Cat Spring is only one of many small towns in this area that were founded by the early settlers of Texas. Each town has its own unique personality, signature events, and features.

NEW ULM

New Ulm, on the Missouri, Kansas and Texas line at the intersection of Farm roads 109 and 1094, in extreme western Austin County, was first known as Duff’s Settlement, in honor of James C. Duff, who in 1841 acquired title to the tract on which the town was founded. (more at https://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/entries/new-ulm-tx)

New Ulm is best known for it’s art festivals, bee festival, and Motorcross Track. It is home to an Ace Hardware Store, Industry State Bank, and several popular restaurants. Click this link for a very handy listing of businesses and events.

INDUSTRY

Industry, on State Highway 159 in northwest Austin County, was the first permanent German settlement in Texas. Its first residents were Johann Friedrich Ernst and his family, who had come from Germany, briefly resided in New York, and en route to Missouri learned about free land available in Texas. (more at https://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/entries/industry-tx)

Industry is home to the Industry Telephone Company and Industry I-net Internet Provider for this area, as well as a Dollar General, Lindemann’s General Store, many other businesses, and the West End Elementary School which is part of the Bellville ISD.