Cities and Towns in Dickens County, Texas
Founded in 1876, Dickens County is one of 254 counties in the state of Texas. Historically, Dickens County was formed from Bexar County. The city of Dickens is the county seat. With FIPS code of 125, Dickens County has a population of 1,740 and area of 904 square miles (2,341 km²).
List of all cities in Dickens County, TX alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Afton, TX | 79220 | 806 |
| Dickens, TX | 79229 | 806 |
| McAdoo, TX | 79243 | 806 |
| Spur, TX | 79370 | 806 |
Major Cities and Towns in Dickens County, Texas
Dickens County, located in the west-central Texas region, is known for its rich history, agricultural production, and small-town atmosphere. Established in 1876 and named after Charles Dickens, the famous English author, the county has historically been centered around farming, cattle ranching, and oil production. The towns in Dickens County, though small in population, play a vital role in preserving the rural culture and heritage of the area.
Dickens
General Information
- Area: 0.9 square miles
- Population: Approximately 300 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 79229
- Latitude/Longitude: 33.6054° N / 100.5481° W
City Location and History
Dickens, the county seat of Dickens County, is located in the eastern part of the county. The town was founded in 1878 and named after the famous British writer Charles Dickens. It served as an early center of commerce and government for the region. Initially, Dickens was a stop along the Texas and Pacific Railway, which helped boost the town’s early economy. The town became an important trading hub for surrounding ranching and farming communities. The population grew rapidly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, though it has since declined, reflecting broader demographic trends in rural Texas. Agriculture, particularly cotton farming, was a mainstay of the local economy, with ranching playing an equally important role. Despite its small size today, Dickens has maintained its historic charm and continues to serve as the administrative center for Dickens County.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Dickens is served by the Dickens Independent School District, which includes Dickens High School and Dickens Elementary School. The district provides a close-knit community environment with opportunities for students to engage in extracurricular activities, sports, and academic programs. Key landmarks in Dickens include the Dickens County Courthouse, a historic building that serves as the seat of local government and a symbol of the town’s role as the county seat. The Dickens City Park offers picnic areas, sports facilities, and a space for local events. The Dickens Cemetery is another important historical site that reflects the town’s heritage. The Dickens Museum, located in the former depot building, highlights the town’s history, showcasing artifacts from its founding days, early railway presence, and agricultural heritage. The town also celebrates Dickens Day, an annual event that draws locals and visitors to enjoy food, music, and historical exhibits, reflecting the community’s pride in its history.
Spur
General Information
- Area: 1.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,200 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 79370
- Latitude/Longitude: 33.2541° N / 100.6516° W
City Location and History
Spur is located in the southern part of Dickens County, near the intersection of U.S. Route 84 and U.S. Route 327. Founded in 1908, Spur was initially established as a railroad town and named after the Spur Ranch, which was one of the largest cattle ranches in the area. The town grew quickly due to its proximity to the Fort Worth and Denver City Railroad, which made it an important transportation hub for agricultural goods and livestock. Spur’s early economy was driven by cotton farming, livestock, and trade, which continued to be the primary drivers of its growth throughout the 20th century. Today, Spur remains a small but vibrant community with a focus on agriculture, ranching, and local services. The town is known for its scenic beauty, small-town charm, and dedication to preserving its Western heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Spur is served by the Spur Independent School District, which includes Spur High School, Spur Junior High School, and Spur Elementary School. The school district is known for its community engagement and strong athletic programs. Notable landmarks in Spur include the Spur Historical Museum, which features exhibits on the town’s founding, its role as a railroad hub, and the cultural significance of the Spur Ranch. The Old Spur Depot serves as a historical site that tells the story of the town’s railroad history. The City Park, with its playgrounds, walking trails, and sports courts, provides residents and visitors a place to enjoy outdoor activities. Spur also boasts the Western Days Festival, an annual event that celebrates the town’s cowboy heritage with rodeos, music, and local food. Spur’s First Baptist Church, established in 1910, is another landmark that plays a central role in the spiritual life of the town. Visitors to Spur can also explore the surrounding ranchlands and enjoy outdoor recreation, including birdwatching and hiking.
Afton
General Information
- Area: 0.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 150 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 79220
- Latitude/Longitude: 33.5519° N / 100.5643° W
City Location and History
Afton is a small, unincorporated community located in the northeastern part of Dickens County, Texas. Established in the late 19th century, Afton was initially a stop along the Texas and Pacific Railway, which helped bring settlers to the area. The town was originally known for its agricultural production, with cotton farming and livestock ranching as the primary industries. In the early 20th century, Afton served as a minor trade center for nearby farming communities, though its population has remained small. Over time, Afton’s role as a commercial hub faded, and it became more of a rural community. Today, Afton remains a quiet, unassuming town, with most of its residents working in agriculture or commuting to larger towns for employment.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Afton does not have its own school system, so students typically attend schools in nearby Spur ISD or Dickens ISD. The town’s small size means it has few commercial or recreational facilities. However, Afton Cemetery is a notable historical landmark, marking the town’s early settlers and its agricultural roots. The Afton Community Center serves as the center for local events, gatherings, and festivals. The surrounding ranchland offers opportunities for hunting and wildlife viewing, and Afton’s rural charm attracts visitors seeking a tranquil getaway. The area is also known for its picturesque views of the Texas plains, which provide a backdrop for the town’s quiet, country lifestyle.
McAdoo
General Information
- Area: 0.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 300 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 79243
- Latitude/Longitude: 33.1977° N / 100.4511° W
City Location and History
McAdoo is located in the western part of Dickens County, Texas. The town was founded in 1909 and named after John McAdoo, a railroad executive and Texas politician. McAdoo was initially built as a railroad town, and its location along the Texas and Pacific Railway made it an important stop for both passengers and freight. Like many small Texas towns, McAdoo has a history deeply rooted in farming and ranching, with cotton and cattle being the major industries. Though it was once a bustling center for trade and agriculture, McAdoo has seen its population decline in recent decades, reflecting broader rural depopulation trends. Today, McAdoo remains a quiet town, primarily focused on agriculture and ranching, with most of its residents working on nearby farms and ranches.
Major Schools and Landmarks
McAdoo is served by the McAdoo Independent School District, which includes McAdoo High School and McAdoo Elementary School. The school district is small but offers a range of extracurricular activities and community events that foster local involvement. Key landmarks in McAdoo include the McAdoo City Park, which features picnic areas, walking trails, and sports facilities for local residents. The McAdoo Depot is another historic site that reflects the town’s railroad heritage, and the McAdoo Cemetery holds the graves of many of the town’s early settlers. McAdoo also celebrates local traditions through events such as the McAdoo Harvest Festival, which highlights the community’s agricultural roots and fosters a strong sense of local pride. The town’s rural setting provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the surrounding Texas plains.
