Spicewood

Spicewood, Texas

  
Spicewood,Texas

Spicewood was established in the late 1800s, although many residents claim direct lineage from settlers in the early 1800′s, many land deeds originating from “script” issued by the Republic of Texas and derived from Spanish Land Grants. The name possibly came from the Spicewood (Sassafras) timber that grew along nearby Little Cypress Creek.A post office opened in 1899 with James B. Pangle as its postmaster. The Spicewood post office itself moved (2000) from its original location in Spicewood, one mile south to Hollingsworth Corner, and now serves a 100 sq. mi. area in three counties, Burnet, Blanco, and Travis, leading many served to incorrectly believe they actually “live in” old Spicewood-proper. As surrounding communities began to decline (early 20th century), many of their residents turned to Spicewood as the focus of local community life. A Baptist Church was organized in 1908. In 1919, Spicewood replaced Rockvale as the official name of the local school district. The population was approximately 100 during the mid-1920s and rose to 125 by 1933. Local businesses prospered when Farm Road 93 (present-day State Highway 71) was built through the area during the 1940s. In 1949, the school in nearby Haynie Flat consolidated with Spicewood’s school district. Three years later, Spicewood became part of the Marble Falls Independent School District. The population, which stood at around 100 in the 1970s, had grown to an estimated 2,000 by 2000.  The recent 2010 census shows the population in the 78669 Spicewood zip code has risen to 8613.  This shows a distinct migration of the population from the city to the more rural areas.  Even with the current gas prices—people are opting for the “open air” of the Spicewood area.

More and more homes and businesses seem to be springing up along the Hiway 71 corridor between Bee Cave and Hollingsworth Corner.  The lower lease prices and lower purchase prices in the area make it an attractive choice for entrepreneuers wanting to open a new business or make their new home in a less conjested area.   The  Hiway 71  construction between Bee Creek Road and Haystack Cove will be completed soon and will definitely make the drive much easier.

When driving through Spicewood on Highway 71, you may want to time your lunch stop so you can try Opie’s BBQ.  The ‘Texas Monthly’ rated Opie’s as a 4.25 on a 5 point scale.  To quote the magazine — “The Prime Rib at Opie’s is so tender, you almost feel sorry for it.”  To find Opie’s — if you’;re coming from the Austin area, it’s located on the North side of Hiway 71 about 7 miles past the Perdernales River.   From the West off Hiway 281 it’s about 10 miles.

Opie's Brisket and Ribs

For more information about Spicewood, contact:

Anita Dismuke

Anita@AvalarAustin.com

830-637-9129