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Alto, Texas facts for kids

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Alto, Texas
Country United States
State Texas
County Cherokee
Government
 • Type Mayor-Council
Area
 • Total 1.71 sq mi (4.42 km2)
 • Land 1.71 sq mi (4.42 km2)
 • Water 0.00 sq mi (0.00 km2)
Elevation
433 ft (132 m)
Population
 (2020)
 • Total 1,027
 • Density 727.27/sq mi (280.83/km2)
Time zone UTC-6 (Central (CST))
 • Summer (DST) UTC-5 (CDT)
ZIP code
75925
Area code(s) 936
FIPS code 48-02188
GNIS feature ID 2412356

Alto is a small town located in Cherokee County, Texas, United States. In 2020, about 1,027 people lived there. Alto is special because it's very close to the Caddo Mounds State Historic Site. This site is an old archaeological area that dates back to 800 BC. It shows where an ancient village and important ceremonial place once stood.

History of Alto, Texas

Early Settlers and Forts

One of the first people to settle in this area was Martin Lacy. Around 1838, he built Lacy's Fort just west of where Alto is today. This fort was important during a time of conflict. In 1838 and 1839, it served as a base for soldiers. These soldiers were led by Maj. Gen. Thomas J. Rusk and were working to stop the Córdova Rebellion.

Founding and Naming the Town

The town of Alto was officially started in 1849. Its name comes from the Spanish word "alto," which means "high." This name was chosen because of the town's high location. Alto sits on a drainage divide, which is a ridge of land that separates two river systems. In this case, it's between the Neches and Angelina Rivers.

Geography and Climate

Caddo Mound Site TX
Caddo Mound Site near Alto, January 2012

Location and Land Area

Alto is located in East Texas. According to the United States Census Bureau, the town covers a total area of about 1.7 square miles (4.4 square kilometers). All of this area is land, with no major bodies of water inside the town limits.

World War II Camp

During World War II, Alto was home to a camp for prisoners of war. This camp served the wider Cherokee County area.

Weather in Alto

The weather in Alto is known for its hot and humid summers. Winters are generally mild to cool. This type of weather is called a humid subtropical climate. On climate maps, you might see it labeled as "Cfa."

Education in Alto

Public Schools

The public schools in Alto are managed by the Alto Independent School District. Students in Alto attend one of three schools:

  • Alto High School
  • Alto Middle School
  • Alto Elementary School

Notable People from Alto

Alto has been home to some important people.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Alto (Texas) para niños

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