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History in
a Pecan Shell
One thing the community
did not need more of was names. The town that would become Needmore
dates from the days of the Republic when it was inhabited, albeit
sparely. When the Jernigan Baptist church was organized around
1850, the community took that name. In 1873 a post office named Pecan
was granted.
The community counted 100 residents in 1882 and it had its own gristmill
at that time. In the mid 1880s the name of the post office was changed
to Needmore. In 1890 the town had three gristmills as well
as a blacksmith, physician, a general store and a cotton gin.
The name Eureka was borrowed after the name of the local school
district. Hopes were high when it was learned the Texas Midland Railroad
was to enter Delta County,
but the town was bypassed when tracks were laid.
The predicted decline set in and the population was halved to 50 by
1900. Then the post office was closed.
In 1949 the local school was consolidated and by the 1960s only a
church was left. There were scattered residences, but no official
count of residents. |
People
Pitchfork Smith
by Mike Cox
When your last name's Smith-no matter your looks or accomplishments-attaining
widespread recognition is challenging. But a common surname can be
overcome with a colorful personality and striking nickname.
It certainly worked for Pitchfork Smith. See
full article |
1882 map showing
Needmore as Pecan
(SW of Cooper ) in Delta
County
Courtesy Texas General Land Office |
Texas
Escapes, in its purpose to preserve historic, endangered and vanishing
Texas, asks that anyone wishing to share their local history, stories,
landmarks and contemprary/vintage/historic photos, please contact
us. |
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