The MKT, commonly called “the Katy” railroad, laid track from Ft. Worth to Hillsboro Tx in 1881. They continued south, to Taylor in 1882 as part of their long term plan to reach the Gulf.
Almost 10 years later in 1890 the Katy decided to build a Dallas to Hillsboro line to provide a more direct connection between Dallas and points south of Hillsboro. The newly chartered, Dallas & Waco Railway made the connection from Dallas to Hillsboro in 1890 and became part of the Katy Rail Road in 1891.
The Katy brought shops in to Hillsboro and built Katy Lake to provide a permanent water supply for steam engines. Unfortunately the shops closed in 1930 in favor of larger facilities in Waco. Thankfully Katy Lake remains intact near the junction of the two Katy lines north of town.
What happened to the MKT building?
The MKT depot; built to serve the Missouri-Kansas-Texas (Katy) Rail Line, that reached Hillsboro in 1881. Completed in 1902, the station features elements of the Eastlake, Victorian, and Prairie styles making a very unique building.
After completion, early MKT trains would carry materials into the growing Hillsboro town. Not only materials, but the MKT Rail Road brought early residents to town. Some known names first on scene in Hillsboro were, presidents Woodrow Wilson, William Taft, Calvin Coolidge, and Harry Truman to Hillsboro.
In 1978 the building moved to its current location from the original site between two tracks. After its move, the building became a Texas Historic Landmark in 1980.
Today the MKT Depot serves as the Hillsboro, Texas visitor center and Chamber of Commerce. Generally open Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm. The staff are friendly, and love talking about Hillsboro events, history, and tips for visitors.
To contact us please call: 254-582-2481
