Overview
Gregg County is a county in the U.S. state of Texas with Longview as its county seat and principal city. Located in the Piney Woods of East Texas, the county combines small-city industry, suburban neighborhoods and rural forestland. At the 2010 census the population was about 121,730. For official county services and administrative contacts see the county's official pages and for general county information consult Gregg County information.
Geography and communities
The landscape is typical East Texas: pine and mixed hardwood forests, gently rolling terrain and small streams. Interstate 20 is the main east–west corridor through the county and links Longview to larger metropolitan centers. Major communities include Longview and Kilgore, together with smaller towns, suburbs and unincorporated places. Regional planning and map resources can be found via regional maps.
History and development
Settlement in the area expanded in the 19th century and the county grew more rapidly after the discovery of oil in the East Texas oil field in the early 20th century; that boom brought significant economic change and population growth. The county is named for John Gregg, a figure from Texas history. Local museums, archives and historical societies preserve records of the county’s development; see local history guides at local history resources.
Economy, education and culture
Gregg County's economy blends energy, manufacturing, retail and services. The presence of oil influenced industrial growth, while more recent decades have seen diversification into manufacturing and healthcare. Higher-education and technical programs are available locally, including community and technical colleges that serve the region. Cultural life is supported by museums, performing arts venues, parks and seasonal festivals; community calendars and civic organizations list events on local portals such as community links.
Government and notable facts
County government operates from the Longview courthouse and administers courts, public safety, elections, land records and other services. Gregg County cooperates with neighboring counties on transportation and economic development matters and maintains public parks, libraries and community services. The county’s mix of urban, suburban and rural areas reflects its historical ties to forestry and oil-era expansion as well as ongoing economic change.
- County seat: Longview
- Region: East Texas / Piney Woods
- Notable towns: Longview, Kilgore
- Population (2010): about 121,730