Message From the City Manager
As we step into the final quarter of the year, I want to take a moment to thank you for staying connected with us by reading the Sanger Sentinel. Your engagement with this quarterly magazine helps keep our community informed and united, and I am grateful for your continued support.
The holidays are quickly approaching, and soon the cold weather will be upon us. I encourage everyone to do their part in conserving energy during the winter months, and to take the time to check in on elderly neighbors who may need a little extra assistance this season.
We also have a full calendar of events to look forward to as 2025 winds down. On October 4th, we kick things off with the Old Bolivar Songwriter Festival, followed by National Night Out on October 7th. Our Parks and Recreation Department will host the Fall Clean-Up Day, sponsored by DEF Recycling, on October 11th. The month continues with Sanger Sellabration on October 25th and Safe Spook on October 31st, bringing plenty of opportunities for our community to come together.
The Christmas season will be here before we know it, and I couldn’t be more excited about this year’s theme: Whoville and the Grinch. Downtown Park will soon be transformed into the whimsical Christmas world of Dr. Seuss, complete with truffula trees and holiday cheer.
I am also proud to share that the Blue Santa Program has officially launched in partnership with Sanger ISD and the Sanger Education Foundation. This program provides toys and essentials for at-
risk students in our community, and we invite you to join us in supporting it. New, unwrapped toys can be dropped off at City Hall, the Sanger Education Foundation, Uptown Rail and Brewery, Vintage Variety, or the Sanger Public Library. Cash donations may also be made through the Sanger Education Foundation by contacting Valerie Foster at 940-600-8890.
And finally, entries for the Christmas Parade are now open! Visit DiscoverSanger.com for more details and to sign up.
Thank you again for being part of what makes Sanger such a special place. I look forward to celebrating this season with all of you.
Warm regards,
John Noblitt
John Noblitt City Manager
Click here to listen to the latest message from the City Manager.
Sanger City Council
Thomas Muir Mayor
Gary Bilyue Mayor Pro-Te,
Marissa Barrett Place 1
Victor Gann Place 5
Josh Burrus Place 3
Allen Chic Place 4
Regular Meetings
7 pm
The 1st and 3rd Monday of each month
Sanger Historical Church
403 N 7th Street
Sanger, TX 76266
Work Session Meetings
6 pm (before regular meetings)
The 1st and 3rd Monday of each month
Sanger Historical Church
403 N 7th Street
Sanger, TX 76266
Work sessions are open to the public and citizens are encouraged to attend. Most of the discussion and deliberation takes place during the work session with formal action taking place at the regular meeting.
Agendas & Minutes
Agendas are available prior to meetings. Minutes are available following approval.
View Most Recent Agendas and Minutes | View Archived Agendas and Minutes
Council Recordings
The City of Sanger values transparency. Earlier this year, the Council voted to record council meetings. View recorded sessions here.
Contact Us
City Hall Address
502 Elm Street
Sanger, TX 76266
Hours: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM M-TH 7:30 AM - 11:00 AM F
Phone: 940-458-7930
Online: Sangertexas.org
Facebook: @SangerTexas
STAY CONNECTED
Did you know that Sanger has many ways to stay connected to what is happening in the City? Below, we feature all the ways to keep you connected.
Websites
Sangertexas.org
DiscoverSanger.com (City Tourism Site) Sangertxedc.org (Sanger Economic Development)
The City of Sanger launched the official podcast of Sanger, TX, The 266 Express.
Listen Here!
City Government Social Media
City of Sanger TX
Sanger Texas
Sanger Economic Development
City of Sanger TX
Sanger Texas
Department Social Media
Sanger, TX Parks and Recreation
Sanger Police Department
City of Sanger Texas Fire Department
Utility Services
Customer Service
Contact Number: 940-458-7930
EMAIL: utilitybilling@sangertexas.org
Start/Stop Utility Service
Click Here
Click Here for online utility payments
To report a water issue after hours, call: 940-299-5358
Sanger Utilities
The City of Sanger provides water service to City residents. The City also provides electric services to some areas of the community. Please contact our Utility Customer Service to confirm your provider.
Trash and Recycling services are provided through Republic Services. To start or stop service, please contact the City of Sanger Utility Billing Department or visit us online at SangerTexas.org for more information.
Trash & Recycling
Trash and recycling services in Sanger are provided by Republic Services and are billed by the City of Sanger monthly on your utility bills.
For missed collections or service issues, contact Republic Services at 972-316-0789
For billing questions, contact Sanger Customer Service in City Hall at :940-458-7930 or email utilitybilling@sangertexas.org
For more information, CLICK HERE.
For a list of frequently asked questions visit this site.
Sanger Police Department
A Message from the Chief of Police: Staying Safe During the Holiday Season
As the holiday season approaches, I want to take a moment to remind everyone in our community that this time of year often brings unique challenges when it comes to safety and security. While we all enjoy the celebrations, gatherings, and time with family, it is important to remain aware that criminals often take advantage of the season. Increased shopping, travel, and vacant homes can create more opportunities for theft and other crimes.
Protecting Your Home and Property
There are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of theft and keep your property secure:
• Lock doors and windows every time you leave home—even if it’s just for a short trip.
• Keep garages, sheds, and vehicles secured; thieves often look for easy access to tools, bikes, or electronics.
• Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight inside your vehicle. Packages, purses, or electronics should be removed or stored out of view.
• Use outdoor lighting and motion sensors to deter criminals who may be watching for dark or unattended homes.
• Set timers on lights inside your house if you’re away to give the appearance that someone is home.
• Be cautious about what you share on social media—posting travel plans or new purchases can alert the wrong people.
Traveling for the Holidays
If you are planning to be away during the holiday season, the Sanger Police Department can help provide peace of mind while you’re gone. Residents can notify us of their travel dates, and our officers will make frequent drive-bys of your property while you’re away. This added patrol presence can serve as an important deterrent and helps us watch over your home as if it were our own.
Looking Out for One Another
Our community is strongest when we work together. If you see something suspicious, whether it’s a person, vehicle, or activity that doesn’t look right, please don’t hesitate to call us. Often, the smallest piece of information can make the biggest difference in preventing crime.
Final Thoughts
The Sanger Police Department is committed to keeping you, your family, and your property safe, not just during the holidays, but all year long. With a few extra precautions and by staying alert, we can all enjoy a safe and joyful season.
On behalf of the entire department, I wish you and your loved ones a safe, happy, and peaceful holiday season.
Chief of Police, Tyson Cheek Sanger Police Department
Sanger Fire Department
A Message from the Fire Chief: Cold Weather Fire Safety
As temperatures drop, fire risks rise. Heating equipment, holiday cooking, and power outages can all increase the chance of home fires and carbon monoxide (CO) emergencies. Please take a moment to review these simple steps to keep your family safe this season.
Heating & Space Heaters
• Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away from space heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves.
• Plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet—never into extension cords or power strips.
• Turn heaters off when you leave the room or go to sleep.
• Have furnaces and chimneys inspected and cleaned annually; use a sturdy screen in front of fireplaces.
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Safety
Install CO alarms outside each sleeping area and on every level of your home; test monthly. Never use ovens, grills, or generators to heat your home. Place generators outdoors, at least 20 feet from doors, windows, and vents.
Electrical & Holiday Reminders
• Use heavy-duty extension cords only for short-term needs and check for frayed or damaged cords.
• Don’t overload outlets—follow the “one heat-producing appliance per outlet” rule.
• If you light candles, keep them 1 foot from anything that can burn and blow them out before leaving the room.
Kitchen Safety
• Stay in the kitchen when frying, boiling, or broiling.
• Keep a lid nearby to smother small pan fires—slide the lid on and turn off the burner.
Smoke Alarms & Escape Plans
• Test smoke alarms monthly; replace batteries if your model uses them.
• Replace smoke alarms every 10 years (CO alarms every 5–7 years, per manufacturer guidance).
• Make and practice a home fire escape plan; sleep with bedroom doors closed to slow smoke and heat.
Help Us Help You
• Keep hydrants near your home clear of snow and debris and make sure your house numbers are easy to see from the street.
• If you have questions—or need help with smoke or CO alarms—contact the Fire Department. We’re here to help.
• If you smell smoke, see fire, or suspect CO exposure (headache, dizziness, nausea), get outside and call 911 immediately.
Stay warm, stay safe, and thank you for helping us protect our community.
David Pennington, Fire Chief
Development Updates
Belz Road Retail
• Grocery Store – under construction
• Strip Center – under construction
• Retail Building – under construction
• 303 Multi-Family Units – under construction
• Yellow Door Storage – in permitting
• Chapman Crossing – 296 residential lots – Final Plat approved
Lane Ranch
• Phase 1 – Public Improvements Installed and Ready to begin construction of homes
• Phase 5 – civil plans approved and public improvements started
• Phase 3 and 7 – under civil plan review
Sanger Business
• In the platting process
Blue Star
• 291,000 sq ft Warehouse building – under construction
• 41,000 sq ft Cold Storage – in permitting
Elada Addition
• 1057 residential lots – Zoning approved
• Preliminary Plat – approved
Lois Road Estates
• Phase 1 - 155 residential lots – Final Plat approved
• Phase 2 - 116 residential lots – Final Plat approved
• Phase 2 - 176 residential lots – Final Plat approved
Windhaven Estates
• Replat - approved
• Gated Community 30 residential lots – civil plans approved and public improvements under construction
Sanger Circle Phase 7
• Public Improvements installed and ready to begin building 63 residential units
Oasis
• 82 multi-family units – Final Plat approved
• Lake Ridge Phase 4
• 100 residential lots – Preliminary Plat in process
High Point
• 374 residential lots and 17.48 acres commercial – Planned Development approved
Sanger Town Center
• Commercial development – Planned Development approved
Parks & Recreation
PORTER PARK PHASE 2 - MIRACLE LEAGUE FIELD AND PLAYGROUND
We’re thrilled to provide an update on the progress of the Porter Park Phase 2 project! This exciting development, located on approximately 50 acres of City of Sanger property, is situated east of Interstate Highway 35 and west of Cowling Road, along the scenic northern banks of Duck Creek. This prime location ensures easy access to Sanger Sports Parks through the right-of-way under the IH-35 overpass, enhancing connectivity for the community.
At the heart of Phase 2 will be the Miracle League Baseball Field, a specially designed facility that provides children with disabilities the opportunity to play baseball in an inclusive, accessible environment. The field features a cushioned surface to ensure safety and comfort, allowing players of all abilities to participate fully in the game. Alongside this, we plan to create a Miracle League Playground, an adaptive play space that is designed to accommodate children with a range of physical and developmental challenges, ensuring that every child can enjoy the joys of play.
This phase of the project will serve as a vibrant hub for recreation and community engagement, in line with the goals set forth in The Sanger 2040 Comprehensive Plan and the recent Request for Qualifications for this enhancement. The proposed program promises a variety of amenities, including five additional baseball fields, multi-purpose sports fields, a skate park, and a covered playground.
For outdoor enthusiasts, we are planning multi-purpose walking trails, other
ammenities may include a disc golf course, and pickleball courts, along with serene picnic areas, wildlife observation stations, interpretive signage, and natural play areas.
Currently, we have developed concept drawings and are actively engaged in fundraising to bring the Miracle League Field and Playground to life. We appreciate the community’s ongoing support as we work toward making Porter Park Phase 2 a reality. Stay tuned for more updates on this transformative project!
Infrastructure
Our commitment to upgrading infrastructure is vital for enhancing community wellbeing and economic strength in Sanger, TX.
Street Rehabilitation Projects
2025 Reynolds Asphalt Finishing Work:
• South Manor Dr. (S. Meadow → Dead End)
• South Park Ct. (S. Meadow → Dead End)
• Southside Dr. (I-35 → Southland Dr.)
• South Meadow Dr. (Southland Dr. → Southside Dr.)
• Carolyn Dr. (I-35 → David Dr.)
• Allen Dr. (I-35 → Carolyn Dr.)
• David Dr. (I-35 → Freese Dr.)
• Stephen Dr. (I-35 → David Dr.)
2026 Planned
• 3rd St. (Willow → Wayne)
• Austin St. (3rd → 5th)
• Church St. (2nd → 5th)
• Jackilu (2nd → 3rd)
• Locust St. (2nd → 3rd)
• Marshall (3rd → 5th)
• Wayne St. (3rd → 5th)
• Wood St. (2nd → 5th)
SUMP
Street Utility Maintenance Program
• April 2025: Kimley-Horn presented to Council (4/11/25).
• Overview of proposed SUMP and data usage.
• Adjustments made to exclude Chapman Rd., Duck Creek, 5th/Keaton, and mobile home park streets from scoring.
• Total cost to repair all City-owned streets estimated at $60M (excluding County/ TxDOT).
• Prioritization strategies for reconstruction explained.
• Kimley-Horn preparing project packages in $100K increments
Interlocal Agreement
• Denton County:
• Entered into an interlocal agreement to redesign Marion Rd and reconstruct Belz Rd & Jennifer Circle.
• Currently at 30% design phase for Marion Rd redesign.
Sanger Public Library
Library Highlights 2024 - 2025
A Year of Firsts
The Sanger Public Library celebrated an exciting year full of new initiatives:
Wizarding Week: The library hosted its first-ever Harry Potter–themed celebration, featuring Hogwarts house sorting, magical creature hunts, wand-making, and crafts that delighted fans of all ages.
Winter Reading Program: The inaugural winter program encouraged reading during the holiday season. A total of 136 patrons registered, with nearly 40% recording their reading progress, motivated by prizes and special programs.
Library Newsletter: March 2025 saw the launch of the library’s first newsletter, expanding outreach to keep the community informed about services and events.
TLA Conference: For the first time, the entire library staff attended the Texas Library Association’s Annual Conference in Dallas in April 2025. This enriching experience provided valuable insights and professional growth opportunities for the team.
Community-Centered Events
Life-Size Candyland: In December, the library transformed into a whimsical, life-sized Candyland board game as part of Sanger’s Christmas on the Square celebration. Families enjoyed navigating the colorful path to the Candy Castle, with 155 participants in a single afternoon.
Annual Sanger Art Exhibit: The 2025 exhibit showcased the creativity of 98 local artists across a variety of mediums, from acrylic painting to woodcarving. The April 10th reception drew 152 attendees, complete with live music and refreshments.
A Record-Breaking Summer
The 2025 Summer Reading Program was a standout season for the library:
• Attendance soared with 1,732 participants in events held throughout June and July.
• Registrations grew by 4% compared to 2024, with 467 participants signing up.
• Notably, 52% of participants recorded their reading, marking a 30% increase over the previous summer.
• Programming included 69 live and passive events, from storytimes to interactive performances.
• The library celebrated its 55th anniversary with cake shared among patrons and city partners.
Special summer highlights included:
• Ramazini’s Two-Man Circus outdoor performance and mini-carnival with 130 attendees.
• Noah’s Ark Petting Farm Critter University, featuring seven unique animals and a friendly mini-donkey, plus Kona Ice treats for 113 attendees.
Author Engagement
The library concluded summer programming with a special event featuring local author Amanda Churchill, whose debut novel The Turtle House was the August pick for the adult book club. Churchill shared stories, answered questions, and signed books, creating a meaningful connection between the author and the community. This successful event set the stage for future author visits.
Impact
Through innovative programming, professional development, and strong community engagement, the Sanger Public Library not only grew participation in reading programs but also strengthened its role as a vibrant cultural hub in Sanger. The achievements of 2024–2025 highlight the library’s commitment to fostering learning, creativity, and community connections.
Employee News & Updates
New Faces and Well-Earned Promotions
The City of Sanger continues to grow, and with that growth comes the opportunity to welcome new staff members and celebrate the hard work of current employees through well-deserved promotions. From our Police Department to Public Works, Finance, Library, Fire, Development Services, Parks, and beyond—Sanger’s team is expanding and strengthening to better serve our community.
This year, we are proud to introduce a number of new hires who bring fresh energy and skills to our city departments, along with dedicated staff who have been recognized for their outstanding service through promotions.
January New Hires
• Joshua Compton - Detective, Police Department
Promotions
• Ricky Rincon - Finance, Accounting Tech III
• Ryan Welborn - WWWTP, WWTP Operator III
March New Hires
• Carol Wilson - Library
• Cristian Martinez - Streets
• Jesse Sobotik - Water
April
New Hires
• Tayte Frazier - Development Services
• Francisco Marquez - Water
• Clint Mack - Fire
May
New Hires
• Roman Bayer - Streets
• Luis Rangel - Water
• Parker Robbins - Capital Projects Manager
• Brandon Henderson - Water
July
New Hires
• Christine Henlye - Library
• Kyleigh McBride - PD
• Morgan Miller - Economic Development
Promotions
• Andrew Neighbors - Electric Service Tech
August
New Hires
• John Styne-Burns - PD
• Lydianna Biggs - PW Promotions
• Christopher Kristufek - PD Detective
September New Hires
• Jett Jones - Streets
• Jarae Jackson - Streets
• Gillian Hayes - Parks
Sanger Economic Development
Greetings Community Members and Partners,
I’m pleased to share the latest updates from the Sanger Economic Development Corporation. This quarter has been marked by continued progress as we work to attract new opportunities, support local businesses, and build on the momentum of Sanger’s growth.
Inside this newsletter, you’ll find highlights on ongoing projects, available properties, and resources designed to strengthen our community and support your success.
Thank you for your partnership and investment in Sanger’s future. Together, we are shaping a vibrant and prosperous community.
WHAT’S NEW
Warm regards,
Shani Bradshaw Director of Economic Development City
of Sanger, Texas
Marley Meadows is a 19.653-acre residential development located within the City of Sanger’s Extra-Territorial Jurisdiction (ETJ). The property lies on the west side of Sam Bass Road, just north of the FM 455 and Sam Bass intersection. The project includes 17, 1 acre lots.
Lane Ranch has officially broke ground. Lane Ranch will be located along West Chapman Road, just to the east of the Sanger High School. This new development will have 1086 residential lots, 240 multifamily, assisted living, and 43 acres of commercial.
City Approves First Public Improvement District (PID)
The City Council recently approved the City’s first Public Improvement District (PID), marking a major milestone in local development. The PID encompasses approximately 306 acres located north of Belz Road and will support the Elada Planned Development. This project includes around 234 acres designated for 1,057 single-family homes, along with 71 acres set aside for parks, open space, and community amenities.
Chapman Crossing
This planned residential community spans approximately 68.209 acres along Belz Road, west of North Stemmons Freeway. The development is projected to include approximately 296 single-family lots, along with 11 HOA/open space lots, and 612 multifamily units. Minimum home sizes within the community will range between 1,300 and 2,000 square feet.
Windhaven Estates is developing 19.5 acres located on Marion Road just north of FM 455, across of the new Sanger High School. The development will consist of 30 large residential lots, with lot that are .40 acres and above. This will be a gated community. Lois Road Estates master planned development is located along Lois Road E and will include approximately 784 single-family lots.
Oasis Apartments is a planned 82-unit, three-story apartment community located at 4300 McReynolds Road, near Lane Ranch.
TOM THUMB MAKING PROGRESS
The Sanger EDC is pleased to announce that Tom Thumb is projected to open by the end of December. Hiring is expected to begin in the near future, creating new employment opportunities and adding to the city’s continued growth. To stay informed on this and other economic development updates, we encourage you to follow the Sanger EDC on Facebook and our newly launched LinkedIn page.
Sanger Senior Center Update
The demolition of the old lumberyard is now complete, clearing the way for the site’s next chapter. Plans are moving forward for the property to serve as the temporary home of the Sanger Senior Center, ensuring our senior community has a welcoming space for programs and activities while permanent facilities are explored. This marks an exciting step in bringing valuable resources closer to those who need them most.
Tilford Clifton and Lillian (Craddock) Wilson And Historic Wilson Lumber Company
By Sanger Area Historical Society and Museum
Tilford Clifton Wilson, born May 12, 1890, died March 16, 1983
Father Andy Marshall Wilson 1853-1932
Mother Kate Mayes Wilson 1858-1895
Lillian Clara (Craddock) Wilson, born February 7, 1890, died June 20, 1972
Children of Tilford and Lillian:
Marian Katheryn Wilson – 1913-1995
Clifton “Clif” Craddock Wilson – 1917-2006
Andy Whayne Wilson – 1920-1995
If you need to build a town, building supplies were needed. Shortly after the town of Sanger was founded in 1886, Tilford’s father, Andy Marshall Wilson, purchased the existing lumberyard shortly thereafter. Tilford began helping his father at the age of 12 years old and had been associated with the business for 75 years in 1985 with the exception while attending Draughan’s Business School in Fort Worth. At the time of Tilford’s retirement, the Wilson Lumber Company was the longest running business in Sanger. He provided building supplies for the community when building was increasing and provided some of the builders to buy on credit. After the builder was paid for his work, he would come by and pay his bill. There were several stories of running a business in early days, and one lady that had quite a bit of work done adding on to her home, would pay with a check. It was a business-type, larger check, but she would write down each item that had been purchased; i.e., 75 short nails, 20 2x4 boards, 3 gallons white paint, etc. The check would be written all over the front and back with not much room for the endorser to sign. In early years Wilson would sell product for goods when times were tough,
especially for farmers.
Tilford was an exceptional businessman and it showed in the history of his business, and his time served for the City of Sanger and its organizations. He served as mayor of Sanger from April 10, 1939 to April 7, 1947 and again ran successfully with his term beginning April 12, 1955 to April 11, 1961. He ran unsuccessfully the following term beginning April 11, 1961 but lost to W. D. Lewis, losing by less than 20 votes.
Tilford was born in a home north of the city square park on Elm Street. His parents, Andy and Kate, moved to Sanger from Green Valley and were among the first residents of the town. The Mayes had come from Kentucky and the Wilsons had come from Tennessee to Missouri and on to Collin County in Texas. Information Tilford provided to Eunice Sullivan Gray for a newspaper article reminisced about their water supply was located in the city park. The well flowed for several years and he remembered the four steps one had to go up and down to get over the fence which surrounded the well. “Carrying full buckets of water made it quite a feat.” Luckily, they
lived across the street. Prior to the well being drilled, people in the community got their water from the local creeks.
In 1909, Tilford’s father purchased a fourchain drive Buick from Smith Hamilton in Denton. It was mahogany in color with a white canvas top which could be let down. Bad roads around the community were a handicap. Trips to Denton were driven by the “brave.” Tilford remembers traveling with a horse and buggy was the safest way of travel during the early years of automobiles.
Tilford’s mother passed away when he was five years old. He was raised by his grandmother and his aunt, Miss Max Wilson. He had a brother, Clyde, who resided in Sanger with his wife, Kate. Tilford’s uncles Steve and Fine Wilson were the fiddlers of the community and Miss Max was the chaperone for the dancing parties that were given. Square dancing was a favorite pastime in those days.
enrolled at the time which included John Nicholson (later to be the postmaster in Sanger), and Pack Hampton.
After completing his further education at Draughan’s Business School, he married Lillian Craddock, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. F.M. Craddock of Denton. They were married by the late Dr. George Truett, pastor of the First Baptist Church of Dallas. Mrs. Wilson graduated in the class of 1910 from Texas Woman’s University, then known as C.I.A.
Tilford began school in Sanger and his first teacher was Miss Essie Phelps. A oneroom school was located at the site of the original school on Elm Street bordered by 5th and 7th Streets. The school had dirt floors and there were only 7 or 8 students
Tilford and Lillian were a very special couple in many ways. After WWI ended in 1918, Tilford would build his family’s home on West Bolivar Street which was then known as the “Silk Stocking Avenue.” The home would be trimmed in natural stone and equipped with all the modern conveniences; complete with a water well in the backyard with a water tank and electric pump house.
The home is still located at the northwest corner of Bolivar and 10th Streets which to this day is still a fine home. The backyard was Mr. Wilson’s pride with his numerous types of pecan trees. In the fall when the pecans began to fall, you could find him at home with a bowl full of pecans to crack. Many friends and family were given these gifts of Sanger
Tilford and Lillian
home-grown pecans shelled by Mr. Wilson.
One of the biggest social events of the season was given by Mesdames Tilford Wilson and Geo. O. Hughes and invited the ladies of the “Improvement Club” and their husbands with a Valentine party at the home of Lillian Wilson on Bolivar Street. The home was decorated with Valentine decorations and attended by many of the City leaders. The hostesses included Mesdames Freeman, Wilson, Burroughs, Berry, and Miss Pearl Hughes. A delicious course included heartshaped, brick cream with white cake bars bearing the Wilson-Hughes monogram in pink. Twelve games of progressive “42” were played. This wasn’t just a usual get-together as a five-piece orchestra from Denton furnished music through the evening.
Tilford and Lillian were active members of the First Baptist Church of Sanger. Lillian was a charter member of the Wednesday Study Club and the Civic Improvement Club.
Big cattle drives were remembered vividly by Mr. Wilson as told to Eunice Sullivan Gray for an article in her book. The cattle were driven down the main roads of Sanger to the loading pens of the Santa Fe Railway Station. The cattle were owned by ranchers Brown of Slidell, and the Fortenberrys and Forresters. Wilson did not know the Metz Brothers who had the famed “pigpen brand,” but he knew all about their land which extended north to the Cooke County line and west to Bolivar. The dust stirred and when the women would hear the rumble of the hooves of the cattle, they would run to their outside clotheslines to remove clothing to keep from the flying dust landing on their freshly-washed laundry.
Bud Gentle interviewed Tilford in May 1980 after Tilford had begun to retire two years
earlier. Bud and Tilford were good friends and Bud shared they played on a successful baseball team and Tilford was called “Lucky” as he was the pitcher for years.
Tilford was honored with a reception at the City Hall at the northwest corner of Bolivar and 2nd Streets which was built during Tilford’s second time as mayor of Sanger. The US Postal Service was going to build a new post office as the current one was too small. The post office was located on 3rd street behind the First National Bank building which is now used by the City for its offices. The post office was located where the City municipal court now is located on 3rd Street. The Postal Service intended to lease half of this new post office building to the City of Sanger for its new City Hall. Tilford decided this should be reversed; the City would build a new building and lease half of the building to the government for the post office. He was a wise businessman, and decided the City would pay cash for the building. This new building was dedicated in 1959. City Council members involved during this time were E. M. Acker, I.E. Brown, H. D. Cooper, G.A. Seely, and R. D. Windle, Sr. The lot for the new building was purchased from the Howard Estate from Mrs. Mollie Brockman. The government
at home.
Tilford
gave the specifications for the post office and the post office moved in as the tenant of half of the building. The City offices occupying the other half. “I was never on hand to go into debt,” said Tilford.
There was a big controversy about selling the city light plant. Tilford Wilson took a strong stand against the sale of the plant. It became one of the biggest assets of the town. The water system was purchased from Dan Davis and new wells were dug. In 1918 Lone Star Gas came to Sanger, the telephone company was privately owned for many years by George Mayes and later Mrs. Riley and later sold to Central Telephone.
Tilford was a quiet but stern man who served the City of Sanger as mayor and councilman, giving thirty-six years of good, sound business judgement of the affairs of Sanger. At eighty-five years old he was still a hearty man with a good sense of humor and still well-informed. He always took great interest in his family and friends. After the reception his parting comment was “If I had known they were coming to take my picture, I would have hid out.”
Tilford’s son, Andy Wilson, had a tv/radio repair shop which was located just to the east of the lumber yard. When his father was getting older, Andy began to help operate the lumber yard. Tilford’s grandson, Troyce, also helped at the business when needed.
The lumber yard was later leased to a company out of Oklahoma, and after Wilson’s death, his grandson sold the business to the Oklahoma company. The lumber yard operated for several more years before closing. The City became
owners of the property, and the land the business was located is reputed to become a City park in the future.
The historic Wilson Lumber Yard which held 2 buildings, and the cement building to the east used for the tv/radio repair shop, was recently demolished. And, alas, the community has lost an original, long-time piece of Sanger’s history.
Lumberyard
Upcoming Events
As the year winds down, Sanger is gearing up for a season full of community spirit and celebration! From October through December, residents and visitors can look forward to an exciting lineup of events that bring our town together.
October 4th, 2025
Old Bolivar Station Songwriter Festival
5 - 10 PM
Downtown Sanger
Join us for an incredible evening of live performances from tomorrow’s headliners. This year’s line-up is the best yet. Visit discoversanger.com/obsfest for the complete line-up. On Friday, make your way to Uptown Rail Brewery or the Windmill Saloon for a sneakpeak at some of the performances.
October 7th, 2025
National Night Out
6-8 PM
Sanger, Downtown Park
Join us in the downtown park as we celebrate community spirit. National Night out will feature a free cookout, games for the young and old, give-a-ways, and activities.
October 11th, 2025
Fall Clean-up Day
8 - 11 am
Railroad Park
It’s time to clean-up and get organized for the winter months. Bring your bulky trash to the Railroad Park Ballfields for free disposal.
December 6th, 2025
Christmas on the Square & Holiday Parade
2 - 8 PM
Join us for the 27th annual Christmas on the Square and Holiday Parade. Bring the kids by the downtown park at 2:00 for pictures with Santa and Crafting with Mrs. Claus. Kids will enjoy bounce houses, balloon twisters, and face painters. The parade kicks off at 6:30.
