Van Zandt County vs. Hartley County
Salt Mines & High Plains
Today’s match-up brings us to the "Free State of Van Zandt" in East Texas and the far reaches of the northwest Panhandle. Van Zandt County is known for its salt mines, the famous First Monday Trade Days in Canton, and a spirit of independence. Hartley County, on the New Mexico border, is a wide-open landscape of cattle, corn, and dairy. One is a hub of commerce and minerals; the other is a pillar of agriculture and wide horizons.
Van Zandt County (Population Approx. 60,000)
Van Zandt County prides itself on being the "Free State," a nod to its independent history. Canton serves as a massive draw for tourists with its monthly Trade Days, one of the largest flea markets in the world. The economy is diverse, built on salt mining (Grand Saline), agriculture, and small business. Residents value their freedom and their community traditions but face challenges managing the traffic and infrastructure demands of a popular destination.
Hartley County (Population Approx. 5,400)
Hartley County is big country. Channing and Dalhart (which straddles the county line) anchor a region dominated by large-scale agriculture and dairy farming. The vibe is quiet, hardworking, and deeply connected to the land. The community faces the ongoing struggle of water conservation in the Ogallala Aquifer and maintaining services in a sparsely populated area.
Why It Matters
Van Zandt County is a unique economic engine in East Texas, drawing millions of dollars in tourism. Hartley County is critical to the state's food supply. Both counties demonstrate the need for policies that support diverse rural economies, whether that means road improvements for trade days or water management for feedyards.
Why Forward
Forward believes that the vendor in Canton and the rancher in Channing play vital roles in our economy.
In Van Zandt County, the independent spirit is strong. Open Primaries would resonate deeply here, allowing voters to choose the best person for the job without being beholden to party bosses. Ranked Choice Voting would help the community navigate growth while preserving its unique character.
In Hartley County, the agricultural voice must be heard. Ranked Choice Voting ensures that rural voters can support candidates who understand the specific needs of the High Plains, like rail transport and aquifer protection, without fear of "wasting" their vote. It empowers the Panhandle to stand tall.
Did You Know…
Canton (Van Zandt) hosts First Monday Trade Days, considered the oldest and largest flea market in the United States.
Grand Saline (Van Zandt) sits atop a massive salt dome; the Salt Palace museum is the only building in the world made of pure rock salt.
Hartley County was named for Oliver C. Hartley and his brother Rufus, early Texas legislators and supreme court reporters.
XIT Ranch, once the largest fenced ranch in the world, covered much of Hartley County.
Hartley County is home to the Rita Blanca National Grassland, offering a glimpse of the pre-settlement prairie.
Why Texans Love Living Here
Van Zandt residents love the hustle of Trade Days, the small-town feel of the other weekends, and the fierce independence of their history. Hartley locals love the endless sunsets, the "neighbor-helping-neighbor" attitude, and the deep agricultural roots that define their lives.
Key Events That Bring Neighbors Together
First Monday Trade Days (Canton): A monthly event that transforms the town into a bustling marketplace.
XIT Rodeo & Reunion (Dalhart/Hartley): The world's largest free BBQ and rodeo, celebrating the legendary ranch.
Salt Festival (Grand Saline): Celebrating the town's salty heritage with a parade and pageant.
Hartley County Stock Show: A community tradition supporting local youth.
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:
