Last week we shared some interesting facts about San Antonio, so this week it’s all about Austin. Most people know that Austin is the capital of Texas, but there is so much more to this city. Keep reading to learn something new about your hometown!

8 Interesting Facts about Austin

Austin was originally called the Waterloo. That’s right, the town of Waterloo was given its new name in 1839, in honor of Stephen F Austin, who is known as the “Father of Texas.”
It hasn’t always been the capital of Texas. Austin became the capital of Texas in 1839, but in 1942, Sam Houston (the president of Texas), declared Washington-on-the-Brazos the new state capital. Washington-on-the-Brazos was Texas’ capital until 1845, when Austin was voted to be the state capital once again.
In 1991, Austin became known as the Live Music Capital of the World. Seriously, of the entire world! The city claimed this title by having the most live music venues per capita (nearly 200!). Austin also hosts many music festivals each year.
It has the largest urban bat population. One and a half million bats live under the Congress Avenue Bridge in Austin. If you haven’t taken a family trip to watch them take flight, be sure to add it to your list! (You can see them from March through October.)
Austin is home to a unique, endangered salamander. The Barton Springs Salamander only lives in, you guessed it, Austin’s Barton Springs water system. This salamander is one of few species that is aquatic its entire life. Learn more about the Barton Springs Salamander and what you can do to keep them safe.
Since 1963, Austin has celebrated the birthday of Eeyore. This annual celebration serves as a way for the community to support local non-profit groups. It’s free to attend, and there’s no shortage of foods and beverages to enjoy throughout the day. The event always takes place the last Saturday of April.
One of Austin’s nicknames is “The City of the Violet Crown.” The stunningly purple sunsets earned the city this name. Think of Austin’s nickname next time you observe the purple scenery at sunset.

We hope you learned something new about Austin today. Don’t forget to pass your favorite fact along to your family!