Mount Vernon Downtown Historic District
Roughly bounded by RR tracks, Jackson, Taylor & Holbrook Sts., Mount Vernon, TX Local significance of the district:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2018.
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.
The county was officially established in 1875, and it was named in honor of Benjamin Franklin, one of the founding fathers of the United States. The growth of the county was significantly influenced by the arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s, which brought increased commerce and opportunities for trade. The economy thrived on agriculture with cotton being the most significant crop, but by the early 20th century, dairy farming became a major industry as well.
Franklin County played a role in the timber industry during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The presence of vast pine forests led to the establishment of lumber mills, which helped support the local economy. However, as the demand for timber decreased and the resources were depleted, the industry declined, and agriculture became the primary source of income.
In recent years, Franklin County has embraced its historical and natural attractions, including the Old Jail Museum, which provides insight into the county's past, and Lake Cypress Springs, offering outdoor recreational activities. Today, the county continues to be a rural community with a strong sense of community and a focus on preserving its history while also looking towards the future.
Franklin County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Franklin County, Texas.
- 1837 - Franklin County is established on January 30.
- 1846 - The town of Mount Vernon, the county seat, is established.
- 1850 - The county's population is recorded at 1,695.
- 1887 - The Texas Midland Railroad extends its line through Franklin County.
- 1930 - The Great Depression causes economic hardships in the county.
- 1937 - Franklin County Electric Cooperative is formed to bring electricity to rural areas.
- 1968 - The completion of the Cooper Lake Dam creates Cooper Lake, attracting tourists.
- 1990 - The county's population reaches 8,904.
- 2020 - Franklin County celebrates its 183rd anniversary.