Sherman, Texas, is a city with a dynamic history, situated about 60 miles north of Dallas in Grayson County. Its story is one of a frontier town that grew into an industrial and educational center and is now emerging as a key player in the high-tech economy.

History of Sherman

Frontier Beginnings: Sherman was founded in the mid-1840s and was named the county seat of Grayson County. It was named for General Sidney Sherman, a hero of the Texas Revolution. Initially a small settlement, it was strategically located on the Butterfield Overland Mail route, which made it a hub for pioneers, farmers, and traders.

The “Athens of Texas”: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Sherman earned the nickname “The Athens of Texas” due to its numerous colleges and academies. Institutions like Austin College, which relocated to the city in 1876, and others like Kidd-Key College and Mary Nash College, established the city as a major educational center in the region.

A Growing Economy: The city’s economy was initially driven by agriculture, particularly cotton. The arrival of railroads in the 1870s spurred industrial growth, with businesses like flour mills and cottonseed oil factories becoming prominent. The discovery of oil in the 1950s provided another economic boost.

A Dark Chapter: Sherman’s history also includes a tragic and notorious event. In 1930, the city was the site of the Sherman Riot, where a mob burned down the Grayson County Courthouse and lynched a Black man who was a suspect in a crime. This event is a significant and somber part of the city’s past.

Post-War Industrialization: Following World War II, Sherman diversified its economy beyond agriculture. Major companies like Texas Instruments, Johnson & Johnson, and Tyson Foods established operations in the city, making it a significant manufacturing hub.

The “Silicon Prairie” Hub: In recent years, Sherman has been at the center of a new economic boom, often referred to as the “Silicon Prairie.” The area has attracted massive investments from semiconductor manufacturing companies like Texas Instruments and GlobalWafers, which are building new fabrication plants. This has positioned Sherman as a key component of the nation’s high-tech manufacturing and a new destination for economic growth.

Sherman Today

Population and Demographics: With a population of over 45,000, Sherman is the largest city in Grayson County. The city is growing, with a diverse population and a median age similar to the rest of Texas.

Economy: The economy is diverse, with strong roots in manufacturing, particularly in the high-tech and food processing sectors. The influx of semiconductor companies is driving a new wave of job growth and economic development.

Quality of Life: Sherman maintains a blend of small-town charm with access to larger city amenities. It is a short drive from Dallas and a popular destination for outdoor recreation, being located just south of Lake Texoma, one of the largest lakes in Texas. The city’s downtown area is undergoing revitalization, with new shops and restaurants adding to its appeal. It is home to Austin College, one of the oldest and most respected private colleges in Texas.