Location

Cisco is a small city located in Eastland County, Texas, United States. It is situated at the intersection of Interstate 20 and U.S. Highway 183, approximately 100 miles west of Fort Worth and 150 miles east of Abilene.

The city covers an area of 3.5 square miles and has a population of around 3,800 people. It is part of the Abilene Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History

Cisco was founded in 1881 as a stop on the Texas and Pacific Railway. It was named after John A. Cisco, a New York financier who helped fund the railroad. The city grew rapidly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, thanks to its location on the railway and the discovery of oil in the area.

During the 1920s, Cisco was known as the “Gateway to the West” and was a major transportation hub for the region. However, the Great Depression and the decline of the oil industry led to a decline in the city’s fortunes.

Today, Cisco is a quiet, rural community with a rich history and a strong sense of community pride.

Attractions

Despite its small size, Cisco has several attractions that are worth visiting:

• Cisco Historical Museum: This museum showcases the history of Cisco and the surrounding area, with exhibits on the railroad, oil industry, and local culture.
• Conrad Hilton Center: This center is dedicated to the life and legacy of Conrad Hilton, the founder of the Hilton Hotels chain. Hilton was born in Cisco in 1887 and lived there until he was 7 years old.
• Lake Cisco: This 640-acre lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and camping. It is located just outside the city limits and offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
• Old Rip Park: This park is named after Old Rip, a horned toad that was allegedly found alive after being sealed in the cornerstone of the Eastland County Courthouse for 31 years. The park features a statue of Old Rip and a playground for children.