Austin White Lime Company impacts economy
Austin White Lime Company impacts economy
Written by Jim Dawson Tuesday, 07 November 2006
Driving on McNeil Road west of Round Rock, one can see the mining operation that has produced high-grade lime for more than 117 years.
Austin White Lime Company was established in 1888 by Alfred M. Martin and Mr. Walker and probably has impacted the economic development of the city of Round Rock as much as any business during the first 100 years of operation. Alfred Robinson joined the company in 1912. Later his sons, Alfred H. and George E Robinson, took over the operation. Today the company is still operated by members of the Robinson family.
The mine was located at the intersection of the International & Great Northern Railroad and the Austin and Northwestern Railroad, which enabled them to ship their products with relative ease.
Still visible from McNeil are portions of an original wood-fired kiln used to burn the water out of the limestone to produce quicklime, a principle ingredient of cement. The kilns were heated to around 900 degrees using cedar firewood that was chopped by hand axe and hauled by mule and wagon. Everything was done by hand, including quarrying the limestone. They also acquired firewood from individuals, which was a source of income for many locals. Oak was also purchased for the making of barrels by the company’s coopers.
Another property of lime is that it emits a very bright light when heated. This was used in early theatre productions to create spotlights, thus coining the phrase “in the limelight.”
In 1894, 300 barrels of lime were produced daily from the operation. The company employed 30 to 50 men during this time. Most of the workers, including a large Mexican-American population, lived in nearby company houses.
To help the employees, the company also opened a company store, which is still in operation today at the mine. Not only did the store provide food and other necessities for employees, but also served as a social gathering place.
The company also established their own monetary exchange. Tokens were issued that could be redeemed at the store.
The McNeil post office, located in the store was begun in 1888 with Addison Sheppard as the first postmaster and still serves the area.
0 Comments 