Archer City is a small town located in Archer County, Texas, in the United States. Situated in the northern part of the state, it lies approximately 25 miles southwest of Wichita Falls and about 110 miles northwest of Fort Worth. Archer City covers an area of about 2.1 square miles and has a population of approximately 1,800 residents, offering a quaint and close-knit community atmosphere.
The town is named after Branch Tanner Archer, a leading figure in the Texas Revolution. Archer City is well-known for being the birthplace and home of Larry McMurtry, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author famous for his novels “Lonesome Dove” and “The Last Picture Show.” The town’s connection to McMurtry has made it a cultural landmark, with visitors often exploring the town’s historic sites and McMurtry’s renowned bookstore, Booked Up, which houses an extensive collection of rare and antiquarian books.
Archer City serves as the county seat of Archer County and is an important local hub for administrative and governmental activities. The town boasts several key landmarks, including the historic Archer County Courthouse and the Royal Theater, which featured in the film adaptation of “The Last Picture Show.” The town’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, oil, and local businesses, reflecting its rural Texas roots.
Climate and Weather Overview
Archer City, Texas, experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The region receives moderate rainfall throughout the year, with the wettest months typically occurring in the spring and early summer. The climate is influenced by its location in the southern plains of the United States, where weather patterns can vary significantly between seasons.
| Month | Average Temperature (°F) | Precipitation (in) | Sunny Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 31 – 55 | 1.4 | 17 |
| February | 35 – 60 | 1.6 | 17 |
| March | 43 – 68 | 2.4 | 20 |
| April | 51 – 76 | 2.5 | 22 |
| May | 60 – 83 | 3.7 | 22 |
| June | 68 – 92 | 3.2 | 25 |
| July | 72 – 96 | 1.7 | 27 |
| August | 71 – 96 | 2.1 | 26 |
| September | 64 – 88 | 2.8 | 23 |
| October | 53 – 77 | 3.2 | 22 |
| November | 43 – 66 | 2.0 | 19 |
| December | 34 – 57 | 1.7 | 17 |
January
January in Archer City is relatively mild, with average temperatures ranging from 31°F to 55°F. The town receives around 1.4 inches of precipitation, primarily in the form of rain, although occasional light snow can occur. January typically has about 17 sunny days, with the rest being cloudy or rainy.
The region rarely experiences severe winter weather, but cold fronts can bring brief periods of freezing temperatures and frost.
Recommended Activities: January is a good time for indoor activities, such as visiting the local museum or exploring Booked Up bookstore. For outdoor enthusiasts, the mild weather is suitable for hiking in nearby parks and nature reserves.
February
February continues the mild winter weather, with temperatures averaging between 35°F and 60°F. The town sees about 1.6 inches of precipitation, primarily rain. There are around 17 sunny days in February.
While severe winter storms are uncommon, cold snaps and light frost can still occur. The days begin to lengthen, offering more daylight hours.
Recommended Activities: February is ideal for indoor cultural activities like visiting art galleries or attending community events. Outdoor activities, such as bird watching or walking tours, are also enjoyable during this time.
March
March marks the transition to spring, with temperatures ranging from 43°F to 68°F. Precipitation increases to 2.4 inches, mostly as rain. The town enjoys about 20 sunny days in March.
The weather becomes more variable, with occasional thunderstorms and windy conditions. Early spring flowers begin to bloom, and the landscape starts to green.
Recommended Activities: March is perfect for exploring local parks and nature trails, as well as attending spring festivals and farmers’ markets. It’s also a great time for fishing in nearby lakes and rivers.
April
April brings more consistent spring weather, with temperatures averaging between 51°F and 76°F. The town receives around 2.5 inches of precipitation, mostly rain. There are typically 22 sunny days in April.
April is known for its mild temperatures and occasional thunderstorms, which help maintain the lush green landscapes.
Recommended Activities: April is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and enjoying picnics in local parks. The pleasant weather also makes it a great time for gardening and participating in outdoor sports.
May
May sees a further rise in temperatures, averaging between 60°F and 83°F. Precipitation increases to around 3.7 inches, with thunderstorms being common. The town enjoys about 22 sunny days in May.
The risk of severe weather, including hail and tornadoes, increases during this month. However, these events are generally scattered and brief.
Recommended Activities: May is perfect for enjoying the outdoors, whether it’s hiking, fishing, or attending local festivals. The warm weather also makes it a great time for outdoor concerts and community events.
June
June ushers in the summer season with temperatures ranging from 68°F to 92°F. The town receives about 3.2 inches of precipitation, with occasional thunderstorms. There are typically 25 sunny days in June.
The weather becomes warmer and more humid, with long, sunny days ideal for outdoor activities.
Recommended Activities: June is ideal for water-based activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing. The warm weather also makes it a great time for hiking, camping, and exploring local attractions.
July
July is the hottest month in Archer City, with average temperatures between 72°F and 96°F. Precipitation averages 1.7 inches, with occasional thunderstorms. The town enjoys about 27 sunny days in July.
Heatwaves can occasionally occur, making it important to stay hydrated and seek shade during peak heat.
Recommended Activities: July is great for enjoying water-based activities, including swimming and boating. It’s also a popular time for local festivals, fireworks, and outdoor dining. The warm evenings are perfect for outdoor movies and concerts.
August
August continues the hot summer weather with temperatures ranging from 71°F to 96°F. The town receives around 2.1 inches of precipitation, with occasional thunderstorms. There are about 26 sunny days in August.
The risk of severe weather, including thunderstorms, remains but begins to decrease towards the end of the month.
Recommended Activities: August is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and enjoying the many parks and natural areas. The warm evenings are perfect for stargazing, barbecues, and exploring local nightlife.
September
September marks the transition from summer to fall, with average temperatures between 64°F and 88°F. Precipitation decreases to 2.8 inches. The town experiences around 23 sunny days in September.
The weather becomes more variable, with cooler nights and the first hints of fall.
Recommended Activities: The cooler weather makes September perfect for hiking, attending local fairs, and enjoying the early fall foliage. It’s also a great time for apple picking and visiting local farmers’ markets.
October
October brings cooler temperatures, ranging from 53°F to 77°F. The town receives about 3.2 inches of precipitation, mainly as rain. There are typically 22 sunny days in October.
The weather can be unpredictable, with occasional rain showers and the onset of cooler fall temperatures.
Recommended Activities: October is perfect for visiting pumpkin patches, attending Halloween events, and exploring fall-themed attractions. The crisp air is also ideal for hiking, photography, and enjoying the natural beauty of the season.
November
November sees temperatures drop further, averaging between 43°F and 66°F. The town receives about 2.0 inches of precipitation, primarily as rain. There are around 19 sunny days in November.
Early winter storms can bring rain and occasional frost, especially towards the end of the month.
Recommended Activities: Indoor activities become more popular in November, such as visiting museums, attending community events, and preparing for winter holidays. It’s also a good time for cozy indoor gatherings and enjoying the local culinary scene.
December
December is characterized by cool weather, with temperatures ranging from 34°F to 57°F. The town receives about 1.7 inches of precipitation, primarily as rain, with occasional snow flurries possible. There are typically 17 sunny days in December.
Snow is rare but can occasionally occur, especially in the higher elevations nearby.
Recommended Activities: December is a festive month, with holiday events, light displays, and community gatherings. Indoor activities such as visiting holiday markets, attending concerts, and enjoying warm beverages are popular.