General-

Settled in 1845 and the seat of Collin County, both the city and county are named for Collin McKinney, a signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence and a leader in the establishment of the Disciples of Christ (Christian Church) in Texas.   A wide variety of local industries contributes to the city's economy.

Bolin Wildlife Exhibit-

See mounted animal trophies from several states and foreign countries; Mobil Oil Co. memorabilia centered around a turn of the century storefront, along with a 1913 Model - T, 1928 Model A truck and roadster, pioneer life and early transportation exhibits.  Open Mon. - Fri. 9 a.m. - noon, 1 - 4 p.m. 1028 N. McDonald (Texas 5).

Chestnut Square-

Five quaint Victorian and Greek - revival type houses, built between 1853  and 1910, are open Tues. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Mar. - Jun. and Sept. - Nov.   The houses are furnished in period attire.  Just south of the square on Chestnut St.  Admission.

Colin Co. Youth and farm Museum-

Dedicated to preserving Collin Co. agricultural heritage.   Features collection of antique farm equipment and artifacts from North Texas farms from the 1930's.  Open Tues. 1 - 5 p.m.  North on U.S. 75 to U.S. 380, west to F.M. 7461, north on county road 166.  Approximately 4 miles northwest of the city.

Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary-

Natural history exhibits of flora, fauna and geology.  Native live animal exhibits, nature store and classes for all ages.  Nature trails through 275 - acre wildlife sanctuary.  Scenic picnic area.  Open Tues. - Sat. 9.a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sun. 1 - 5 p.m.  South 2 miles on Texas 5; east 1 mile on F.M. 1378. 214/542 - 5566.

North Texas History Center-

Built in 1911 at the cost of $60,000, this handsome building includes walkways and peepholes used by postal inspectors.  Exhibits include Pioneering Roots, Cowboys and Cattle Drives, and Texas involvement in the Civil War, plus traveling exhibits.  Open Monday - Saturday. 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Located at 300 E. Virginia St. McKinney, TX 75069.

Parks-

Wilson Creek Park incorporates Towne Lake Recreation Area, a 20-acre lake with paddleboats, sailboats, food concessions, fishing and sand volleyball.   Park also includes softball and soccer complexes, bike trails and a community center.  Between Eldorado pkwy and Louisiana St. east of U.S. 75.

Finch Park offers tree shaded picnic areas, playgrounds, sport fields, swimming pool and restored historic home of town namesake, Collin McKinney.   South edge of town off Kentucky St.