How a small Texas town became a surprising backdrop for Hollywood and high-tech innovation

Countries & Cities · Published 15 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Manor, Texas, has evolved from a quiet cotton-farming community into a rapidly expanding suburb of Austin. Beyond its growth, this town has served as a cinematic set for major films and pioneered the use of QR codes to bridge the gap between historical landmarks and modern digital accessibility for its residents.

Originally settled by James B. Manor near Gilleland Creek, the town was formally laid out in 1872 after a donation of right-of-way secured a railroad link to the Texas capital. For much of the twentieth century, however, Manor remained a small city, hampered by devastating fires and the economic decline of cotton production following the arrival of the boll weevil. It was not until the twenty-first century that the city began to experience significant transformation, fueled by its proximity to Austin and the expansion of regional tollway systems.

Manor has gained unexpected fame as a filming location, most notably for the 1993 film What's Eating Gilbert Grape. The town's old water tower, a now-defunct landmark, became central to the film's narrative. This cinematic legacy continued with episodes of Fear the Walking Dead filmed in the area. Beyond its screen presence, the city has pursued a unique technological identity. In a pioneering move, Manor became the first government agency in the United States to implement a QR code program, placing fixed signs across town to provide information to visitors and locals alike.

Today, the city is one of the fastest-growing suburbs in the United States, with a population that reached 13,652 by the 2020 census. This rapid development has brought modern amenities, including the ShadowGlen water park and various high-tech service agreements. Despite this modernization, the city retains its community focus through spaces like Jennie Lane Park, which serves as a hub for local markets and events, reflecting a blend of historical roots and a forward-looking approach to suburban life.

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