Alto, Texas facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
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.
Contents
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
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.
- James Z. Spearing: He was born in Alto in 1864. He later became a member of the United States House of Representatives for Louisiana from 1924 to 1931. A Representative is a person who is elected to speak for their area in the U.S. government.
- George B. Terrell: He was also a member of the United States House of Representatives. He represented Texas from 1924 to 1931.
See also
In Spanish: Alto (Texas) para niños
