Giddings

Established on H&TC Railroad when track was laid from Brenham to Austin in 1871, Giddings was settled chiefly by Wendish immigrants who moved to the railroad from Serbin community 6 miles south. Notorious outlaw Bill Longley hanged here on October 11, 1878. There is an historical marker at the grave in the cemetery on U.S. 290 at the west city limit. Increasing oil production in the area is Gidding’s major activity, while the area is also rich in lignite, fuller’s earth, and clay.