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Independence, Texas style: Town of Independence has deep ties to the fight for freedom
By Kenny Graves at KXXV (ABC 25) News
· July 3, 2026
· 2 min read
Independence, Texas: Where the roots of Texas freedom run deep.Watch the full story here: Independence, Texas style: the small Texas town of Independence has deep ties to the fight for freedomThis Independence Day weekend, the small town of Independence, Texas, is a fitting place to reflect on 25...
Key takeaway First settled in 1824 and renamed Independence in 1836, the town's history is woven into the fabric of both Texas and American freedom.
Why this matters in The Waco
The town of Independence, Texas, holds a special place in the hearts of Waco area residents, given its profound impact on the state's history. As the birthplace of Baylor University, Independence has a lasting legacy in the region's education system. The fact that Sam Houston, a key figure in Texas' fight for independence, lived in Independence and was baptized at the Texas Baptist Church, underscores the town's significance in the state's narrative. Moreover, the town's role in supporting the Revolutionary War effort by providing cattle to feed the troops demonstrates the community's long-standing commitment to the principles of freedom. For locals, Independence serves as a poignant reminder of the region's rich history and its ongoing influence on the present. As Waco area residents celebrate Independence Day, they would do well to look to the town of Independence as a symbol of the enduring spirit of freedom that defines Texas.
About this story
Original reporting by KXXV (ABC 25) News . The Waco surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KXXV (ABC 25) News . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 3, 2026 ·
Source: KXXV (ABC 25) News ·
Reading time: 2 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Independence, Texas: Where the roots of Texas freedom run deep.Watch the full story here: Independence, Texas style: the small Texas town of Independence has deep ties to the fight for freedomThis Independence Day weekend, the small town of Independence, Texas, is a fitting place to reflect on 25...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 3, 2026 by KXXV (ABC 25) News and curated for The Waco readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Kenny Graves at KXXV (ABC 25) News. To learn more about how The Waco selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Waco, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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