Bonham

Bonham is a county seat in Fannin County, situated about twelve miles south of the Red River in northeast Texas. The city sits on the northern edge of the Blackland Prairie, a region of relatively flat terrain.

The settlement began in 1837 when Bailey Inglish established a trading post originally called Bois D'Arc. It was renamed in 1844 to honor James Butler Bonham, a defender of the Alamo.

The Sam Rayburn House and Library honors a prominent Democratic congressman born here, reflecting his deep roots in the community.

The city is accessed through U.S. Highway 82 and State Highways 78, 56, and 121, which connect it to surrounding regions. These routes provide straightforward drives toward Dallas and the Oklahoma border.

During World War II, the city hosted Jones Airfield, a training facility for American military pilots, alongside a German prisoner-of-war camp. This dual military presence shaped the city's wartime experience.

Location: Fannin County

Inception: 1837

Elevation above the sea: 186 m

Website: http://cityofbonham.org

GPS coordinates: 33.58389,-96.18167

Latest update: December 19, 2025 21:56