National Register Listing

Fairview H&TC Railroad Historic District

About 1/4 mi. W of St HWY 5 on Sloan Creek & the former Houston & Texas Central Railroad tracks, Fairview, TX
The Houston and Texas Central Railroad Historic District in Fairview, Collin County, Texas, is a district containing a stone bridge and a brick bridge built by the Houston & Texas Central (H&TC) Railway Company beginning circa 1873, remnants of bridges built by the Texas Traction Company in 1908, and a 1915 stone dam built to create a swimming lake. This particular route ran between Denison near the Red River through Fairview and Dallas, linking to Houston and Galveston on the Gulf coast. The property remained in operation as a railroad alignment until 1988. The district is nominated to the National Register of Historic Places under Criterion A in the areas of Transportation and Settlement, at the local level of significance for its association with the role of the railroad in the development of the Town of Fairview in the 1870s. The period of significance begins in 1873 with the construction of the railroad line and ends in 1948 when the interurban line was abandoned.
Local significance of the district:
Transportation

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2010.

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.

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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.