Copeville
Historical marker location:
KENTUCKY NATIVE JOHN MILES COPE, WHO SETTLED IN COLLIN COUNTY IN 1848 WITH HIS PARENTS AND BROTHER, HELPED ORGANIZE THE COPEVILLE COMMUNITY (ORIGINALLY KNOWN AS BLACK SPOT) IN THE 1850s ON LAND IN THE WILLIS ROBERTS AND HEZEKIAH WALTERS SURVEYS. IN 1878, HE BECAME THE TOWN’S FIRST POSTMASTER. BY 1885, THE COMMUNITY HAD A CHURCH, BANK, COTTON GIN, SAWMILL, FLOUR MILL, SALOON AND A GENERAL STORE THAT ALSO HOUSED A DOCTOR’S OFFICE. IN 1877, THOMAS KING PLATTED THE ORIGINAL TOWNSITE BUT IN 1886, THE COMMUNITY MOVED TO A SITE ONE MILE NORTHEAST NEXT TO THE NEW GULF, COLORADO, AND SANTA FE RAILROAD TRACKS. LOCAL MERCHANT JAMES E. JONES, WHO GAVE THE RAILROAD LAND FOR ITS RIGHT OF WAY AND DEPOT, OPERATED THE TOWN’S FIRST GENERAL STORE AT ITS NEW SITE.
COPEVILLE BECAME THE SHIPPING POINT FOR THE AREA’S FARM PRODUCTS AND BOIS D’ARC TIMBER, VALUED FOR ITS DENSE, TOUGH WOOD. THE KARO SCHOOL, LOCATED AT THE ORIGINAL TOWNSITE, STARTED IN 1895. ALTHOUGH THE COMMUNITY NEVER INCORPORATED, BY THE EARLY 20TH CENTURY, COPEVILLE HAD GROWN TO ABOUT 300 RESIDENTS. THE COPEVILLE SCHOOL OPERATED FROM 1913 INTO THE 1940s. IN 1921, COPEVILLE BECAME ONE OF THE COUNTRY’S FIRST TOWNS TO HAVE A FEMALE POSTMASTER, WHEN ELIZABETH PEARCE TOOK THE POSITION. IN THE EARLY TWENTIETH CENTURY, TWO LOCAL CONGREGATIONS, THE FIRST METHODIST CHURCH OF COPEVILLE AND THE FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF COPEVILLE (ORGANIZED AS MOUNT PLEASANT BAPTIST CHURCH IN 1857) RELOCATED TO THE TOWN. IN THAT ERA, THE TOWN’S BUSINESSES INCLUDED THE CRAFT HOTEL, A DRUGSTORE, A PICKLE FACTORY AND SEVERAL GENERAL STORES. JUST AFTER WORLD WAR II, THE TOWN HAD ABOUT 150 RESIDENTS, TWO CHURCHES, FIVE BUSINESSES AND A SCHOOL. COPEVILLE CONTINUES TO SURVIVE AND GROW
As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.
More history nearby
The Battle of San Jacinto fought on April 21, 1836, was the decisive battle of the Texas Revolution, and led to the capture of Santa Anna and the end of the conflict.
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.
Collin County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey 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.