History

Originally founded as a railroad town, Temple is rich in history. Temple’s story began on June 29th, 1881 when the Temple Junction was created as three major railways the Gulf, Colorado, and Santa Fe Railway pushed north from Galveston. Through an auction of town lots, 157 business lots and 28 residential lots were sold forming the new settlement named in honor of Bernard Moore Temple, the Santa Fe Railway’s chief engineer.

Today, the city is known as one of the leading medical centers in the Southwest, and includes the Baylor Scott and White Hospital and Clinic, Olin E. Teague Veterans Center (V.A. Hospital), and McLane Children’s Hospital. The city has grown steadily due to its diverse economy. New businesses are continuing to call Temple and its downtown district home. Venues such as the Temple Railroad and Heritage Museum, Moody Depot, and Czech Heritage Museum remind visitors and locals of the heritage and rich history of this railroad town with big dreams.

Growth

Temple has grown steadily because of its diverse economy – agriculture, transportation, manufacturing, and medicine. It continues to shine as one of Texas’ brightest stars.