This Geocache has been approved by the Hays City Store & Ice House. They acknowlege the existence of this cache and even encourage finders to come and visit their restaurant! While you're here, why not stop and grab a drink or a bite. ;)
If you have any questions regarding this cache, feel free to send us a message over Geocaching. For contact with the Hays City Store, the general manager's contact info can be found here:
City History
Hays City was an ambitious idea of a town that was supposed to be the "replacement" for San Marcos as the county seat. Created in 1908 by Hezekiah Williams, he sought to attract settlers by building a store, hotel, stable, church, and much more throughout the area, and even planned a railway that went from Kyle to Hays City. However, his plan failed miserably as almost no settlers moved to the area, despite his best efforts. The project was abandoned and the town remained empty. Nowadays, Hays City is barely mentioned on any maps and no physical remnants remain. Over time, Hays City was forgotten as Buda and Kyle grew nearby. However, one effort has been made to preserve the history of this forgotten town: the Hays City Store, where this cache is hidden. The Hays City Store opened in the 1980s as a gas station and convenience store for the few people scattered around the area, that way people living in the area didn't have to drive all the way into Kyle to get gas or pick up groceries. Over time, the store grew into a full-on restaurant and renamed itself the "Hays City Store & Ice House," until eventually, it turned into what it is today. While the store was not built during the time of Hays City, it serves as a historical marker for the forgotten town.
Congratulations to jcox for the FTF!