opened in the community.
Because ranching and farming were increasing in the area, the population of Leander grew in the early 1890s. It was also during this time when the first public schools were opened. In 1978, the city of Leander was founded, and it continued to grow more rapidly. The people also established a new city hall and some new additions in the old downtown area.

From then on, the city of Leander thrived and flourished. Today, the city is home to the largest school district in Williamson County and one of the fastest-growing districts in Texas. It currently has twenty-six elementary schools, eight middle schools, and six high schools.

Places to Go and Things to See in Leander, Texas

• Go to Old Town Leander

  If you are in Leander and you’re looking for a place to shop, eat, and relax, then this place is the right one for you. Old Town Leander has breweries, shops, restaurants, and wineries. If you’re lucky, you might get to witness some special events such as Old Town Summer Nights, Old Town Street Festival, and Old Town Christmas Festival here in Old Town Leander.

• Get your dose of adrenaline rush at Lake Travis Zipline Adventures

  If you are looking for some exciting fun or just want to leisurely hike or bike around Lake Travis, this place is right for you. You can take a ride above the treetops and experience the longest zipline in Texas. While you’re up there, you will get to witness spectacular views and exciting thrills along the way.

• Visit different parks in Leander

  Leander has a total of ten parks that you can visit. You can golf at Crystal Falls Golf Course, take a dip at Robin Bledsoe Park and Pool, or just have fun at Benbrook Ranch Park and Disc Golf Course. There is always a bit of something for everyone to enjoy at Leander.

• Go bowling at Mel’s Lone Star Lanes

  If you want to have some bowling fun while you are in Leander, this is the perfect place to be. Mel’s Lone Star Lanes has over 40 bowling lanes, party room, arcade games, and a sports bar and grill. If you want to have some fun family time or just have a bowling game night with your friends while you’re in Leander, do not hesitate to check this place out.