Region: Panhandle Plains
In southeastern Young County, Graham was founded in 1872 by Gustavus and
Edwin S. Graham. The Graham brothers were from Kentucky and founded Graham
Brothers Salt Works. In 1874, Young County was organized and Graham became the
county seat. By 1876, the Graham Leader ran its first edition; this
weekly publication is the oldest newspaper in the Northwest Texas region.
Today, visitors like to shop on the historic downtown square and at a growing
number of antique stores. Courthouse square is recognized as the largest
downtown square in America. The city also has one of the few remaining drive-in
theaters left in the state.
History buffs enjoy touring the restored buildings of Fort Belknap, one of
many along the Texas Forts Trail (see NEWCASTLE listing). Fishing, boating and
other water sports draw visitors to Possum Kingdom Lake. Graham Country Club
features a nine-hole golf course, ranked among the best nine-hole courses in the
state according to The Dallas Morning News. Open to the public
Tue.–Sat. 940/549-7721.
Annual events include Art Splash on the Square in May; Red, White and You in
July; Western Heritage Week in October, and Christmas Stroll and Lighted Parade
in December.