Located at the edge of the Galveston metropolitan area, Dickinson began in 1824 when John Dickinson — for whom the town was named — received a land grant from the Mexican...

Located at the edge of the Galveston metropolitan area, Dickinson began in 1824 when John Dickinson — for whom the town was named — received a land grant from the Mexican government and the first settlers arrived. The Dickinson settlement was officially established on Dickinson Bayou shortly before 1850. By 1860, Dickinson became a stop on the Galveston, Houston and Henderson Railroad, which began its development into a leading agricultural service center and major supplier of fruits and vegetables, gaining the reputation as a strawberry capital.

By accessing the Dickinson Bayou at Paul Hopkins Park or a public boat ramp located on Hwy. 3 just south of F.M. 517, visitors may take advantage of recreational activities, including water skiing, kayaking, canoeing and fishing. The Bay Area Harbour Playhouse is a center of community theatrical activity with live productions and classes in performing arts for children, teens and adults.

Annual events include the Dickinson Festival of Lights held between Thanksgiving and New Year’s at Paul Hopkins Park, Fourth of July Old-Fashioned Community Picnic and Parade, and Veterans Day Parade.