Cooke County, Texas
Cooke County sits along the Texas-Oklahoma border, offering a blend of open prairie, wooded landscapes, and classic North Texas charm. Gainesville, the county seat, is well known for its Medal of Honor Host City program and its connection to seven Medal of Honor recipients.
Ranching remains an important part of the local economy, while the equine industry has also become a major attraction, drawing horse buyers and enthusiasts from across the region. Nearby Lake Ray Roberts provides plenty of opportunities for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities.
The county fair is a much-anticipated event each fall, bringing residents together for food, entertainment, and community traditions. Oil and gas also contribute to the local economy.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Cooke County |
| County Seat | Gainesville |
| Population | Approximately 45,000 |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Gainesville, Lindsay, Muenster, Valley View |
| Interstates and Highways | Interstate 35, U.S. Highway 82, U.S. Highway 377 |
| FIPS Code | 48-097 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 898 square miles (875 sq mi land, 23 sq mi water) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Love County, Oklahoma (North), Grayson County (East), Denton County (South), Wise County (Southwest), Montague County (West) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CST) |
| State | Texas |
| Coordinates | 33°38’N, 97°10’W |
| Etymology | Named after William Gordon Cooke, a soldier in the Texas Revolution |
| Major Landmarks | Frank Buck Zoo, Gainesville Historic District, Leonard Park |
