Thoughts from a future "Winnsboroan"
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8/23/2021
I have lived in DFW for past 7 years, and before that in Tyler traveling the back roads of north east Texas for 11 years as a salesperson. I was always drawn to Winnsboro, as it is nestled amongst rolling terrain and is a cross roads town away from hustle and bustle of interstates.
There is a charming downtown, which seemed to have reached its zenith in the early aughts. My wife and I spent our fourth anniversary here during this boom period, in a really nice historic B&B(still operating), caught a local concert at a live music venue and then dinner at one of many lively restaurants. The town was replete with coffee shops, arts and wine tasting. Much of the businesses died off in early-teens, due possibly to being a bit ahead of its time, capitalizing on its charm without the requisite populace to support the many venues.
Longing for the charm and conservative values of the area, my wife and I purchased land right outside of Winnsboro and plan to retire there in a few years.
In just the past year we have owned the property, we have seen several improvements, and people moving out of DFW and other states looking for a respite away from city life.
Our feelings are mixed obviously, as we like the small town feel, but understand a town thrives from growth. We hope the town retains its small town feel and conservative values which are eroding in the DFW area with west coast transplants. Most "new Texans" we have met in Winnsboro are seeking asylum from west coast politics, and looking for a place that still has conservative American values, so I am hopeful.
Locals are very nice and friendly, and there is an existent arts culture, which is evidenced by the arts center downtown. The Bowry, which was a hub of activity in the early aughts is undergoing a complete renovation and a farmer's market is slated to open later this year, which will be nice.
Only reason I give Winnsboro a four star review instead of five, is because it is in a state of transition. It will be interesting to see what it looks like in a few years. I do hope it stays small, perhaps more of a tourist destination to support local business versus an explosion in population. Time will tell. We look forward to getting out of DFW and being a part of Winnsboro soon!
Vic | Little Elm, TX