McKinney, Texas Real Estate and Community Information

About McKinney

Everything is bigger and better in McKinney. The town of McKinney is a wonderful place to call home. McKinney, the number one city in the United States, is nationally recognized for its low cost of living, wonderful schools, economic opportunities, community spirit, quality of life, and many wonderful community events throughout the year.

McKinney's downtown area is the focal point of the city. The beautiful city is home to a truly historic downtown. The proud community has invested in the infrastructure to make its downtown a great place to walk, shop and dine. McKinney features Great neighborhoods, historical homes, and a charming family-friendly environment.

McKinney believes that investing in a quality education for all its citizens should remain a top priority for its citizens and community leaders. McKinney's commitment to its schools is apparent throughout the city's many state-of-the-art facilities. The city's schools are ranked highly in US News and World Report. Schools in McKinney also use the most advanced up-to-date technologies available.

History of McKinney

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 a pioneering people who sought to claim the region's offer of free land. Colonizers, such as William S. Peters were 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 mill's 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 1890's 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.

Life in McKinney

The wonderful town of McKinney has been recognized by CNN's Money Magazine as number one on its list of "Best Places To Live." The magazine recognized McKinney as the best place to live in America because of its great opportunities for employment, wonderful schools, low crime rate, and fantastic quality of life. The town has been featured as one of the top five best places to live in America since 2010. It is no secret that McKinney boasts excellent schools, affordable homes, diverse neighborhoods, and great parks and public spaces.

Parks

• A. Hardy Eubanks, Jr.
• Ash Woods
• Aviator
• Bonnie Wenk Park
• Carey Cox Memorial
• Central
• Cottonwood
• Dog Park at Bonnie Wenk Park
• Dr. Charles D. McKissick
• Dr. Glenn Mitchell Memorial
• E.A. Randles
• E.L. Tinker Taylor Memorial
• Erwin
• Falcon Creek
• Finch
• Fitzhugh
• Hill Top
• Inspiration
• Jim Ledbetter
• Katherine B. Winneford
• Mary Will Craig
• Murphy
• North Park
• Old Settlers
• Rowlett Creek
• Serenity
• Tom Allen Jr.
• Valley Creek
• Veterans Memorial Park
• W.B. Finney
• Wattley

Area Events

The town of McKinney offers its residents a wide array of events throughout the year. From monthly socials to community-wide seasonal events, the town is able to offer something for everyone. The town's weekly events include regularly scheduled shows that feature live music, two farmers markets, and several tours of the town's attractions.

Monthly Events

• Art History Series Brown Bag Lunch
• Second Saturday on the Square
• Third Monday Trade Days
• Old Red Lumberyard Junk Market

This vintage shabby chic antique sale and flea market is held monthly on a Friday and Saturday, usually the same weekend as Third Monday Trade Days. The Old Red Lumberyard Junk Market is located at the corner of Louisiana and Throckmorton just east of the historic downtown.

Annual Events Spring

• Krewe of Barkus Mardi Gras Dog Parade
• Music in the Garden and Ladies Night Out
• Bike the Bricks

Summer

• Killis Melton Ice Cream Crank-Off
• Flamefest Soccer Tournament
• Red, White and BOOM
• Mickey Mantle World Series

Fall

• Oktoberfest
• Dinosaurs Live
• Halloween at the Heard
• Scare on the Square
• Legends of McKinney Ghost Tours

Winter

• Dickens of a Christmas
• Believe 1 Mile, 5K and 10K Run
• Holiday Tour of Homes
• Holiday Trail of Lights

Contact A McKinney Real Estate Professional Considering a move to McKinney? Join the many McKinney residents who experience the quality life McKinney is able to provide for its many residents. Contact The Robertson Team and discuss your McKinney real estate options today.