Centralia is an unincorporated community in Trinity County, Texas, United States.[1] In 2000, the estimated population was 53 residents. It is located within the Huntsville, Texas micropolitan area.

Centralia
Centralia is located in Texas
Centralia
Centralia
Location within the state of Texas
Centralia is located in the United States
Centralia
Centralia
Centralia (the United States)
Coordinates: 31°15′29″N 95°02′24″W / 31.25806°N 95.04000°W / 31.25806; -95.04000
CountryUnited States
StateTexas
CountyTrinity
Population
 (2000)
 • Total
53
Time zoneUTC-6 (Central (CST))
 • Summer (DST)UTC-5 (CDT)

Historical development

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The town was originally settled around the time of the Civil War, with the town square being established the following decade. As the town was located between Nogalus Prairie and Apple Springs, it was given the name Centralia. In 1874, the post office was opened and over the next 11 years, the town would grow to have a population of 150 residents, along with the addition of two general stores, several steam sawmills and gristmills, two blacksmiths, and a saloon. As late as 1914, the population would be at its peak at 300. After World War I, businesses would begin to close with the town’s population dwindling over the next several decades. In the mid-1930s, the community had a store, a chair factory, and 75 residents. The population was 26 in 1990 and 53 in 2000.[2]

On April 25, 2011, an EF1 tornado struck Centralia. Many trees were downed near Davy Crockett National Forest.[3]

Geography

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Centralia is located on Farm to Market Road 357, 15 mi (24 km) northeast of Groveton in northeastern Trinity County.[2]

Education

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Centralia had its own school in 1885.[2] Today, the community is served by the Apple Springs Independent School District.

Notable person

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David Henry Hamilton, Texas statesman, resided here.[4]

References

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  1. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Centralia, Texas
  2. ^ a b c Centralia, TX from the Handbook of Texas Online
  3. ^ "Results Of National Weather Service Storm Surveys". National Weather Service Office in Houston/Galveston, Texas. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. April 27, 2011. Retrieved December 30, 2013.
  4. ^ Legislative Reference Library of Texas