Collection: Austin Texas

Austin began in the 1830s along the Colorado River, first called Waterloo before being chosen as the capital of the Republic of Texas in 1839. Its founding was a mix of frontier hardship and ambition, as leaders wanted a centrally located city that embodied independence. Settlers built cabins and cleared land, while government officials envisioned a permanent seat of power. Those early years were marked by resilience and optimism, laying the groundwork for Austin’s identity as a place where politics, culture, and frontier toughness came together to shape the heart of Texas.

Through the nineteenth century, Austin grew slowly but steadily, with the University of Texas established in 1883 as a cultural anchor. By the 1950s, highways and industry began to reshape the city’s footprint, connecting it more directly to Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio. The 1960s brought music, technology, and activism into Austin’s identity, as students, artists, and politicians gave the city its distinct voice. This timeline shows a city rooted in its 1839 founding but continually reinventing itself through education, culture, and growth, making Austin both a capital of governance and a hub of creativity.

Austin proudly calls itself the “Live Music Capital of the World,” a title born in the mid-twentieth century. Local legends recall Willie Nelson performing in bars near the university, and students flocking to Sixth Street to discover new sounds. Another enduring story centers on Barton Springs, a natural pool cherished by residents for generations. These myths and memories combine into a sense of identity that is both playful and enduring. Whether through music, water, or politics, Austin’s stories show how a frontier capital grew into a cultural landmark with worldwide recognition.

Our Austin retro logo ties this heritage together with the unmistakable Texas longhorn and Lone Star. The longhorn’s sweeping horns mirror the state’s frontier resilience, while the star evokes independence and unity. The bold black-and-white styling recalls signage from rodeos, stockyards, and state fairs, timeless and practical. Just as Austin bridges frontier grit and cultural creativity, the motif balances toughness with pride. On a sticker, hoodie, or tee, the design keeps alive the values of endurance and independence, grounding Austin in Texas identity while celebrating its evolution as a modern capital city.

Today Austin represents a crossroads of heritage and progress. Its skyline mixes historic government buildings with modern towers, while music, food, and politics define daily life. Residents and visitors alike experience a city that remains grounded in resilience yet thrives on creativity. Our Austin designs reflect this story, tying longhorn grit and Lone Star pride to cultural energy. They invite you to carry Austin’s spirit wherever you go — a reminder of both history and innovation. Explore the Austin collection and bring forward a piece of Texas capital heritage in retro vintage style.

Austin Texas — Travel Guide

Visiting Austin Texas Today

Austin, the Texas capital, mixes government history with live music and Hill Country landscapes. Known for its creative energy, it is a city of festivals, outdoor fun, and proud Texan culture.

Museums, Parks, and Live Music in Austin Texas

For visitors searching for things to do in Austin Texas:

• See the Texas State Capitol - historic seat of government with grand architecture.
• Walk Lady Bird Lake trails - water views and outdoor activity in the city center.
• Tour the Bullock Texas State History Museum - exhibits tracing Texas heritage.
• Experience Sixth Street - live music and the heartbeat of Austin nightlife.
• Relax in Zilker Park - open space and gateway to Barton Springs.

Why People Visit Austin Texas

Austin blends political history, outdoor living, and world-famous music. Visitors come for culture, food, and festivals, while locals prize creativity and community spirit. It is both a capital city and a playground in the Hill Country. A retro Austin shirt or cap makes a fitting badge of the Live Music Capital of the World.

For more in depth history research in Austin, Texas it may be useful to reach out to (1) the Austin historical society, (2) the Austin public library local history room, (3) the Texas state archives or historical commission, (4) the Austin town or city clerk records office, and (5) the Austin preservation or conservation commission. For more travel information in Austin, Texas it may be useful to contact (1) the Austin chamber of commerce, (2) the Austin visitors bureau or tourist board, (3) the Austin parks and recreation department, (4) the Texas state park office, and (5) the Austin regional transportation or airport information desk.