Region: Prairies and Lakes
Pronounced "High-Koe." In northeastern Hamilton County, city was named by founder Dr. John R. Alford for his hometown in Kentucky. Original site was on Honey Creek; when the Texas Central Railroad was built nearby, the citizens moved two and-a-half miles to the railroad line. Hico was incorporated in 1883 and became the county's shipping center. Over the years the city prospered as a cotton and cattle market center; today ranching and tourism are major contributors to the economy.
The downtown area, at U.S. 281 and Texas 6 features antique stores, artist studio, restaurants, a leather shop and much more. Free musical entertainment by local talent on Saturday night.
For those with a sweet tooth, the historical home of internationally known photographer Frank Rufus Wiseman, built in 1903, houses a chocolate company, as well as antiques.
One of the oldest Old Settler's Reunions, dating from 1882, is held annually each July on the picnic grounds in city park.