Denton, Texas — A Brief History & 2025 Snapshot
Denton, Texas, has a rich history rooted in the early settlement of North Texas. A Texas land grant led to the formation of Denton County in 1846, and the city of Denton was officially incorporated in 1866. Both the county and city were named after pioneer and Texas militia captain John B. Denton. The arrival of the railroad in 1881 spurred early growth, while education helped set Denton apart: the University of North Texas was established in 1890, followed by Texas Woman’s University in 1901. These institutions would shape the city’s character, drawing students, educators, and cultural contributions that still distinguish Denton.
Today, Denton thrives as a vibrant community on the northern edge of the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex. It is known for its dynamic arts scene, historic downtown square, and quality of life that blends Texan heritage with college-town energy.
Denton is governed under a council-manager form of government, where an elected mayor and six council members set policy, and a professional city manager oversees day-to-day administration.
As of 2025, the mayor of Denton is [Gerard Hudspeth], who leads the City Council alongside council members Vicki Byrd (District 1), Brian Beck (District 2), Suzi Rumohr (District 3 & Mayor Pro Tem), Joe Holland (District 4), Brandon Chase McGee (At-Large Place 5), and Jill Jester (At-Large Place 6).
The City Manager is [Sara Hensley], appointed in 2022, who is responsible for implementing council policies and managing city operations.
Together, Denton’s leaders guide a growing city that honors its historic roots while looking toward a prosperous future.
