Bryan is the county seat of Brazos County and has a population of about 76,000. Summers are hot with temperatures averaging in the 90s, and the winters are very mild, with average temperatures in the 60s. It very rarely snows there. Together with College Station, the area has a lot to offer, and if you are thinking of moving to Bryan you will find a city with all the amenities of a big city coupled with small town charm.
Economy:
The median household income for Bryan, Texas is lower than the state average. The cost of living is much less than the national average. Unemployment is 5.8 percent. Bryan has a healthy economy, with a good mix of educational, health care and tech jobs. The major employers in the area include Texas A & M University, Sanderson Farms, Alenco, Garrett Mechanical and the Reynolds and Reynolds Company. The majority of jobs in the area are in education.
History:
The area was first settled by Stephan Austin and his followers in the early 1820s. Land was given to the railroad right away to establish a depot there. The town was named Bryan in honor of Austin's nephew William Bryan. In 1866 a post office was opened and the name Bryan became official. The railroad arrived there in 1867 after being delayed by the Civil War. By this time, the town was also the county seat. The area grew very fast and became the center of business in the surrounding area. By the very early 1900s, the city had five cotton gins, two cotton yards, compresses and warehouses and was shipping goods all over by rail. By then, the city had incorporated and had banks and a school system. When Texas A & M University opened its doors in nearby College Station, population increased even more. The city was barely touched by the Great Depression and has continued to grow and prosper ever since.
Tourism:
You can visit the Brazos Valley Museum of Natural History to see exhibits of both area fossils and live animals. The Bryan Historical District boasts several buildings on the National Registry of Historic Buildings. The Brazos Valley African-American Museum is devoted to the history of African-Americans from ancient civilizations to modern times. In October, there is the Texas Reds Steak and Grape Festival, which features music, arts and food. The Ziegenbock Music Festival is also held in October and features world famous music. Additionally, in October there is the Red Wasp Film Festival. In June, you can stomp grapes at the Messina Hof's Harvest Festival. Brazos Valley WordlFest in held in November and includes vendors and food from over 120 different countries. You can also check out all the attractions and festivals that are held in College Station. There are many golf courses, hiking and baking trails and every outdoor activity you can want around Bryan.