Schleicher County, Texas

Schleicher County is classic West Texas, where the Edwards Plateau gradually gives way toward the Chihuahuan Desert. Eldorado serves as the county seat, a small community surrounded by wide-open land and expansive skies.

Ranching has long been the backbone of the local economy. Sheep and goats are a common sight across the countryside, often seeming more numerous than the people. The county was named after Gustav Schleicher, a German immigrant who became a Texas politician.

Oil and gas production have brought additional economic activity to the region, but Schleicher County has retained its rugged, open character. With little light pollution, the night skies are spectacular, making the area appealing to stargazers. Far from major cities and tourist crowds, its remote setting is a big part of its charm.

CategoryDetails
County NameSchleicher County
County SeatEldorado
PopulationApproximately 3,000
Cities, Towns, and CommunitiesEldorado, Schleicher, and Fort McKavett
Interstates and HighwaysU.S. Highway 277, U.S. Highway 87
FIPS Code48-413
Total Area (Land and Water)1,357 square miles (1,352 sq mi land, 5 sq mi water)
Adjacent Counties (and Direction)Tom Green County (North), Menard County (East), Sutton County (South), Crockett County (West), Irion County (Northwest), Kimble County (Southeast)
Time ZoneCentral Time Zone (CST)
StateTexas
Coordinates30°03’N, 100°36’W
EtymologyNamed after Gustav Schleicher, a German immigrant and Texas politician
Major LandmarksSchleicher County Courthouse, Fort McKavett State Historic Site
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