Fannin County vs. Stephens County
Legislators & Lakes
Today’s match-up pairs a historic county on the Red River with an energy hub in the West Central hills. Fannin County is the home of "Mr. Sam" Rayburn and the newest lake in Texas (Bois d'Arc Lake). Stephens County, home to Breckenridge, is a land of oil booms, ranching, and Hubbard Creek Lake. One is defined by political legacy and water; the other by black gold and resilience.
Fannin County (Population Approx. 36,000)
Fannin County is where Texas political history lives. Bonham was the home of Sam Rayburn, the longest-serving Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives. The county is currently undergoing a massive transformation with the opening of Bois d'Arc Lake, the first major reservoir built in Texas in decades. The vibe is a mix of deep historical pride and new economic opportunity. Challenges include managing rapid development around the new lake and preserving the rural character of the Red River valley.
Stephens County (Population Approx. 9,000)
Stephens County is a testament to the Texas boom-and-bust spirit. Breckenridge was once a roaring 1920s oil town, and the energy industry remains a pillar of the economy alongside ranching and hunting. The landscape is rugged and rolling, drawing outdoor enthusiasts to Hubbard Creek Lake. Residents value their independence, their Friday night football, and their ability to weather economic storms.
Why It Matters
Fannin County is navigating the complex impact of a massive new water infrastructure project. Stephens County is managing the long-term stewardship of energy resources. Both counties illustrate the vital role rural Texas plays in powering and hydrating the state's growing metros.
Why Forward
Forward believes that the historian in Bonham and the driller in Breckenridge deserve a government that plans for the next generation.
In Fannin County, the new lake brings new people and new money. Open Primaries would allow the community to elect leaders who focus on sustainable zoning and infrastructure, rather than partisan gatekeeping. Ranked Choice Voting would help the long-time residents and new lake-house owners find common ground.
In Stephens County, the rural voice needs amplification. Ranked Choice Voting empowers the energy and agricultural communities to support candidates who prioritize rural healthcare and road maintenance, ensuring that the wealth generated in the oil patch returns to the community.
Did You Know…
Bonham (Fannin) is home to the Sam Rayburn Library and Museum, preserving the legacy of the legendary Speaker.
Breckenridge (Stephens) experienced such a massive oil boom in the 1920s that its population briefly soared from 1,500 to 30,000.
Bois d'Arc Lake in Fannin County is a 16,641-acre reservoir designed to supply water to North Texas.
Stephens County was originally named Buchanan County but was renamed in 1861 to honor Alexander H. Stephens, Vice President of the Confederacy.
Bonham State Park features a man-made lake built by the CCC in the 1930s.
Why Texans Love Living Here
Fannin residents love the historical markers on every corner, the new fishing opportunities, and the connection to "Mr. Sam." Stephens locals love the rugged hills, the bass fishing at Hubbard Creek, and the small-town grit that defines Breckenridge.
Key Events That Bring Neighbors Together
Bois d'Arc Festival (Bonham/Fannin): An annual celebration of the local history and the famous tree.
Breckenridge Airshow (Stephens): A popular event showcasing vintage aircraft and aviation history.
Fannin County Fair: A traditional gathering with livestock and pageants.
Frontier Days (Breckenridge): Celebrating the western heritage of the region.
People & Tech Created This
The profiles and shared challenges were gathered from Texas Forward Party supporters and written using ChatGPT and Gemini models to combine verified public data, official county/state sources, and general knowledge from Texas historical and government records:
