Smithville, TX: A Historical Overview

Nestled in the heart of Texas lies Smithville, a town with a rich history and a promising future, especially in terms of connectivity. The journey of Smithville from a historic settlement to a modern hub of gigFAST INTERNET, provided by RTA Rural Telecommunications of America, Inc., is a testament to its dynamic evolution.

The Historic Roots of Smithville

The story of Smithville began in 1691 when missionaries on the expedition of Don Domingo Teran De Los Rios discovered a lagoon called Nenocadda by the locals, known today as Shipp's Lake, marking the southern edge of present-day Smithville. Its early history was marked by the establishment of Frederick W. Grasmeyer's ferry across the Colorado River in 1836 and the operation of steamboats between 1845 and 1865. Originally, Smithville was laid out on 640 acres granted to Thomas J. Gazley and Lewis Lomas, located on the Colorado River in what is now the northeast section of the town. It flourished with mercantile stores, dry goods shops, and a Masonic Lodge, with its first post office opening in 1876 under Postmaster John Pride Jones. The arrival of the Taylor, Bastrop, and Houston Railroad, later part of the Missouri, Kansas and Texas system (MKT, "Katy"), in 1886, prompted the relocation of Smithville to its current site along the tracks. The town's name, chosen by a coin toss, honored pioneer settler William Smith over the proposed Burlesonville. Incorporated in 1895 with T.C. Collins as its first mayor, Smithville has grown into a municipality covering approximately 3.5 square miles, preserving its historical essence while embracing modern developments.

The Advent of gigFAST INTERNET

In a significant leap towards modernization, Smithville embraced the digital age through the introduction of gigFAST INTERNET by RTA Rural Telecommunications of America, Inc. This initiative represents a breakthrough in internet connectivity, bringing the most efficient, fastest, and reliable service to the residents of Texas, including Smithville. gigFAST INTERNET stands out for its use of fiber internet, a broadband connection capable of speeds up to 940 Megabits per second, far surpassing traditional DSL, cable, or satellite networks. This service offers unparalleled efficiency and speed, ensuring that Smithville's residents and businesses stay connected in the fast-paced digital world.

A Community Transformed

The collaboration between Smithville and RTA Rural Telecommunications of America, Inc. to provide gigFAST INTERNET has transformed the town into a connected community, where the limitations of geography are overcome by the power of high-speed internet. This service is not just about speed; it's about breaking barriers and creating opportunities. With no contracts, data limits, or overage charges, and a 12-month price guarantee, gigFAST INTERNET is a beacon of progress for Smithville.

In summary, Smithville's journey from a historic settlement by the Colorado River to a modern, connected community is a reflection of its resilience and adaptability. The town's partnership with RTA Rural Telecommunications of America, Inc. for gigFAST INTERNET connectivity is a pivotal chapter in its ongoing story, highlighting the blend of tradition and innovation that defines Smithville, TX.