Bigger Than a Map Dot: The Inspiring Story of Cooper, Texas

The story of Cooper, Texas, is one of resilience and determination. This small town, nestled in the heart of rural Texas, was once a thriving community, but it had fallen on hard times. The town was in a state of decline, with many of its historic buildings standing empty and boarded up. However, thanks to the efforts of Paul and Jennifer Dwyer, Cooper is once again beginning to flourish.

Introduction to Cooper, Texas

Introduction to Cooper, Texas, a small town in rural Texas According to Paul Dwyer, "Unfortunately, Cooper was in a death mode for several years. It's a ghost town because everybody's gone." The town's decline was a result of the decline of the cotton industry, which had once been the backbone of the local economy. As the cotton industry declined, many of the town's residents left to find work in other cities, leaving behind a trail of empty buildings and a dwindling population.

The Dwyers' Vision for Cooper

The Dwyers' vision for Cooper, a small town in rural Texas Paul and Jennifer Dwyer, owners of the BFT Ranch in Ben Franklin, Texas, had a vision for Cooper. They wanted to revitalize the town and bring it back to its former glory. The Dwyers' journey began when they decided to leave their suburban life in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and move to Texas to start a cattle ranch. They chose Cooper as their home and soon became invested in the town's future. As Paul Dwyer said, "We landed where we did because this was the right parcel."

The History of Cooper, Texas

The history of Cooper, Texas, a small town in rural Texas Cooper has a rich history, dating back to the 19th century. The town was once a thriving community, with three grocery stores, two movie theaters, and a number of other businesses. However, as the cotton industry declined, the town's economy began to suffer. Many of the town's residents left, and the once-thriving downtown area was left with empty buildings and a dwindling population.

The Dwyers' Investment in Cooper

The Dwyers' investment in Cooper, a small town in rural Texas The Dwyers' investment in Cooper began with the purchase of a historic building on the town square. They renovated the building and turned it into a bed and breakfast, called the Emma Grace. The Emma Grace was a significant investment for the Dwyers, and it marked the beginning of their efforts to revitalize the town. As Paul Dwyer said, "We stayed true to ourselves, and we talked about it, and it became a bed and breakfast."

The Impact of the Dwyers' Investment

The impact of the Dwyers' investment in Cooper, a small town in rural Texas The Dwyers' investment in Cooper had a significant impact on the town. Their bed and breakfast, the Emma Grace, brought new life to the town square, and it helped to attract visitors and new businesses to the area. The Dwyers also opened a coffee shop, called the Vetch, which became a popular gathering place for locals and visitors alike. As Paul Dwyer said, "What's happened because of the Dwyers is - not only did that entire block get remodeled, but the whole north side of the square."

The Future of Cooper, Texas

The future of Cooper, Texas, is bright. Thanks to the efforts of the Dwyers and other community leaders, the town is once again beginning to thrive. The town's downtown area is being revitalized, with new businesses and restaurants opening up. The community is coming together to support the town's growth and development, and there is a sense of excitement and optimism about the future. As Paul Dwyer said, "What's the future for Cooper? I think it's wide open. What we really want is our downtown back like it used to be with all the buildings full and thriving businesses."