Gratis, Texas, Orange County. (original) (raw)

History on a Pinhead

The site of Gratis looked perfect for development. The 20th Century had just begun and the railroad (the Orange and Northwestern) was already in place. A Dallas company platted the town and began selling lots in 1909. But the proximity to the county seat may have discouraged buyers. The post office, which had opened in 1910 closed within two years and Gratis never developed beyond a few households.

Orange County 1920s Map showing Gratis
(Above "G" in "ORANGE")
From Texas state map #10749
Courtesy Texas General Land Office

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