Medina County

Did anyone here know Medina County is named after a river? What about that river was named after a cartographer? It’s true! This county we’re standing in is Medina County. It takes its name from the Medina River, which flows right through it. In 1689, a Spanish explorer named Alonso de Leon came across the river for the first time. He decided to name it after Pedro de Medina, a fellow Spaniard and a renowned cartographer. Now, here’s a fun fact. Did you know Pedro de Medina himself got his last name from the city of Medina-Sidonia in Spain? And if we go even further back, the name “Medina” actually comes from the Arabic word for “city.” The history of Medina County is fascinating. It was officially established in 1848. Back then, the bustling town of Castroville was chosen as the county seat. But things changed in 1892, and the honor was passed on to Hondo, where it remains to this day. For those of you interested in engineering marvels, Medina County is also home to the impressive Medina Dam. Completed in 1913, it was a sight to behold, ranking as the fourth largest dam in the entire country at that time. And what did this grand dam create? Why, the beautiful Medina Lake, of course! A true testament to human ingenuity, over 1,500 skilled workers toiled tirelessly day and night to finish the Medina Dam in just two years – a remarkable feat! Their dedication has provided generations with not only water but also stunning views and fantastic fishing opportunities. So, next time you cast a line in Medina Lake or enjoy the scenery, take a moment to appreciate the legacy of those hardworking individuals who made it all possible.