Harlingen
Harlingen's strategic location at the intersection of U.S. highways 77 and 83 in northwestern Cameron County fostered its development as a distribution, shipping, and industrial center. In 1904 Lon C. Hill envisioned the Arroyo Colorado as a commercial waterway. He named the town he founded on the north bank after a city in Holland. The town's post office was established that year. The first school opened with fifteen pupils in 1905 near the Hill home, the first residence built in Harlingen. Harlingen was incorporated on April 15, 1910, when the population totaled 1,126. In 1920 the census listed 1,748. The local economy at first was almost entirely agricultural. Major crops were vegetables and cotton.
Adapted from the official Handbook of Texas, a state encyclopedia developed by the Texas State Historical Association (TSHA). It is an authoritative source of trusted historical records.
Minnie Gilbert | © Texas State Historical Association
At a Glance
Belongs to
Harlingen is part of or belongs to the following places.
Adopt a Town
The Texas Almanac's Land Rush program lets you adopt the town or county of your choice and share your message with the world. 100% of the proceeds benefit education in Texas.
- Adoption Status: ⭐
- This place has been adopted and will not be available until September 5, 2023
- Adopted by:
- Liza M. Saldana
- Dedication Message:
- In honor of my Saldana family. Especially to my 3rd Great Grandfather Francisco Saldana making a home in this city, before it was a city, for our families at La Providencia Ranch, in May 26, 1873.
Currently Exists
Yes
Place type
Harlingen is classified as a Town
Associated Names
- (Lon Hill's Town)
- (Six-Shooter Junction)
Locations
-
- Latitude
- 26.18999020
- Longitude
- -97.69448800
Has Post Office
Yes
Is Incorporated
Yes
Harlingen by the Numbers
Population Counts
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Population Counts
Harlingen
| Pop. | Year | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 68,328 | 2019 | Texas Demographic Center |
| 64,849 | 2010 | Texas Demographic Center |
| 57,564 | 2000 | Texas Demographic Center |
| 48,746 | 1990 | Texas Demographic Center |
| 43,543 | 1980 | Texas Demographic Center |
| 33,503 | 1970 | Texas Demographic Center |
| 41,207 | 1960 | Texas Demographic Center |
| 23,229 | 1950 | Texas Demographic Center |
| 13,306 | 1940 | Texas Demographic Center |
| 12,124 | 1930 | Texas Demographic Center |
| 1,784 | 1920 | Texas Demographic Center |