The city of Plano, Texas, is rich in history and personality. Originally settled in the early 1840s, Plano didn’t receive it’s name until later. How the city got its name and more fun facts about Plano can be found below.
How the City of Plano Got its Name
As key buildings were erected and more settlers came to town, the first medical doctor in the area, Dr. Henry Dye submitted a request to name the city Fillmore to honor the U.S. president at the time. Postal authorities denied this request, countering with the name of the original settler of the area, William Foreman. Mr. Foreman wasn’t interested in having his name immortalized, so Dr. Dye suggested Plano.
The word “plano” is Spanish for plain. The doctor had offered a description of the area’s terrain as the city name and it was approved by Postal authorities. Mr. Foreman became the city’s first postmaster.
Plano is the Ninth Largest City in Texas
In 2016, the population of Plano was 275,000 and has a projected population of 280,000 in 2020, making the city the ninth largest in Texas. Even with the continued growth of the city, Plano’s educational system is top notch. The school system scores among the highest in the nation consistently and more than 90 languages are spoken in the schools.
Rated the Wealthiest City in the U.S.
Plano has been rated the wealthiest city in the U.S. by CNN Money magazine in 2006. This could be a result of the many corporate headquarters that have made their home in Plano. With companies like Dell Services, Frito-Lay, Rent-A-Center, Pizza Hut, Cinemark Theatres, and many more creating an environment of wealth and industry. Having the corporate offices in city limits has also been beneficial for Plano, winning it the title of wealthiest city in 2018 by the U.S. Census Bureau. In 2016, Plano was ranked the fifth Best Performing City by the Milken Institute.
Best Place to Live in the Western U.S.
CNN Money Magazine has ranked Plano, Texas, as a best place to live in the Western United States on in 2005, 2006, and 2011. This designation combines many different variables, including school scores, taxation, and outdoor entertainment areas. The city hosts events like the Plano Balloon Festival and Plano International Festival annually, contributing to cultural and international appreciation. Forbes.com selected Plano as one of three cities near Dallas as “Top Suburbs to Live Well.”
The city is also home to over 4,000 acres of open area for the community to enjoy and spend time with family, friends, and neighbors. With 167 miles of bike trails for leisurely riding and 94 miles of trails for walking or running, Plano encourages exercise and activity for a healthy lifestyle.
Plano, Texas, has a rich history dating back to the 1800s with a story of settlers and growth over time. Plan your next road trip to Plano and dig into these engaging facts. You might decide you don’t want to leave.
Image via Flickr by rahman1971 | Used with permission via CC BY-SA 2.0 | Cropped from original