It all started back in July, 1857, when Sam Houston was campaigning for governor. Everyone in San Marcos gathered beneath the shade of a large oak tree to hear Houston speak. Behind him was a Texas flag, handmade by the women of San Marcos. To Sam Houston, that flag was a special kind of hospitality – one that should be celebrated. So the General thanked each of the ladies with a kiss on the cheek.

Back then, this had a touch of impropriety and gave people something to talk about. They remembered it so well that the majestic live oak came to be known as the Kissing Tree. We named our community after the welcoming spirit that inspired this legend. And, as it so happens, we think Kissing Tree is still something to talk about.