Republic Square (Austin)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Republic Square | |
|---|---|
| Hemphill Square (1888-1976) | |
 | |
 | |
 Interactive map of Republic Square | |
| Type | Public park |
| Location | 422 Guadalupe St Austin, Texas 78703 |
| Coordinates | 30°16′04″N 97°44′50″W / 30.2678°N 97.7473°W |
| Area | 1 acre (0.40 ha)[1] |
| Created | 1888 |
Republic Square is an urban park in central Austin, Texas. Located in Downtown Austin, the park features a grassy area meant for festivals and events as well as shaded areas under live oak trees. The SFC Farmers' Market meets at the square every Saturday morning.[2][failed verification]
Originally called "Hemphill Square", Republic Square was one of four public squares laid out in the 1839 Waller Plan of Austin by Edwin Waller.[3] The square functioned as a normal urban park up until the mid-twentieth century when it served as a parking lot.[3] The neighborhood surrounding the park became significant for its Mexican American residents throughout the late 1800s and early 1900s.[4] During the United States Bicentennial, the city of Austin transformed the square to its former glory, and was later revitalized again in 2017.[5] Despite many physical changes, the historic heritage Auction Oaks survived and remain a centerpiece to the square till this day.[6]