New housing, he said, pops up in the traditional neighborhoods surrounding downtown on vacant lots that are available. The effect of housing staying in the traditional neighborhoods is that it preserves the square, which is within walking distance of most anywhere, as the focal point of the city. Ms. Nicholson, who is president of the local historical society, said she and her husband are restoring a 1913-vintage home that has been home to his family, one of the towns oldest, for generations. They chose to invest in their businesses and home here because of the atmosphere and what she said are exemplary schools. Volunteers built the library, the community center and the senior center, Mr. Crump said.
Volunteers take care of the city park.
Volunteers organized and pursued the state's Main Street City designation, which it was awarded this year. That means low-cost loans, grants, and technical assistance are available to building owners for restoration of Farmersville's historic structures. Several of the buildings on the square are vacant, some used only for storage. But others are vibrant businesses, and restoration projects are visible. Amy Joy Warner, the Main Street program's director, said besides McKinney, Farmersville has perhaps the finest historic downtown in the area.