Eastland County, Texas
Eastland County is located in central Texas, roughly halfway between Fort Worth and Abilene. The county is home to several small communities, with Eastland serving as the largest and the county seat. Interstate 20 runs through the area, bringing travelers and supporting local businesses along the way.
One of Eastland County’s most unusual stories is the legend of Old Rip, a horned toad said to have survived inside the cornerstone of the county courthouse for 31 years. The quirky tale has become part of the county’s identity, and a statue commemorating Old Rip can be found in Eastland.
The county has experienced several periods of oil development, leaving a lasting mark on the local economy and communities. Today, Eastland County maintains a quieter pace of life, with Lake Leon providing opportunities for fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Eastland County |
| County Seat | Eastland |
| Population | Approximately 18,000 |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Eastland, Cisco, Ranger, Gorman, Carbon |
| Interstates and Highways | Interstate 20, U.S. Highway 183, State Highway 6 |
| FIPS Code | 48-133 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 932 square miles (926 sq mi land, 6 sq mi water) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Stephens County (North), Palo Pinto County (Northeast), Erath County (East), Comanche County (Southeast), Brown County (South), Callahan County (West), Shackelford County (Northwest) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CST) |
| State | Texas |
| Coordinates | 32°24’N, 98°50’W |
| Etymology | Named after William M. Eastland, a soldier during the Texas Revolution |
| Major Landmarks | Eastland County Courthouse, Eastland Outdoor Theatre, Old Rip Statue |
