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History
in a Pecan Shell
Originally named Blue Prairie, settlement
occurred in the 1870s with a post office opening (under the Monkstown name) in
1878. There was no monastery here, but there was a man called James Monks. It
was Jimmy Monks who donated the land on which the town developed.
Wheels
were turning in the mid 1880s. Gin wheels and millwheels, that is. Midway through
the 1890s, the town peaked with a respectable (for the times) population of 400.
At this apex, Monkstown could (and probably did) boast fifteen businesses! Things
were going well for the country in the 1920s, but Monkstown’s population was slowly
declining. In the late 20s, the town closed its post office and after WWII,
only 70 residents were left.
The 1990 census, as well as the 2000 census
reported an estimated 35 Monkstowners. Monkstown retains the name, but some could
say that the area once again resembles a “blue prairie.” |
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1940s
Fannin County map showing Monkstown
(In NE Fannin County near Lamar County
line.)
Courtesy Texas General Land Office |
Where
to Stay - Monkstown Area Hotels:
Bonham
Hotels | Sherman
Hotels
Texas
Escapes, in its purpose to preserve historic, endangered and vanishing
Texas, asks that anyone wishing to share their local history, stories, and vintage/historic
photos of their town, please contact
us. | |
| Save on Hotels
- Book Here | |
