Sherman: Not the Tank, the Texan Town
So, you’re wondering how Sherman, Texas, got its name, huh? Well, buckle up, because this is a tale as old as time... or at least as old as the Texas Revolution.
A Name with a Story
You might be thinking, “Sherman? Like the tank?” And you’d be half-right. The town and the tank share a namesake: General Sidney Sherman. But before you envision a Wild West showdown involving tanks and six-shooters, let's clear things up. No tanks were harmed in the naming of Sherman, Texas.
General Sherman was a bonafide Texan hero. He fought alongside Sam Houston at the Battle of San Jacinto, the showdown that basically said, "Howdy, Mexico, Texas is out!" So, when it came time to name the new county seat of Grayson County, the folks decided to honor this badass general. And thus, Sherman, Texas, was born.
More Than Just a Name
Now, you might be wondering, "Is that it? That's kinda boring." Well, fear not, history buff. Sherman, Texas, has a lot more going on than just a cool name. It's been called the "Athens of Texas" because of its love affair with education. Plus, it's got a rich history, from the Wild West days to its role in the Civil War.
But let's be real, the real draw of Sherman is probably its delicious barbecue and the fact that it's a stone's throw away from Lake Texoma. So, while the name is a nod to a brave general, the city itself is a whole different kind of hero.
How to Become a Sherman Expert
- How to pronounce Sherman correctly: It's "Shear-man," not "Sher-man." Trust us, the locals will appreciate it.
- How to impress your friends with Sherman trivia: Drop some knowledge about General Sidney Sherman or the fact that Sherman was once a major cotton-producing hub.
- How to plan a trip to Sherman: Start by checking out the local barbecue joints, then hit up the historic downtown area.
- How to find the best barbecue in Sherman: Ask a local. Seriously, they'll have strong opinions and you'll want to listen.
- How to appreciate the history of Sherman: Visit the Grayson County Historical Society Museum or take a walking tour of the downtown area.