Region: Prairies and Lakes
Originally established as Bold Springs, the town was renamed West in 1881 for
Thomas W. West, who sold land for the railroad and for businesses wanting to
locate close to the rail depot. West became a successful businessman, owning a
hotel, furniture store and bank. Czech immigrants came to the area for the rich
farmland. Many descendants of the original settlers continue to farm wheat,
maize and cotton here.
Czech traditions remain today and can be seen in cooking, baking, arts and
crafts, and the love for polka music. The Texas Legislature recognized West as
the "Czech Heritage Capital of Texas" and "home of the official Kolache of the
Texas Legislature."
Since 1976, thousands have converged on the city each Labor Day Weekend for
Westfest, which features music, arts and crafts, kolaches and sausage. Westfest
Inc., P.O. Box 65, West, 76691. 254/826-5058. www.westfest.com.
Bed-and-breakfast accommodations available in historic buildings. Bakeries
and restaurants feature Czech foods. Numerous stores feature antiques, arts and
crafts, and imported Czech crystal and jewelry.