Local History

Fort Ringgold protected Rio Grande City for nearly 100 years

Fort Ringgold, established in 1848 right next to Rio Grande City, anchored the border town's growth and later became part of the local school district.

Starr County History & Culture

The U.S. Army established Fort Ringgold in 1848, the same year Starr County was organized. The fort was built to protect settlers and the new international border along the Rio Grande. Its presence helped Rio Grande City grow into a trade and ranching hub during the 1800s.

The army closed Fort Ringgold in 1944. The county school district then acquired much of the land and several of the old buildings. The fort's historic structures are part of Rio Grande City's identity today. The Handbook of Texas documents the full history of the fort and the town.

Source to confirm: Handbook of Texas Online — Rio Grande City

More Starr County notes

Property Tax

Who handles property taxes in Starr County

Two separate offices handle property taxes here — one sets your value, the other collects the bill.

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Homestead Exemption

How the homestead exemption works in Starr County

If your home here is your main residence, a Texas homestead exemption can lower the taxable value — and Starr County has boosted its local exemption for seniors and disabled residents.

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Agricultural Valuation

Ag valuation can cut your property tax bill on rural land

Farm and ranch land in Starr County can be taxed on what it produces, not what it would sell for — and that can mean a much lower tax bill.

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Mineral Rights / Oil & Gas

Oil and gas have shaped Starr County for nearly a century

Starr County has a long oil and gas history, so mineral rights questions often come up when buying land here.

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