Did You Know? | Marker 6721 – Garland, Texas

Garland's origins trace back to the 1840s when pioneers established a community called "Duck Creek." A single log cabin served multiple functions including schoolhouse and church. Early economic activity centered on a general store, grist mill, and cotton gin. Railroad expansion transformed the area in 1886. Two rail lines — the Gulf, Colorado & Santa Fe Railroad and the Missouri, Kansas & Texas Railroad — spurred development of new towns including Embree. When a U.S. Post Office opened in 1887, it was named "Garland," honoring U.S. Attorney General A. H. Garland. The communities merged under this new name. Citizens incorporated in 1891, electing M. Davis Williams as the first mayor. The city weathered the Great Depression and experienced rapid industrial and transportation growth after World War II, ultimately becoming a vital chapter in the story of Dallas County's development.