MCKINNEY, TEXAS REAL ESTATE
AND COMMUNITY INFORMATION

The historic town of McKinney is home to a unique and rich history. Preservation of the town's history and historic spaces has remained a priority for McKinney throughout the years. Today, McKinney boldly reflects the history which has helped to shape it.

The area, known today as McKinney, was originally settled by pioneering people who sought to claim the region's offer of free land. Colonizers, such as William S. Peters was contracted by the government to entice settlers to the region. With the promise of 640 acres, a cabin, and a gun droves of settlers came to the area that was to become Collin County in 1841. In 1846, Collin County, and several other counties were formed. Collin County was named in honor of Collin McKinney, a pioneer and land surveyor who helped to draft the Texas Declaration of Independence.

McKinney grew slowly at first; Many of McKinney's first settlers found that the native grasses and soil were incompatible with traditional farming techniques and practices. In addition, The muddy roads made the transportation of agricultural goods exceedingly difficult.

In 1872, The Houston and Texas Central Railroad opened up McKinney to an easier and more efficient way to transport goods and services. The development of the rail line stimulated the growth of McKinney's struggling economy and paved the way for the golden era of McKinney. Over the succeeding decades, cotton became a staple of the area's revenue. McKinney's first textile mill, The Texas Cotton Mill Company, opened in McKinney in 1910. The mill had the distinction of being one of two mills west of the Mississippi to manufacture color-print cloth.

The region, rich in natural resources, also produced substantial crops of corn wheat, and oats. Collin County soon became one of the top producers of grains in the state. The higher yields in grain production kick-started McKinney's grain processing industry. Today, some of the area's first production mills are still in operation. McKinney's economic prosperity ushered in a time of rich growth for McKinney. In the 1890s quality homes and shops sprang up throughout McKinney. Many of the town's most impressive historic homes were built during this period.

Today, McKinney still reflects the prosperity of its early years. The town is home to a diverse and thriving economy that is able to support and sustain a top-notch school system, countless parks and green spaces, and an impressive quality of life. McKinney continues to celebrate its roots while accepting opportunities for its continual growth.