General-

San Patricio county seat established in 1885 as a station on the San Antonio and Aransas Pass Railroad.  Greatest population surge came in 1909 when several large ranches divided into smaller farms.  The resulting diversity of agriculture is still apparent.  Sinton has a small downtown park with a picnic area as well as 300-acre Rob and Bessie Welder Park with a playground, golf, tennis, a swimming pool, and a small lake.  Sinton is east of U.S. 181 north.

Welder Wildlife Refuge-

Largest privately endowed wildlife refuge in the world; the provisions for the sanctuary were made in rancher Rob Welder's will.  The acreage and a large administration - museum building occupy a portion of the Welder ranch, which was established from a Spanish land grant more than 150 years ago.  Tours on Thurs, 3 p.m.  Group and special tours may be requested from tour director, at 512/364 - 2643.   The refuge is located north of the city off U.S. 77.