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The small, historic Town of Dallas, named after George Mifflin Dallas, the eleventh vice-president of the United States, is located near the county's geographic center and immediately north of the Interstate 85 and US 321 interchange. 

Established as the first seat of Gaston County government in 1846, Dallas would go on to officially incorporate as a town on February 11, 1863. Fast forward to 2014, and the 4600 residents of this post-card like oasis of southern charm and hospitality are celebrating their sesquicentennial anniversary by completing the comprehensive restoration and enhancement of the nationally-registered (1848) historic courthouse building and traditional downtown public square. The area still serves as the town's focal point for family-oriented gatherings and events, and will continue to do so long in the future.

One of Dallas' most accomplished and revered residents, the late Dr. William C. Friday, grew up in a small frame house only blocks from the square. His distinguished career in higher education was hallmarked by his service as the longest-tenured president (1956-1986) in the University of North Carolina System. The university system's growth, prestige and status as one of the nation's premier institutions were largely defined by Friday's active presence. Today, the William C. Friday Middle School reflects his legacy of educational service and leadership.

The Gaston County Museum of Art and History is located in Dallas opposite the Courthouse Square in the 1852-vintage former Hoffman Hotel where visitors to the preserved structure can tour two floors of extensive, changing exhibits on local and regional art and history, including the largest collection of horse-drawn vehicles and the permanent Carolina's textile exhibit. 

Just up the road, beyond a burgeoning commercial and retail center at the US321 Interchange, lies the campus of Gaston College, where nearly a half-million square feet of classroom, laboratory and support buildings allow some 16,000 students annually to attend classes toward degree and certificate programs as part of the North Carolina Community College System.

With a highly successful municipal electric utility providing reliable, low-cost power; a water and wastewater system growing in capacity and quality; well-equipped and trained public safety forces; and family-oriented recreational facilities and programming, Dallas is poised for a sustainable future, where progress is respected and actively pursued, while legacies are acknowledged and honored.   

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