Belton, Bell County
Railroads greatly impacted the development of Texas by allowing year-round transport and delivery of goods. The Gulf, Colorado & Santa Fe Railroad bypassed Belton in 1881, and residents arranged for the rail line to build a spur into the city. In 1882, the Missouri, Kansas & Texas (Katy) Railroad came to Belton and established a bridge across the Leon River, making Belton a shipping center for area cotton growers. Circa 1900, the Katy Railroad built this bridge to replace earlier trestles. The riveted steel Parker truss structure, visible from Taylors Valley Road, is an example of early 20th century engineering and is a reminder of the importance of rail service to the development of Belton. (2004)