How about we unravel the story behind the Lavon Plaque? This marker stands as a silent witness to the rich history of Lavon. It links us to the early days of this Collin County town.
The Lavon Plaque commemorates the town’s namesake. Lavon Thompson was the son of Elbert C Thompson. Elbert was the town’s first postmaster. The post office opened in 1888.
Before Lavon was Lavon, it was Thompson Switch. This name honored Elbert Thompson. Later, the town decided to honor his son Lavon “Bud” Thompson. Thus, the name changed to Lavon.
This area’s story began long before the name Lavon. Fertile Blackland Prairie soil attracted settlers. Bear Creek provided essential water. The mid-1850s saw the arrival of those seeking new homes.
The St. Louis Arkansas and Texas Railway arrived in 1888. It laid tracks through the area. This railway boosted the community.
By 1910, Lavon’s population reached 300. It started with only about 25 residents in the late 1880s. The railway stop became a hub for farmers.
In 1913, the Daughters of the American Revolution marked a grave. Richard Royal chapter honored John Abston. Abston fought in the Battle of King’s Mountain. He later moved to Texas and was buried near Lavon.
For decades, Lavon’s population remained steady. It hovered around 200 through the 1930s and 1940s. In 1940, five businesses served the residents.
The construction of Lavon Lake in 1952-53 changed the town. Though the population remained stable boaters and fishermen arrived. Picnickers replaced farmers.
Lavon incorporated in 1980. At that time, one business served 306 residents.
The late 1990s and early 2000s brought new growth. Several housing developments doubled Lavon’s population. New businesses arrived after decades of stagnation. An auto repair shop opened. A quick-stop grocery and gas station started serving people. A branch bank and a barbecue restaurant also came to town.
Lavon is now on the cusp of rapid expansion. The Grand Heritage housing development is bringing new homes.
The Central National Road was vital to the area. It was the first major road. It stretched from Dallas County to the Red River. This road connected Collin County to major routes. It facilitated traffic between St. Louis and San Antonio.
Today, the Lavon Plaque stands as a reminder of the town’s journey. It shows us how Lavon evolved. It grew from a small settlement to a growing city. The plaque invites us to remember and appreciate the past. It helps us look forward to the future.