Gilpin, Texas, Dickens County. (original) (raw)

History in a Pecan Shell

The community was originally named Poet, Texas when the post office first opened there in late 1908. Within a year it was renamed to honor county judge and early settler William B. Gilpin. Since Mr. Gilpin himself was the first postmaster, there may have been some favoritism in submitting the new name.

In 1909 the Stamford and Northwestern Railroad arrived, making Gilpin a stop. Early population figures aren�t available but shortly after WWII there were 25 residents served by a single store.

In 1954 the post office was moved to Spur. Gilpin was removed from most maps but still appears on others.

1920s Dickens County map showing Gilpin
(Near Kent County line)
From Texas state map #10749
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 recent or vintage photos, please contact us.