National Register Listing

McKinney Residential Historic District

Roughly bounded by W. Lamar, N. Benge, W. Louisiana, & N. Oak, McKinney, TX
The McKinney Residential Historic District includes the city's most intact historic residential neighborhood. Most of the dwellings were built in the late nineteenth or early twentieth centuries, and only a small number of post-1937 structures are found within the district. Some of the town's most outstanding examples of residential architecture can be seen in this area. Because of its location near the city's commercial center, this neighborhood attracted a large number of McKinney's wealthiest and most prosperous citizens, many of whom were involved in retail or commercial trade. Among the more important were merchants Charles and John Heard, J.D. Stiff, and E.A. Newsome. The majority of the town's professional class also resided in this neighborhood, including Gideon Abernathy, Fred Emerson, Dr. O.H. Kirkpatrick, Dr. W.T. Hoard, and others. Of the 115 structures in the district, 91 are classified as contributing to the historic character of the district.

The neighborhood evolved slowly over a long period of time and presents a variety of architectural styles and types. This pattern of development is indicative of the relative stability of the town's growth. Unlike other towns of comparable size and age in the region -- Waxahachie for instance -- McKinney avoided the pitfalls of a boom-and-bust economy, which is most often characterized by a period of intense short-term speculation, followed by a sharp downturn in activity.
Local significance of the district:
Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1987.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

Texas is known for its barbecue, and one of the most famous barbecue restaurants in the state is Kreuz Market in Lockhart. The restaurant has been in operation since 1900 and is still family-owned.
Texas random facts
Collin County, Texas, boasts a captivating history that spans generations. The region was initially home to Native American tribes before European settlers arrived. In the mid-1800s, as pioneers and immigrants ventured into the area, Collin County experienced remarkable growth and development.

Established in 1846, Collin County derived its name from Collin McKinney, a prominent figure in early Texas history and one of the five drafters of the Texas Declaration of Independence. The county played a significant role in the state's development during its early years.

Throughout the 19th century, Collin County prospered due to factors like the expansion of railroads and the establishment of agricultural communities. Cotton farming became a key industry, and towns such as McKinney, the county seat, flourished with commercial and cultural activity.

In the 20th century, Collin County continued to evolve. The discovery of oil, the growth of suburban areas, and the establishment of technology companies fueled its economic development. The county transformed into a thriving and diverse region with a robust economy encompassing sectors like technology, healthcare, and finance.

Today, Collin County stands as a testament to its rich heritage. With its picturesque landscapes, historic downtowns, and vibrant communities, the county has become an attractive destination for residents and businesses alike. Collin County embraces its history while embracing the opportunities of the present, maintaining its position as a dynamic and prosperous part of the great state of Texas.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Collin County, Texas.

  • Pre-19th Century: The area that would become Collin County was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Comanche.

  • 1846: Collin County was established shortly after Texas joined the United States as the 28th state. It was named in honor of Collin McKinney, a pioneer and one of the signatories of the Texas Declaration of Independence.

  • Mid to Late 1800s: Collin County experienced rapid growth and development, primarily fueled by the arrival of European-American settlers. Agriculture, particularly cotton farming, became a significant economic driver in the region.

  • 1872: The city of McKinney was named the county seat, named after Collin McKinney. It grew into a prominent center of commerce and government in Collin County.

  • Early 1900s: Collin County continued to thrive, and communities within the county flourished. The growth of railroads, such as the Texas Electric Railway, further facilitated trade and transportation in the region.

  • Late 20th Century: Collin County experienced significant suburbanization and population growth, driven by its proximity to Dallas. The county became an attractive destination for families and businesses seeking a balance between urban amenities and a suburban lifestyle.

  • 21st Century: Collin County has continued to expand and diversify economically. It has become a hub for technology, telecommunications, healthcare, and other industries. The county maintains its rich agricultural heritage while embracing modern advancements.