Historical Marker

Greenville

Historical marker location:
2821 Washington St., Greenville, Texas
( at Municipal Building)
Marker installed: 2001
Marker size: 27" x 42"

In 1846, the Texas legislature created Hunt County and specified that Greenville would be the name of the county seat, honoring Texas War for Independence veteran Thomas J. Green. Voters ultimately selected this location, on land donated by Tennessee surveyor McQuinney Howell Wright, for the new community of Greenville. The townsite was platted in May 1846 and the first lots were sold at auction the following January, although Wright did not file the deed officially conveying his land until March 22, 1850.

Albert G. Hamilton served as first mayor after the town incorporated in 1852. Unlike most north central Texas counties, Hunt County voted in favor of secession during the national crisis in the 1860s. Economic hardship, occasions of violence, and occupation by federal troops characterized the Civil War and Reconstruction period in Greenville. The arrival of the Missouri, Kansas and Texas railroad in October 1880 was a watershed in Greenville's history. The railroad provided cotton farmers with easier shipping access, and cotton production and processing became major economic activities. New businesses and service industries, including banks, hotels, street cars, and the state's first municipally owned electric utility, developed to serve the growing community.

Greenville was home to Majors Army Air Field and three colleges in the 20th century. Its location at the crossroads of major state and national highways helped Greenville develop over the years to become an industrial and trade center in northeast Texas. (2001)

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.

cities and towns
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
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.
Texas random facts
Hunt County, Texas is located in the northeastern part of the state and has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. The area was originally inhabited by the Caddo Native American tribe, who resided in the region for centuries before European settlers arrived.

The first European settlers arrived in the early 1800s, attracted by the fertile land and proximity to the Trinity River. The county was officially established in 1846 and was named after Memucan Hunt, who played a significant role in the Republic of Texas. The county seat, Greenville, was named after Thomas J. Green, a prominent lawyer and politician.

In its early years, Hunt County thrived on agriculture, with cotton being the primary crop. The county's economy boomed with the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century, which facilitated transportation and boosted trade and commerce.

Over the years, Hunt County experienced growth and development, and the economy diversified. In the 20th century, industries such as manufacturing, retail, and healthcare emerged, contributing to the county's economic stability. The county also saw an increase in population, with Greenville becoming the largest city in the area.

Today, Hunt County is known for its vibrant community, rich cultural heritage, and natural beauty. It continues to be a hub for agricultural production, while also offering residents and visitors a wide range of recreational activities, historical sites, and local attractions.

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

  • 1839 - Hunt County is established on April 11, named after Memucan Hunt Jr., the first Republic of Texas Secretary of the Navy.
  • 1846 - Bonham is selected as the county seat.
  • 1850 - Hunt County's population reaches 1,914.
  • 1858 - Greenville becomes the new county seat.
  • 1861-1865 - Hunt County residents participate in the Civil War, with many serving in the Confederate military.
  • 1872 - The Texas and Pacific Railway arrives in Greenville, bringing economic growth to the area.
  • 1895 - A devastating fire destroys the Hunt County Courthouse in Greenville.
  • Early 1900s - Cotton and cottonseed oil continue as major industries in the county.
  • 1940s-1950s - Oil discoveries and production boom in Hunt County.
  • 1980s-present - Hunt County experiences continued economic growth, diversifying its industries and expanding its population.