Dresden, Texas. (original) (raw)

History in a Pecan Shell

In 1836 a trading post was already operating here. Ethan Melton opened the first store in the 1840s when the region was called Spanky. Melton�s store had been a mail drop for locals, but when an application for a proper post office was submitted, it was for the more dignified name of Melton.

The community became known as Melton through 1852 when it was changed to Dresden. The post office closed its doors in 1907.

In 1872, Dresden College was opened just NE of town. The population during the 1890s was around 200 residents.

Dresden had enjoyed being a regional center until nearby Corsicana received a railroad connection. The population in 1939 was estimated at just under 150. It has since declined to a mere 25 � a number used since the late 1950s.

A large cemetery with multiple entrances
Photo courtesy Barclay Gibson, August 2013

Another gate for Dresden Cemetery
Photo courtesy Barclay Gibson, August 2013

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