Titus County vs. Somervell County
Manufacturing & Dinosaurs
Today’s match-up pairs an industrial powerhouse in Northeast Texas with a prehistoric wonderland southwest of Fort Worth. Titus County is a hub of manufacturing and lakes, known for building everything from trailers to tank cars. Somervell County is the "Dinosaur Capital of Texas," a small but mighty region home to ancient footprints and nuclear power. One is defined by the spark of the welder; the other by the track of the Acrocanthosaurus.
Titus County (Population Approx. 31,000)
Titus County is where things get built. Mount Pleasant serves as a regional trade center and a manufacturing hub, particularly in the transportation and food processing sectors. The community is surrounded by water-Lake Bob Sandlin, Welsh Reservoir, and Monticello-offering ample recreation. The vibe is industrious and outdoorsy, with a downtown undergoing revitalization. Challenges include workforce development for technical trades and managing rural healthcare access.
Somervell County (Population Approx. 9,500)
Somervell County proves that size isn't everything. As one of the smallest counties in Texas by area, it packs a massive punch with Dinosaur Valley State Park, the Comanche Peak Nuclear Power Plant, and the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center. Glen Rose offers a unique mix of tourism and high-tech energy jobs. Residents love the river valley beauty but face the challenge of balancing heavy tourism traffic with small-town quiet.
Why It Matters
Titus County drives the blue-collar economy of Northeast Texas. Somervell County powers the grid (literally) and preserves natural history. Both counties demonstrate how specialized local economies contribute to the state's overall stability.
Why Forward
Forward believes that the welder in Mount Pleasant and the nuclear technician in Glen Rose both deserve a government that respects their skills.
In Titus County, the industrial base is vital. Open Primaries would allow the diverse workforce to elect leaders who focus on vocational training and economic incentives, rather than partisan distraction. Ranked Choice Voting would help the community find consensus on infrastructure improvements.
In Somervell County, the needs are unique. Ranked Choice Voting empowers the community to support candidates who understand the specific safety and regulatory needs of hosting a nuclear facility while also managing a major state park. It ensures that this small county retains its big voice.
Did You Know…
Dinosaur Valley State Park in Somervell County contains some of the best-preserved dinosaur tracks in the world, visible in the riverbed.
Mount Pleasant (Titus) was named a "Main Street City" and has a vibrant historic district with a sweet tooth (home to Laura's Cheesecake).
Fossil Rim Wildlife Center in Somervell County is a drive-through safari park dedicated to the conservation of endangered species.
Titus County is a major hub for trailer manufacturing, often called the "Trailer Capital of Texas" (a title shared with nearby Lamar).
Comanche Peak in Somervell County is a twin-unit nuclear power plant that powers millions of Texas homes.
Why Texans Love Living Here
Titus residents love the bass fishing, the Friday night lights, and the strong work ethic of the community. Somervell locals love the Paluxy River, the rolling hills, and the thrill of living in a place where dinosaurs once walked.
Key Events That Bring Neighbors Together
Everything Texas Ranch Run (Mount Pleasant): A community race and festival celebrating local heritage.
The Promise (Glen Rose/Somervell): A massive outdoor musical production held annually at the Texas Amphitheater.
Cinco de Mayo on the Square (Mount Pleasant): A vibrant cultural celebration.
Paluxy River Bluegrass Festival (Glen Rose): Bringing music lovers to the river banks.
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:
