Region: Prairies and Lakes
This agricultural village just off I-10, halfway between Houston and San
Antonio, was founded by the Southern Pacific Railroad in 1873 and named for
pioneer merchant F.W. Flato. Waves of immigrants—English, German, Bohemian,
Czech and Italian—settled in and around Flatonia. The town most prominently
celebrates colorful Czech traditions; for example, calling their annual
(October) chili festival Czhilispiel. Local sausages and kolaches are popular.
The city is a well-known spot for watching trains, especially with the
crossrails that run north-south and east-west.
Nearby Cities: Shiner, Smithville, Rockne, Somerville, Moulton, Sheridan, more...