Shackelford County, Texas
Shackelford County is classic Texas ranch country. It sits in north-central Texas, where the Cross Timbers gradually give way to the wide-open Rolling Plains. It’s a place built on cattle, history, and plenty of open sky.
Albany serves as the county seat and is home to the renowned Old Jail Art Center, a remarkable museum you wouldn’t expect to find in a small ranching town. Named after Texas Revolution veteran Dr. Jack Shackelford, the county has long been shaped by ranching, with oil adding another layer to its economy.
The scenery blends rugged hills with sprawling grasslands that seem to stretch forever. Fort Griffin State Historic Site offers a glimpse into Texas’ frontier days, while hunting season brings visitors every fall. Life here isn’t always easy, but the people of Shackelford County have the resilience and grit to match the land they call home.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Shackelford County |
| County Seat | Albany |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Albany, Moran, and Saba |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Highway 180, State Highway 6 |
| Etymology | Named after Dr. Jack Shackelford, a veteran of the Texas Revolution |
| FIPS Code | 48-417 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 916 square miles (915 sq mi land, 1 sq mi water) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CT) |
| Texas | Missouri |
| Coordinates | 32°45’N, 99°16’W |
| Major Landmarks | Lake Albany, Shackelford County Courthouse |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Throckmorton County (North), Stephens County (East), Eastland County (Southeast), Callahan County (South), Jones County (West), Haskell County (Northwest), Taylor County (Southwest) |
| Population | Approximately 3,500 |
