McDade, Texas: Echoes of the Wild West and Pottery Legacy

Tucked along US‑290 just east of Elgin, McDade is a tiny Bastrop County community—population around 720—rich in both legend and local flavor (en.wikipedia.org). Founded in 1869 as a railroad freight hub known as “Tie City,” the town garnered notoriety through vigilante justice, saloon shootouts, and hangings—including the infamous “Christmas Massacre” of 1883 (bastroptexas.net). Today, the historic Rock Front Saloon stands as the McDade Historical Museum, featuring Wild West artifacts, pottery pieces, and tales of early outlaws like the Notch Cutters (houstonchronicle.com).

🍽️ Dining in a Time-Frozen Town

Despite its small size, McDade offers delightful local dining. Scales’ Café, a family-owned spot run by New Orleans natives, serves fresh American-Cajun cuisine with breakfast, lunch, and dinner options alongside live music and a friendly atmosphere (tripadvisor.com). Whether you're craving a hearty gumbo or a classic cheeseburger in this vintage setting, a visit here feels like stepping into a small-town community hub.

🛍️ Unique Shopping & Hidden Treasures

McDade’s “downtown” block resembles a Western film set—largely quiet and preserved—perfect for exploring its nostalgic charm . While large retailers are absent, you’ll find distinctive souvenirs like McDade Pottery collectibles, crafted from clay once mined nearby. These handcrafted pieces, dating back to the McDade Pottery plant (1893–1942), are prized by collectors and carry the town’s artistic legacy (tshaonline.org). The museum and occasional local artisans offer small-scale shopping experiences that celebrate McDade’s creative roots.

🏛️ History to Hold in Your Hand

The McDade Historical Museum is the centerpiece of the town’s cultural life. Open regularly and by appointment, this former saloon–post office structure showcases artifacts from its lawless past: saloon bars, gambling rooms, pottery, even the first TV in town (houstonchronicle.com). Just outside town, you’ll spot historical markers and the original railroad depot that speak to McDade’s role as a transport and industrial node in Bastrop County .

🎉 Community Spirit & Seasonal Events

McDade pulses with small-town energy, especially during its annual Watermelon Festival every July—complete with a parade, car show, queen’s revue, vendors, and community fundraising (austinranchesforsale.com). Nearby, the Sherwood Forest Faire, held each spring, brings medieval-themed booths, crafts, food, and entertainment—an unexpected highlight just moments from this historic town (austinranchesforsale.com).

In McDade, every building, café table, and pottery shard tells a story—from its boiling Wild West past to its thriving pottery legacy. For those craving genuine Texas history, authentic community dining, and rare collectibles, a drive through McDade offers a window into Bastrop County's colorful soul.