History

Shepherd is located in San Jacinto County, Texas just north of Houston. European settlers began coming into the region in the early part of the 19 th century. They came for various reasons. Some came to live in the pioneer spirit of the wilderness. Others came with their slaves hoping to establish a slave society in the Texas Republic; while many came to be apart of the budding lumber and agricultural economies taking hold in the region. After Texas became a state in 1845, it opened up new possibilities for development.

Shortly after the Civil War, railroad companies flooded into Texas. These new modes of transportation connected Texas with the rest of the country and as a result, the economy of the region began to boom. It was during this time that Shepherd was founded. A Houston Banker named B.A. Shepherd came to the county looking to buy land along the incoming Houston East and West Railway. He selected a site along the railroad and quickly platted a community. The post office of the community was officially established in 1879. The community quickly became connected to the lumber industry. A few sawmills established operation in the city center. The community also became a shipping center for the local agricultural industry.

Despite the region’s growth, Shepherd remained small until 1936 when a power line was connected to the community. This new line gave the residents electricity on a scale that they hadn’t had before and the population began to grow. In 1968, the artificial Lake Livingston was completed to the north of the town. This lake altered the economy of the region, by shifting it towards tourism and recreation.

Today

Today the population is nearly 2,500 people. The business community in the region is geared towards tourism and recreation. During the hot summer months, people come from all over to visit Lake Livingston. Because of Shepherd’s location, they almost certainly have to pass through it to get to the lake. The region is one of the fastest growing regions in the entire country and although the town is a little ways north of Houston, it is has still felt the impact.

Things to do

Lake Livingston is one of the hottest attractions in the region. It is a great place to spend the hot, summer days in Texas. People come from all over to boat, fish, swim, and enjoy water sports. Just to the west of Lake Livingston is the Sam Houston National Forest. This is a great spot for nature hikes and wildlife viewing. A fun way to see the region is to take a horseback ride. Faith Ridin’ Stables is located just to the north of town.

The region is full of small charming towns that are worth checking out. If you are up for the ride south, Houston is just a short drive away. Houston is home to some of the country’s top restaurants, nightlife spots, retail, and entertainment venues. It is an easy drive there and you are sure to find all that you are looking for.