City of Watauga, TX

Watauga is a city in Tarrant County, Texas, United States, and a inner suburb of Fort Worth. The population was 23,497 at the 2010 census. The cities' businesses and retail market is generally located on Highway 377. The Cherokee Indians were the first settlers in Watauga. Watauga comes from the Cherokee word whose meaning has been lost, but has been variously interpreted as "Village of Many Springs," "River of Plenty," and "Beautiful Water." They were in search of bountiful game, fertile fields, and clear spring waters. Around 1843, hardy settlers from Tennessee first arrived in the village. Among some of the first settlers were: W.A., Margaret and James Walker, Jane Weir, Willie Potts, William Samual, Martha and Nancy Evans, William, Julia and Mary Carlton, Syrena Stowel, and Sarah Henderson. On December 14, 1867, Willow Springs Presbyterian Church was the first church organized in Watauga. In 1972, a state historical marker was presented to designate the Church's historical recognition for over one hundred years of service. In 1876, the railroad came to Texas, linking the two coasts for transporting people and cattle to the Fort Worth area. However, in 1930, the Watauga Depot was moved to Hodge, causing growth to come to a standstill. At this time, Watauga's population was 50. Thirty-four years later, in 1964, the population was 300. However, Watauga grew rapidly in the late 70's and early 1980's, and currently has a population of 23,560. Tarrant Utility Company deeded Lot 9, Block 1 (5633 Linda Drive) in April 1958, to the City for constructing a fire station and City Hall. The first City Hall and fire station cost $1,200 in materials and was built entirely by volunteers. On December 6, 1958, a chili pie supper was held to raise funds for a volunteer fire department, and the first volunteer fire department was organized on June 10, 1959. Eleven mayors have served the City. There are John Ransburger, Farris Jones, John Smith, Mack N. Burke, Jr., Mildred Morris, Noel Meadows, Mrs. Noel Meadows, Virgil R. Anthony, Sr., Anthony W. Girtman, Henry J. Jeffries. Hector F. Garcia is presently serving for a second time. Watauga was incorporated on September 24, 1958.