Texas Real Estate & Relocation Guide

Marlin, Texas

Population: 6,386

Located in Falls County

Truly located in the heart of central Texas, Marlin lies at the intersection of state highways 6 & 7. Its central location allows easy access to IH 35 as well. In 1892 well drillers struck a stream of hot (very hot!) mineral water. In 1895 the benefits of the healing waters were discovered and the first bath house spa was built, which was followed by other spas, clinics, and doctors. Marlin soon became a Mecca for those suffering from a long list of illness and disease.

With the event of modern drugs, Marlin's spas and clinics faded in popularity. In the 1980's the Falls Community Hospital became the prototype to use the mineral water in a way for geothermal heating. Today Marlin remains the county seat and economic center of Falls County. It is home to several industries and the Thomas T. Connally Veterans Administration Medical Center.

In 1994 Marlin was chosen to participate in the Main Street Program by the Texas Historical Commission. Marlin's rich history is evident in the number of historical homes that remain in the area, including the Highlands Mansion. Downtown offers antiques, art & crafts, clothing, and history including the Falls County Museum. The Palace Theater is managed by an active theater association and offers plays and special events year round.

Marlin is also a great vacation area with excellent fishing and gold. Two miles west of city, Falls on the Brazos Park offers fishing, canoeing, swimming and camping. Any Marlin caught while fishing must be put back in the water though!

Housing is more than reasonable, especially in an area as desirable as this! Brand new construction is going up, but most of the homes in this city are built on large lots, some of them over 2 acres in size. Many of these homes allow for horses too! A large 3,000 square foot home starts at $184,000. There are however many different homes and condos, townhomes, apartments and garden homes to choose from and prices that start in the low $50?s.

The weather here is as close to perfect as weather can be without emigrating to Aruba! Hot, summers give way to a mild, warm fall, which in turn move to pleasant winters, where you may experience an isolated ice storm once every ten years or so. Winter lasts only a few weeks before the balmy days turn into a definite spring.

Spring brings the famed Bluebonnets, and it is quite common to see groups of families suddenly halt, rush out of their vehicles and strike poses in the middle of a field full of these famous wild flowers. It is no wonder the Bluebonnet is the state flower. It is both prolific and beautiful, and make a striking background for photos.

Marlin is home to Marlin Festival Days, an annual 3-day festival in the park. The festival is always the first weekend in May and draws people from the entire central Texas area. Marlin is an area that is growing, and wants to welcome new residents with open arms.