Support Us Button Widget

The history of the Round Rock

How many rocks would a Round Rock rock if a Round Rock could round rocks?

A photo of a round, flat rock surrounded by the creek.

No, the name isn’t just a coincidence.

Photo by @john.h.gamez

Ah, Round Rock. This northern city, flanked by Cedar Park and Pflugerville, is home to 123,876 residents, making it Austin’s most populous suburb.

And it was named after a round rock in a creek. No, we’re not joking.

The community was founded in 1851 as a settlement along Brushy Creek, marked by a round-ish, table-shaped stone at an integral low-water crossing for travelers. Although the town was originally named after the creek, it would be renamed to “Round Rock” in 1854 in the rock’s honor.

According to the Texas Historical Commission, wagon wheel tracks are still visible at the bottom of creek.

You can see the very same rock today at Chisholm Trail Street in the middle of Brushy Creek. Many of the post-Civil War era buildings, including the city’s first post office and Owen House — a.k.a. the Saint Charles Hotel — still stand in the city’s historic old town.

More from ATXtoday
The home services company helps single mothers, veterans, and older Austinites with yard work that would otherwise be difficult to undertake alone.
The “somewhere on Google Maps” trend is running rampant on social platforms — let’s try it out in the Capital City.
We’re highlighting the best kid-friendly activities that Austin has to offer, complete with art classes, animal encounters, and outdoor fun.
We spent 2024 doing what we do best — chatting with Austinites who are making our fair city a better place.
Sip your way through the Capital City at these 15 local breweries.
Tell us what local knowledge you want to gain in 2025, and we’ll investigate until we find your answer.
The 3D-printing construction company partnered with Camp Mabry to bring fresh buildings to the home of the Texas National Guard and the Texas State Guard.
Treat Santa (or your loved ones) to some gourmet goodies from local bakeries this year — they’re a present all their own.
Historical markers are physical signs, plaques, and statues that commemorate a significant place or event. Where would you like to see a historical marker around Austin?
The Mermaid Capital of Texas, home to Texas State University, and riverside town is a great place to take a day trip — we’ve got all the spots to hit when you visit.