Altair, Texas facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Altair, Texas
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 Altair, Texas
Location in Texas
Altair, Texas
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | Texas |
| County | Colorado |
| Elevation | 204 ft (62 m) |
| Time zone | UTC-6 (Central (CST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-5 (CDT) |
| ZIP code |
77412
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| Area code(s) | 979 |
Altair is a small, unincorporated community in Colorado County, Texas, United States. It's not an official city, but a group of homes and businesses. You can find it where two main roads meet: U.S. Route 90 Alternate and Texas State Highway 71. In 2000, about 30 people lived there.
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A Look Back: Altair's History
This community started in the late 1880s. In 1888, it got its own post office. The area was first called Stafford's Ranch. This name honored a well-known local rancher.
However, in 1890, the people decided to change the name. There was already another town called Stafford with a post office. So, they chose "Altair," which is the name of a bright star.
In the same year, Altair got a new connection. A branch of the Texas and New Orleans Railroad began serving the community. This helped connect Altair to other places. Sometimes, people mistakenly call Stafford's Ranch "Spafford's Ranch."
In the 1960s, about 200 people lived in Altair. The population was estimated to be around 80 between 1974 and 1986. By 1986, Altair had a few shops and places to dry rice. In 1990 and 2000, the population was about 30 people.
Altair still has its own post office. Its special mail code, called a ZIP code, is 77412. A part of the Union Pacific Railroad also crosses the Colorado River in Altair.
Where is Altair?
Altair is located in the southern part of Colorado County. It sits along U.S. Highway 90A and Texas State Highway 71. It's about 9 miles (14 km) south of Columbus.
It's also about 28 miles (45 km) north of El Campo. And it's roughly 30 miles (48 km) east of Hallettsville.
Learning in Altair: Education
Kids in Altair go to public schools managed by the Rice Consolidated Independent School District. This school district covers the southern part of Colorado County. Its main office is right in Altair.
The district is home to the Rice High School. Their sports teams are known as the Raiders. After high school, students from this district can attend Wharton County Junior College.
Famous Faces from Altair
Even small communities can have famous people!
- Ryan Trahan is a well-known YouTube star.
- Roger Gradney, a student at Rice High School, is set to play for the 2024 Nebraska Cornhuskers football team.
Pictures of Altair
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Beyond the Altair sign on US 90A is the Highway 71 junction and the rice dryer, Kallina Dryer Inc. The view is east.
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The rice dryer, Kallina Dryer Inc., is a prominent landmark in Altair.
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Rice CISD Junior High School is located on US 90A between Altair and Rock Island.
