The area that would become Addison, Texas, was settled as early as 1846.
The Origins of Addison
The rich history of Addison, Texas, traces back to its early days within what was known as Peters Colony. The initial groundwork for the town's development was laid when settlers began establishing themselves in the area. A significant milestone occurred in 1846, marking the earliest recorded settlement. It was in this year that Preston Witt, one of the first recorded settlers in the Addison area, built his house on White Rock Creek. This act of settlement by pioneers like Witt laid the foundation for the community that would eventually grow into the town of Addison.
Key Aspects of Addison's Early History
Understanding the beginnings of Addison involves recognizing several foundational elements:
- Peters Colony Connection: The land where Addison developed was initially part of the larger Peters Colony, an empresario grant that encouraged settlement in Texas.
- Initial Settlement Year: While an official "founding" date for the municipality might be later, the area's genesis as a populated place is definitively linked to the year 1846.
- Pioneer Settler: Preston Witt holds a notable place in Addison's history as one of the very first recorded individuals to settle in the area. His establishment of a home marked a crucial step in the region's development.
- Geographical Significance: Witt's choice to build on White Rock Creek highlights the importance of natural resources, like water access, for early settlers in establishing communities.
These early settlements were the seeds from which the modern Town of Addison grew, transforming from a sparsely populated frontier into a vibrant community.
