The Tonk Crossing community was established in the middle or late 1850s at the crossing of the road from Waco to Gatesville and the road from Belton to Fort Graham.  The two roads also crossed the Middle Bosque river at this point. Nelson Crawford of Coryell City graded the river crossing. There have been many versions of how the community got its name and historians have agreed there are conflicting versions.

In any event, the town was located almost two miles east of its present location. John Mealiss was named postmaster as early as 1871. That was ten years before the railroad was built.  The community had a rather unique local government, six trustees.

In 1881 "Old" Crawford was moved to its present location on the railroad. Crawford soon had a large brick store, established as a branch of S. Amsler Co. of McGregor.

During the years 1880 and 1881, the city of Crawford had its real start. The Santa Fe Railroad owned land for several miles along the tracks and settlers were encouraged to purchase the land from the railroad for their homes. Some half a dozen families bought land for homes, a Church and a school, as well as for their businesses, and the city of Crawford began to grow in its present location.

The earliest people that came to Crawford were from wealthy, well educated families who wished to provide a good education for their children. They recognized the need for a school and sought to provide one. Three of the wealthiest men started the fund for the school by giving $125 each toward the erection of the building. The rest of the community joined them, giving as they were able.  It served as both church and school, as well as the town hall. The first graduating class to be issued diplomas had 13 students, and their exercises were held in the Crawford Tabernacle in 1891.

The present school is regarded as one of the best in McLennan County. It is known not only for its academics but also for its rich tradition in athletics. Crawford High School has an enrollment of approximately 175 and competes in the class AA level in athletics.

Special Thanks to Mrs. Bost for the historical information