Region: Gulf Coast
Located at the edge of the Galveston metropolitan area, Dickinson began in
1824 when John Dickinson—for whom it was named—received a land grant from the
Mexican government, and the first settlers arrived. The settlement was
officially established on Dickinson Bayou shortly before 1850. By 1860, it
became a stop on the Galveston, Houston and Henderson Railroad, which began its
development into a leading agricultural service center and major supplier of
fruits and vegetables.
Visitors may access Dickinson Bayou at Paul Hopkins Park or by a public boat
ramp on Texas 3 just south of F.M. 517. Recreational activities include water
skiing, kayaking, canoeing and fishing. The Bay Area Harbour Playhouse is a
center of community theatrical activity with live productions and classes in
performing arts.
Annual events include the Dickinson Festival of Lights held between
Thanksgiving and New Year's at Paul Hopkins Park, Fourth of July Old-Fashioned
Community Picnic and Parade, and Veterans Day Parade.