Postcard History Series: Austin

As the capital of Texas, Austin has a long and colorful history. The first residents were nomadic Native Americans who camped here as long ago as 9000 BC because of the area's beauty, the clear Colorado River, and the wildlife. These are the very same things that attract people to Austin today. Originally called Waterloo, Austin has grown from a tiny town on the edge of the western frontier in 1839 into the capital city it is today. The University of Texas lent prestige, the state government erected buildings, the railroads came to town, and Congress Avenue--the "main street" of Texas--filled with thriving businesses.

Author Don Martin, an avid postcard collector, selected cards that depict Austin buildings and life from the 1890s to 1950. He has a driving curiosity that has led to a variety of historical collections, including Republic of Texas memorabilia, Texas maps prior to Texas statehood, and of course Austin postcards.