At over 267,000 square miles in size, Texas is an all-American state where the residents are patriotic, friendly and successful and the Texan economy leads the nation in productivity as the country’s foremost supplier of oil, beef and cotton. Texas has excellent overall cost of living with affordable housing prices ranking 20% below the nations average.
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In 1821, Mexico, which included Texas, freed themselves from Spain. Generous land grants were given to anyone wishing to colonize the new land. That year, Stephen F. Austin led 300 American families to new Texas homes. Within 15 years Texas Americans outnumbered Texas Mexicans almost four to one.
The Texas Revolution, beginning in 1835, created the Republic of Texas at it conclusion. Sam Houston was President of the Republic then continued on as Senator, then Governor, after the state was annexed. In 1861, Texas seceded due to the Civil War, but rejoined the Union in 1870.
The Spindletop oil field, near Beaumont, blew its first well in 1901. Since then oil related businesses have kept the economy afloat. However, during the 1980s oil embargoes, the economy nearly collapsed, but gained a valuable lesson in diversification. Now, trade, transportation, public utilities and finance have gained footholds and brought the economy back to its pre-embargo levels.
The statewide sales tax is 6.25 percent. Cities and/or counties may impose additional rates of up to 2 percent. Counties may impose lodgings taxes of up to 7 percent.
The Gulf Coast and many inland lakes provide locals and tourists with wide varieties of boating, fishing and swimming opportunities. Lakes range in size from ponds to the 182,000 acre Toledo Bend Reservoir, and every size in between. State Parks preserve a variety natural, historic and recreational sites. Campgrounds are generally open year round charging small admission fees with additional user fees for facilities.
