Belton, Texas

Belton is a small town of distinctive charm. It was founded in 1850, and in its early years, grew as a rustic trading center for nearby farms and ranches. The first merchant sold goods from his wagon before any stores were built; the first "saloon" was a barrel of whiskey and a tin cup under a shade tree. A stagecoach line served the village, and cowboys herding Longhorns up to the Chisholm Trail enjoyed rest stops in Belton. The town is graced by architecture from the early 1860s to turn-of-the-20th-century buildings. Preservation of these historic structures is a current priority in Belton's graceful old downtown area. Some of the buildings and homes were opened during the annual tour in late April, early May.

Belton is home to the annual 4th of July Celebration and PRCA Rodeo, now celebrating its 80th anniversary. This week-long event includes a parade, festival, carnival, fiddlers' contest, barbecue and more.

Belton lies on the I-35 corridor, and U.S. 190, a segment of the Ports to Plains Highway connecting the state's heartland to coastal ports.