Belton, Texas 2024

Belton is a city located in Bell County, Texas, United States. As of the 2020 census, the population was 20,645. It is the county seat of Bell County. Belton is known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreation opportunities.

History:

Belton was founded in 1850 as a small farming community along the Chisholm Trail. The city was named after a nearby creek that was believed to have been named after a BELT of grass that grew in the area. Over the years, Belton grew slowly but steadily, developing into a small agricultural center with a few stores, a post office, and several churches.

In the late 1800s, the city experienced a population boom when the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad extended its line through Belton. The railroad brought new residents and businesses to the area, and Belton became a thriving commercial center.

During World War II, Belton saw significant growth as the tank destroyer training center at Fort Hood, located just outside the city limits, brought thousands of soldiers to the area. After the war, many of these soldiers returned to Belton and started families, contributing to the city's continued growth.

Culture:

Belton has a strong sense of community and culture, with a mix of small-town charm and big-city amenities. The city hosts several cultural events throughout the year, including the annual Belton Bowl, a Fourth of July celebration, and a Christmas parade.

One of the city's most notable cultural attractions is the Bell County Museum, which showcases the history and heritage of Bell County through exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs. The museum is located in the historic Belton train depot and offers free admission.

Food:

Belton is known for its barbecue, and there are several restaurants throughout the city that serve up delicious plates of smoked meats and sides. The city is also home to a number of other dining options, including Tex-Mex, Italian, Chinese, and Southern cuisine.

Local Attractions:

Belton has several local attractions that offer something for everyone. The Belton Lake Outdoor Recreation Area offers boating, fishing, and camping opportunities, as well as hiking and biking trails. The Belton Aquatic Center is a popular destination for families during the summer months, featuring a lazy river, water slides, and a splash pad.

The city also has several parks, including the 43-acre Belton Park, which features playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails. The park is also home to the Belton Playhouse, a community theater that produces several productions throughout the year.

People:

Belton is a tight-knit community with a diverse population of families, young professionals, and retirees. The city has a strong sense of hospitality, and visitors are often surprised by the friendly and welcoming locals.

According to the 2020 census, the racial makeup of Belton was 74.2% White, 14.2% Black or African American, 0.8% Native American, 1.4% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, and 2.2% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 21.4% of the population.

The median age in the city was 33.1 years, and the median household income was $46,145. The per capita income for the city was $23,324.

Overall, Belton, Texas, is a vibrant and welcoming city that offers a high quality of life, rich history, and diverse culture. Its small-town charm, combined with its accessibility to larger cities like Waco and Austin, make it an attractive place to live, work, and visit.

Belton, Texas, is a city with a rich history and culture that offers its residents a great place to live, work, and visit. With its small-town charm, diverse culture, and outdoor recreation opportunities, Belton is a vibrant and welcoming community. From its historic downtown area to its outdoor recreation opportunities, Belton has something for everyone.