Indigenous History

The Tonkawa People Lived Along the San Gabriel Before Anglo Settlement

Tonkawa people had a village near what is now Georgetown before Anglo settlers arrived in the 1830s and 1840s.

Before Anglo settlers came, the Tonkawa people had a village along the San Gabriel River. It was near where Georgetown stands today. Early settlers wrote that the land's water, timber, and rich soil had drawn people to this area long before they arrived.

Anglo settlement began during the Texas Revolution and the early days of the Republic of Texas. Kenney's Fort was built in 1838. The first settlers who came in large numbers were from Tennessee, Kentucky, North Carolina, Arkansas, and Illinois. Williamson County was officially created in 1848.

Source to confirm: TSHA — 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.

Read note ->

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.

Read note ->

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.

Read note ->

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.

Read note ->