The Old Collins County Courthouse
by VeronicaG
The Old Collins County Courthouse is a three story structure, which was redesigned in the Neoclassical Revival style in 1927.
Architects of this style were inspired by the World Columbian Exposition in Chicago in 1893, which had a classical theme and the classically inspired architecture of Andrea Palladio. This architect inspired many English and American architects of the 18th and 19th centuries.
Neoclassical is known for its monumental buildings using giant pedimented porticoes, columns and elaborate cornices. It is said that this style brings forth the dignity called for in public buildings.
The original facade of the building created in 1876 was a Second Empire style. There are some people who think this style incorporated more beauty and grace than the present Neoclassical Revival design and regret the change.
The old Collins County courthouse is no longer being used for municipal purposes, but contains a theatre and rooms to rent for special occasions. The theatre has a wonderful old organ that accompanies silent films on special nights. A new government building has been erected.
Location
by ATXtraveler
McKinney is located 45 miles from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, and 35 miles from Dallas' Love Field. Its neighboring cities are Frisco (West), Allen (South), Princeton (East) and Melissa (North). It is roughly 40 miles from downtown Dallas, and 32 miles east of Denton, TX. If travelling from downtown Dallas, take Highway 75 north. If travelling from DFW Airport, there are two convienent paths, one on Highway 121 (under construction) or Highway 635 East to Highway 75 North. Public Transportation to McKinney is difficult, so driving is your best option.
Old Collin County Prison
by VeronicaG
As my husband and I were familiarizing ourselves with McKinney's streets, we discovered the Old Collin County Prison. As we rounded a corner, it's white stones of ashlar limestone gleamed in the sun.
The prison is an example of the High Victorian Italianate style, constructed in 1880 and designed by architect, F. E. Ruffini. The structure was used as a prison for ninety-nine years. Originally built as a "t" plan, it was modified by adding a rear addition in the 1920's and renovated in 1938.
This building is one of the few remaining designed by Mr.Ruffini, who was apparently used quite frequently in Texas.
The plaque on the old prison noted its' "bracketed cornice and arched windows". I imagine this is one of the reasons it has been used as a movie location by Hollywood filmmakers. It is currently housing a business at 115 Kentucky Street.
Info. take from Downtown Historic Walking Tour of McKinney,Texas
Golf Club at McKinney
by keeweechic
McKinney has several fine golf courses. The ‘Golf Club at McKinney’ is one of them. It has a large clubhouse with a high-tech exercise facility as well as three swimming pools and excellent practice facilities.
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Lake Lavon
by btex
Lake Lavon isn't the greatest lake in the world. But, it's only a 20-30 minute drive from McKinney (to the southeast,) so that's a good thing. It's another Texas lake made by the army corps of engineers (I think that the only naturally formed lake in Texas is Caddo Lake.) The water isn't very clear - there are old, dead trees sticking up out of the water...and I wouldn't eat any fish from that lake...even though the fishing is supposed to be pretty good: catfish, crappie - I knew someone who caught an alligator gar in Lavon - those things have sharp teeth! There is a hiking/horse riding trail, and a few parks that can be used for picnics or whatever.
http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/fish/infish/lakes/lavon/lake_id.htm
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A lush garden
The Garden Club Tour
Cadillac Pizza Pub at night
Smitten
