Mount Vernon is a community that has learned to change with the times while remaining true to and embracing its past. Mount Vernon was platted in 1849 and grew into a bustling town upon the arrival of the railroad in 1887. As the commercial and shipping center for area farmers, Mount Vernon’s downtown, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, built up around the town plaza and county courthouse. Brick buildings replaced wood frame construction The Galt Livery transitioned into Fred Hogan’s Garage, the downtown lumber yard buildings transformed into a café and dance hall, and the Teague family switched from blacksmithing to the car dealership business. As you drive the Bankhead west along Main Street, take note of the many homes built in the early 1900s, and stop in at the Fire Station Museum to explore historic Mount Vernon.
Gulf Station
201 Holbrook St. (private property)
You’ll find several of these 1920s brick Gulf Stations along the Bankhead. This well-preserved gem still boasts its pressed tin canopy ceiling, its globe light fixtures, and original doors and windows.
More Locations In Mount Vernon
Roadside Park
7571 US 67
For many traveling the Bankhead, roadside parks were perfect picnic spots, especially in areas where restaurants were scarce. Located east of Mount Vernon on Hwy 67, this park was developed in 1939 as part of the Texas Highway Department’s roadside park development program aimed at providing travelers safe places to pull over, rest, and eat on their journeys.
Teague and Son Chevrolet
211 US 67 (private property)
Located in downtown Mount Vernon just off the town plaza, the Teague family moved their Chevrolet dealership to this Moderne Style building in 1949 to meet the growing demand for cars during the dawn of the automobile era. Building materials were scarce post-World War 2, and the roof trusses were constructed of wood instead of the usual metal framing.
The Alp Café
209 US 67
Next door to Teague and Son Chevrolet is the Alp Café. The Alp operated as a café during the 1950s and 60s. It was later incorporated into the operations of the Teague Service Center to the west. It has since re-opened as a café. Stop in for some cake!