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The Cotton Gin
History

Maxwell, TX

By: Barbara Stock

Type: General Entry

Published: 1952

source: Texas State Historical Associacion

Updated: September 17, 2020

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MAXWELL, TX.Maxwell is on the Missouri, Kansas and Texas Railroad at the juncture of State Highway 142 and Farm Road 1966, eight miles west of Lockhart in northwest Caldwell County. In 1887 the Katy built through the community and the original name, New Martindale, was changed to Maxwell, in honor of Thomas Maxwell, who obtained a grant in 1845 for the league of land on which the community stands. 

 

The Lutheran church, first organized in 1886, conducted services and classes in both German and English until the early 1940s. Social life in early Maxwell centered around the dancing, singing, and shooting clubs traditional to German communities.

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Maxwell had a population of 225, two churches, two general stores, two cotton gins, and a bank in 1914 and later three cotton gins, a restaurant, a physician, a drugstore, and numerous retail establishments. In 1929 the town had a population of 400 and eighteen businesses. It subsequently declined. In 1980 the community was the location for the filming of a movie, Raggedy Man, in which locals appeared in small roles. The Katy Railroad, purchased by the Union Pacific, opened new routes to San Marcos in 1989. In 1990 Maxwell had the post office, nine small businesses, and a population of 185. The population grew to 500 by 2000. The community's largest employer, the Nagle Manufacturing and Supply Company, manufactured coathangers.

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THE COTTON GIN 

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1845

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"Open Space On Rent"

A versatile event space, Cotton Gin is located at Railroad Street in Maxwell. Replete with a bull riding arena and sports complex, the space is also rented out for private and corporate events. Open space amidst beautiful nature, makes this a perfect spot to host weddings, parties or social gatherings. Visit website to know more.

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