Natalia is a city in Medina County, Texas, United States. The population was 1,590 at the 2019 census. It was founded in 1912 and was named after Natalie Pearson Nicholson, daughter of Frederick Stark Pearson, engineer, designer and builder of the Medina Dam.
Natalia – A Town That Continues To Go Forward
Natalia is a small close-knit community of 1,590 that continues to expand both its boundaries and population. In recent years, the City has come a long way from new businesses, to a recent beautification project. A very competent City staff and a City Council made up of “home-grown” representatives make this a great place to put down roots. This is a small Medina County town that continues to work hard, to strive forward and make this a great place to live, raise a family and enjoy beautiful south Texas.
As with any community, there are always a variety of issues to be dealt with when managing growth, but this is a City known for its perseverance. Anticipating growth, the Mayor and City Council keep on top of infrastructure improvement; they are constantly seeking ways to improve the quality of life in Natalia.
The building on State Hwy 132 and Miller Street previously known as the “Old Natalia Store” has been renovated and the Staff moved into their new home in December of 2009. The building was built in the very early 1900s and the exterior has retained its original design with the exception being a nod to energy efficient doors and windows. The high tin ceilings and concrete walls make for a wonderfully efficient building both in sound and temperature. The City now has a prominent position on the main street of the town. Staff is always ready to give a tour of their City Hall.
The Natalia Public Library is located at the corner of 3rd Street and Kearney, just down from the Post Office. This volunteer library was dedicated on December 9th, 2006. The open hours are a bit limited as the costs are supported with voluntary contributions, but with fund raising such as the Bluebonnet Festival and other activities, Staff hopes to increase the open hours. Volunteers are always needed.
Natalia boasts one of the top Little League facilities in the area. With three fields and lights on the center field as well as a brand new building that houses the snack bar, restrooms and a second story with offices and an announcer/score keeper area with a view of the fields. The three fields are: Ernie Rice Tee-Ball Field, Tom Elliot Field (Baseball), and Freedom Field (Softball). This was a longtime dream of many that has become a reality due to the hard work and dedication by a number of area residents as well as donations from a variety of contributors, both individuals and businesses.
New businesses continue to open in Natalia. Along with our gas station/drive thru locations of which there are two, we have 4 mexican restaurants, the Chandelier Rose Boutique, Natalia Thai Restaurant, Security State Bank, CD’s Tire/Automotive Shop, a Dollar General Store, Love’s Travel Station that houses a Subway and Wendy’s, Chubby’s Travel Center that houses Charley’s Cheesesteaks & Wings and the San Juan #2 mexican restaurant and newly opened Loves Tire / Retread Warehouse. We also have several auto repair shops and a custom cabinetry business. Natalia encourages everyone to support the local businesses.
The two subdivisions still growing with the addition of new homes are White Star and Mustang Estates. New street lights have gone in at Mustang Estates. The City has also added utility service of water and sewer to the homes behind White Star as a continuing commitment to service for the community as a whole.
Small, but mighty, this ever growing community is looking forward to a bright future.