The Dying Towns of Spur and Dickens, Texas

TLDRExplore the fading towns of Spur and Dickens in Texas. With declining populations and abandoned homes, these towns face an uncertain future.

Key insights

🏘️Spur and Dickens, Texas, are small towns with declining populations and abandoned homes.

🌾Nature is reclaiming many parts of these towns as residents move away.

💀The declining populations and aging residents suggest a bleak future for these towns.

👥The towns have unique histories, with famous residents like Red McCombs and Aaron Leam.

💰The cost of living in these towns is significantly lower than the national average.

Q&A

What is the population of Spur and Dickens, Texas?

Spur's population has declined from over 2,000 in 1950 to around 800 in 2022. Dickens has experienced a similar decline, from over 500 in the mid-1900s to under 200 in 2022.

Why are these towns declining?

Factors such as an aging population, lack of job opportunities, and the allure of urban areas have contributed to the decline of Spur and Dickens.

Is there any hope for these towns?

While the future looks uncertain, some residents and organizations are working to revitalize these towns through initiatives like tiny home-friendly policies and historical preservation efforts.

What is the cost of living like in Spur and Dickens?

The cost of living in Spur and Dickens is significantly lower than the national average, mainly due to the lower housing costs.

Are there any notable residents from these towns?

Yes, Red McCombs, a successful businessman who owned the San Antonio Spurs, and Aaron Leam, a Hollywood screenwriter, were born in Spur.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Introduction to Spur, a small town in Texas with a declining population.

02:00Information about the town's notable residents, including Red McCombs and Aaron Leam.

03:00Discussion on the declining population and aging residents in Spur and Dickens.

09:00Exploration of the cost of living and poverty rates in these towns.

17:00Tour of Dickens, another fading town in Texas with abandoned buildings and aging infrastructure.