Mantua
Historical marker location:MANTUA
ON FEBRUARY 23, 1854, WILLIAM C. McKINNEY, JAMES W. THROCKMORTON, JOHN A. THROCKMORTON, AND JOSEPH WILCOX SET ASIDE TWENTY-FIVE ACRES FOR THE TOWN OF MANTUA, WHICH WAS CONCEIVED AS A SITE FOR MANTUA SEMINARY. PROCEEDS FROM THE SALE OF TOWN LOTS PROVIDED FUNDS FOR THE SCHOOL. THE TOWN PLAT CONSISTED OF FORTY-EIGHT CITY BLOCKS SURROUNDING A TOWN SQUARE. TO HELP ENSURE A PROPER ENVIRONMENT FOR THE SCHOOL, DEEDS FOR TOWN LOTS PROHIBITED GAMBLING, HORSE RACING, PROSTITUTION AND THE SALE OF ALCOHOL.
MANTUA LODGE NO. 209 A.F. & A.M. ORGANIZED IN 1857, AND THE MASONS FIRST MET ON THE SECOND STORY OF WALCOTT’S STORE. A POST OFFICE WAS ESTABLISHED IN MANTUA IN 1858, AND E.B. ROLLINS WAS APPOINTED AS THE FIRST POSTMASTER. ON OCTOBER 21, 1858, McKINNEY, JAMES W. THROCKMORTON AND WILCOX MET WITH MANTUA CITIZENS TO ESTABLISH RULES FOR THE CO-EDUCATIONAL MANTUA SEMINARY, AND A BUILDING WAS CONSTRUCTED JUST OUTSIDE OF TOWN FOR THE USE OF THE SEMINARY AND THE MASONIC LODGE. CLASSES WERE FIRST HELD IN 1860 AND BY 1868, EIGHTY PUPILS WERE ENROLLED. LIBERTY CHRISTIAN CHURCH WAS ESTABLISHED IN 1846 AND A METHODIST CONGREGATION WAS FORMED THE NEXT YEAR.
IN 1872 THE HOUSTON AND TEXAS CENTRAL RAILROAD LAID TRACKS APPROXIMATELY 1.5 MILES EAST OF MANTUA, AND THE NEW TOWN OF VAN ALSTYNE WAS FORMED ALONG THE TRACKS. ALMOST IMMEDIATELY, THE RESIDENTS AND BUSINESSES OF MANTUA RELOCATED TO THE NEW TOWN. MANTUA’S POST OFFICE WAS CLOSED IN 1873, THE MANTUA SEMINARY LAST HELD CLASSES DURING THE EARLY 1880s AND THE CHURCHES RELOCATED TO NEIGHBORING TOWNS. TODAY, ONLY MANTUA CEMETERY AND MANTUA ROAD REMAIN AS SYMBOLS OF THE VANISHED COMMUNITY.
175 YEARS OF TEXAS INDEPENDENCE * 1836-2011
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.
Texas is a great place to be rich and a terrible place to be poor.
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 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.