Waco

Waco is a city located in central Texas and the birthplace of Dr. Pepper soft drink. It has an estimated population of 138,000 people (2020), making it the 22nd-most populous city in Texas. Situated along Interstate 35 between Austin and Dallas, Waco is part of the larger Waco metropolitan area which had an estimated population of 260,855 as of 2019. The median income for a household in Waco was $36,354 according to 2018 estimates by census data provider American FactFinder; this is lower than both national ($60,293) and state ($59,206) averages at that time.

The history of Waco dates back to 1849 when Thomas M. Duke purchased land alongside the Brazos River from Native Americans who lived nearby prior to European settlement on behalf of his father George B Baylor University was founded here shortly afterwards in 1845 as one branch among many Baptist schools established throughout Texas during this period; today it remains centrally important within local culture & economy with over 17 000 students enrolled annually . A dam project completed across river facilitated further economic growth due its ability generate hydroelectric power while providing navigable waterways upriver towards Fort Worth – leading some historians refer region colloquially “sixth Great Lake” or “Lake Brazos” .

In 1893 construction began on world’s first skyscraper outside New York City: The ALICO building which still stands downtown nearly 130 years later! During World War II large military bases were built near town e g Camp MacArthur; these served home base multiple units Army Air Corps including famous Flying Tigers squadron before they moved China fight Japanese forces there 1944–1945 . Additionally factories such manufacturing plant producing cotton goods opened along banks river late 19th century early 20th century facilitating development industry commerce within community itself well surrounding areas too

Today much focus placed upon tourism attractions like Cameron Park Zoo Magnolia Market Silo District (featured HGTV show Fixer Upper ) Mayborn Museum Complex plus numerous sports venues performing arts centers around town provide entertainment visitors locals alike ! There also several annual festivals held every year such Heart O’Texas Fair Rodeo Indian Summer Festival – all help ensure unique identity lively atmosphere continues exist into future generations come visit enjoy what wonderful city offers them…