Fayette
The County Namesake That Vanished
State: Texas
County: Fayette County
Founded: 1820s
Abandoned: 1880s
Peak Population: 500
Fayette was an important town during the Texas Republic. The county was named for it. But when the railroad went to La Grange, Fayette's reason to exist vanished. The county kept the name; the town disappeared.
Texas Republic Era
During Texas's early years, Fayette was significant enough to give a county its name. Settlers, merchants, and farmers built a community.
Railroad Bypass
When railroads determined which Texas towns would survive, La Grange got the tracks. Fayette did not.
Timeline
- 1820s - Founded Settlement established
- 1838 - County Named Fayette County created
- 1880s - Abandoned Railroad bypassed town
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Year-round
Difficulty: Easy
Time Needed: 30 minutes
Quick Facts
- County named for town that no longer exists
- La Grange became county seat
- Little remains
Location
Address: Near La Grange, Texas
Coordinates: 29.9333, -96.8667