County Seat History

Georgetown Was Named for a Land Donor, Not the President

Georgetown, the Williamson County seat, was founded in 1848 and named for George Washington Glasscock, who donated land for the townsite.

Williamson County History & Culture

Georgetown was established in 1848 as the county seat of Williamson County. The name comes from George Washington Glasscock, who donated the land for the site along with his business partner Thomas B. Huling. The town is about 25 miles north of Austin on Interstate 35.

Two major events shaped Georgetown's growth in the 1800s. Southwestern University opened in 1873. A railroad reached town in 1878. Cattle drives through Georgetown connected to the Chisholm, Western, Dodge City, and Shawnee Trails, making it an important stop in the cattle trade era.

Source to confirm: TSHA — Georgetown, TX (Williamson County)

More Williamson County notes

Property Tax Basics

Two Offices Handle Your Property Tax in Williamson County

The appraisal district sets your property's value; the tax office collects the money — and they are separate offices.

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Homestead Exemption

Texas Homestead Exemption Cuts Your School Tax Bill

Williamson County homeowners who live in their home can apply for a $140,000 reduction off the value used to figure school taxes.

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Age 65 / Disability Exemption

Extra Property Tax Breaks for Seniors and Disabled Homeowners

Homeowners who are 65 or older, or who have a qualifying disability, can get an additional property tax exemption and a school tax freeze.

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Disabled Veteran Exemption

Veterans with Service Disabilities Get a Property Tax Break

Texas veterans with a service-connected disability rating of 10% or more qualify for a property tax exemption in Williamson County.

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