Macey, aka Macy, Texas, Brazos County ghost town. (original) (raw)

History in a Pecan Shell

Named for Indianan William Macy, who, in 1869 bought a piece of property here. According to legend, Macy was the uncle of outlaws Frank and Jesse James. It is said that Frank and Jesse visited Macy when things got too hot in Missouri.

The community gained a reputation as a pretty tough town. Nevertheless, one Sam Lipscombe saw the community needed a store and opened one here in 1870. The post office opened a short time later - operating out of the store.

In the mid 1880s, Macey had a gristmill, two cotton gins and the store to serve the 150 residents. Amenities included a school and a church.

By 1915, the store had a rival although the population had declined to a mere 60 residents. A doctor opened shop in Macey around that time, but whatever happened after that is largely forgotten.

Population figures aren't available for later years and the community was recognizable only by its church and cemetery. The town has been dropped from most maps.

Photographer's Note:
Photo of the Old Macey road sign, "the only vestige left of the community."

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