Texas History and Genealogy - presented by Genealogy Trails

In the years immediately preceding the period of the Republic of Texas, settlers and traders began migrating to the rolling prairie now included in Grayson County. With a slow but steady increase in population, in the early days of statehood the legislature created (1846) the county out of territory theretofore included in Fannin County.

Prior to the coming of the railroads in the 1870s, the local economy centered upon agriculture. At one time, because of the number of institutions of higher learning, the county seat was known as the Athens of Texas.

Throughout the 19th century, the Indian Territory lay just across Red River from the county. From "Trail of Tears" days and after Oklahoma statehood, the land and people across the river had a prominent impact upon the history of the county.

The county has produced its share of men and women who have risen to national prominence, most notable of whom was General Dwight D. Eisenhower.