Gainesville is located approximately 67 miles north of Dallas at the geographic center of CookeCounty along Interstate 35. The town, with a population of about 16,000 residents, began as the Peters Colony in 1841 under the Republic of Texas. Railroads, a military camp, oil fields and a community circus that gained national recognition highlight Gainesville’s colorful past. Offering a prosperous outlook for future growth and success, the town is home to NorthTexasMedicalCenter, NorthCentralTexasCollege and a large outlet mall. Though not considered part of Dallas-Fort Worth, the relatively short distance from Gainesville to the D-FW area allows residents to easily commute for work, business and entertainment.