County History

How Gregg County got its name

Gregg County was created in 1873 and named after John B. Gregg, a Confederate general killed during the Civil War.

The Texas Legislature created Gregg County on April 12, 1873, carving it from southern Upshur County. Lawmakers first called it Roanoke County, but changed the name to honor John B. Gregg, a Confederate general who died in combat. Longview, already established as a railroad town since 1870, was chosen as the county seat.

Before the county was formed, the area was home to Caddo people and later Cherokee immigrants, who were removed in 1839. Anglo settlers moved in after Texas statehood in 1845. Early settlement depended on cotton farming and timber. The Handbook of Texas (tshaonline.org) is the authoritative source for the county's history.

Source to confirm: Handbook of Texas Online — Gregg County

More Gregg County notes

Property Tax Basics

Who values your property for taxes in Gregg County

The Gregg County Appraisal District (GCAD) sets the value of every taxable property in the county each year.

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Homestead Exemption

Lower your tax bill with a homestead exemption

If your home in Gregg County is your primary residence, you can apply for a homestead exemption that cuts your taxable value.

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Agricultural Use

Ag valuation can cut taxes on rural Gregg County land

Land used for farming, timber, or beekeeping in Gregg County can be taxed on its productive value — not its market value — which can mean much lower taxes.

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Tax Rates

Gregg County has many taxing units — your bill depends on where you live

Your property tax bill in Gregg County is the sum of rates from every taxing unit whose boundary includes your address.

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