Cities and Towns in Morris County, Texas
Founded in 1875, Morris County is one of 254 counties in the state of Texas. Historically, Morris County was formed from Titus County. The city of Daingerfield is the county seat. With FIPS code of 343, Morris County has a population of 12,030 and area of 254 square miles (658 km²).
Major Cities and Towns in Morris County, Texas
Morris County, located in the northeastern part of Texas, features several small towns and communities with rich histories rooted in agriculture, railroads, and the oil industry. Below are details about the prominent towns in the county.
Daingerfield
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 3.2 square miles
- Population: 2,500 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 75638
- Latitude: 33.1389° N
- Longitude: 94.8881° W
City Location and History
Daingerfield is located in the northern part of Morris County, roughly 20 miles southeast of Mount Pleasant, Texas, and serves as a central hub for the surrounding rural areas. The town’s origins date back to the mid-19th century when settlers moved to the area in search of fertile land for farming and timber. The community was named after the Daingerfield family, who played a key role in its early development. Daingerfield was officially established in the 1870s and became a vital point along the Texas and Pacific Railway, allowing it to grow as a trade and transportation center.
The town saw rapid growth in the early 1900s with the development of local industries, particularly agriculture, timber, and, later, oil. By the 1930s, Daingerfield had firmly established itself as a small but thriving town with a diverse economy. In recent decades, however, Daingerfield has faced the challenges of rural economic shifts, but it remains a key part of Morris County with a focus on small businesses, education, and community life.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Daingerfield is served by the Daingerfield-Lone Star Independent School District, which includes Daingerfield High School and Daingerfield Elementary School. The town’s educational system is an integral part of the community, offering academic programs and extracurricular activities for students of all ages.
Prominent landmarks in Daingerfield include the historic downtown district, which has several buildings from the early 20th century that reflect the town’s growth during the railroad era. One of the most notable sites is Daingerfield State Park, a popular location for fishing, hiking, and camping. The park, which spans over 500 acres, is known for its scenic lake and lush pine forests, attracting visitors from both near and far. Additionally, the town celebrates local events such as the Daingerfield Rodeo, which brings together families and visitors to enjoy the region’s cultural heritage.
Naples
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 2.0 square miles
- Population: 1,700 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 75568
- Latitude: 33.1680° N
- Longitude: 94.7817° W
City Location and History
Naples is located in the southwestern part of Morris County, approximately 12 miles south of Daingerfield and 20 miles west of Mount Pleasant. The town was founded in the 1850s, originally known as a settlement for early pioneers attracted by the fertile land and timber-rich forests. Early settlers in the area were primarily involved in agriculture, including cotton farming, and later, timber harvesting, which played a major role in the town’s economic development.
Naples has seen its fair share of challenges over the years, including the effects of both the Great Depression and rural depopulation trends in the late 20th century. Despite these difficulties, Naples remains an active community, with a close-knit population and a focus on preserving its heritage while adapting to modern times. In the mid-1900s, the introduction of local oil fields helped give a boost to the area’s economy. The presence of these industries and the town’s agricultural base continue to support Naples today.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Naples is served by the Naples Independent School District, which provides educational opportunities for students from elementary through high school. The district is a vital part of the town, and the schools play a significant role in fostering community spirit through various extracurricular programs.
Key landmarks in Naples include the Naples City Park, which features recreational facilities like sports courts, picnic areas, and walking trails, making it a popular spot for families and visitors. The town also hosts local events such as the annual Naples Fall Festival, celebrating the area’s agricultural roots and community spirit. Naples is also home to several historic homes and buildings that reflect its 19th-century heritage, many of which are still in use today.
Lone Star
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.6 square miles
- Population: 1,200 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 75668
- Latitude: 33.1242° N
- Longitude: 94.7223° W
City Location and History
Lone Star is located in the central portion of Morris County, situated along U.S. Highway 259, approximately 10 miles north of Daingerfield. The town was originally settled in the late 1800s, and like many small towns in East Texas, it grew as a result of the timber and agricultural industries. In the early 20th century, Lone Star became known as a key center for oil production, which helped it thrive economically during the Texas oil boom of the 1930s.
Lone Star’s economy has traditionally been driven by agriculture, timber, and oil, although it has increasingly turned toward tourism and local businesses in recent years. The town has remained relatively small but continues to serve as a local trade center for surrounding rural communities. The history of Lone Star is deeply intertwined with the natural resources of the area, and this legacy is still visible in the town’s industries and landmarks.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Lone Star is served by the Lone Star Independent School District, which provides K-12 education to local students. The school district is the cornerstone of the town, with a strong academic reputation and a range of extracurricular activities, including sports and arts programs.
Landmarks in Lone Star include the iconic Lone Star Lake, a popular spot for fishing, boating, and outdoor activities. The lake and its surrounding park are a major draw for visitors from the nearby towns. Additionally, Lone Star has several historic buildings that showcase the town’s early 20th-century development, including the old oil production facilities that once powered the local economy. Local events such as the Lone Star Rodeo and the Annual Christmas Parade foster a strong sense of community and celebrate the town’s history and culture.
