Oak Hill lies about eight miles southwest of downtown Austin. The area was first known as Live Oak Springs in the mid-19th century, named after the groves of oak trees and natural springs found there.

By the late 1860s, the community had also become known as Oatmanville, after Benjamin F. Oatman, a local landowner. A post office was established under the name Oak Hill in 1870, giving the community its permanent designation.

Industry and Development

During the late 19th century, Oak Hill developed industries that shaped its early economy. Settlers harvested cedar, which was widely used for fence posts and building materials after the Civil War.

Even more significant was the area’s limestone quarrying. Stone from Oak Hill was selected for use in the construction of the Texas State Capitol in the 1880s. To facilitate transport, the Austin and Oatmanville Railway was chartered in 1883. This short line ran from the quarries at Oatmanville to Austin and connected with the Austin and Northwestern Railroad. The railway operated only a few years and was abandoned in 1888, but during that period it carried limestone used in the Capitol’s foundation, basement, cross walls, and other structural elements.

Population and Growth

Oak Hill remained a rural community well into the 20th century. In 1904, its population was estimated at about 200 residents. By the 1970s, the figure had only doubled to roughly 400.

Significant growth came later, as Austin expanded outward and suburban development accelerated. By the year 2000, the Oak Hill planning area—covering East and West Oak Hill—had a population of more than 24,000.

Annexation and Modern Oak Hill

As Austin grew, parts of Oak Hill were annexed into the city limits, transforming the once-rural settlement into a suburban district. Today, Oak Hill includes both residential neighborhoods and commercial corridors. East Oak Hill features more densely developed subdivisions, while West Oak Hill retains a more semi-rural character with larger lots and open spaces.

Verified Facts Summary

• Originally called Live Oak Springs; later Oatmanville; post office as Oak Hill in 1870.

• Industries included cedar cutting and limestone quarrying.

• Austin and Oatmanville Railway built in 1883 to haul limestone for the Texas State Capitol; abandoned in 1888.

• Population: ~200 (1904); ~400 (1970s); ~24,000 (2000, planning area).

• Now part of Austin city limits, with distinct East and West Oak Hill communities.