Scyene: The Rise and Fall of a Historic Dallas Town
Nestled in East Central Dallas County, Texas, lies the story of Scyene (pronounced sye-EEN), a small town that once thrived as a hub of activity before evolving into a quiet neighborhood in east Dallas. Located approximately 10 miles east-southeast of downtown Dallas, Scyene serves as a fascinating glimpse into the frontier era of Texas and the volatile nature of early urban development.
The town's original boundaries were defined by Military Parkway to the north, Bruton Road to the south, North Prairie Creek to the west, and the intersection of South Sam Houston and Cheyenne roads to the east. Its heart beat at the crossing of Scyene Road and North Saint Augustine Drive.
The Origins and Naming of Scyene
Before it became Scyene, the settlement was known by the names Thorpville or Prairie Creek. The community reached a milestone in 1854 with the establishment of its first post office, marking its official founding. The name "Scyene" was suggested by James Beeman, who originally proposed the spelling "Seine." However, the local residents initially adopted the spelling "Sceyne," which eventually evolved into the version used today.
A Hub for Notorious Figures
Scyene is perhaps most famous for the high-profile figures who once called it home. During the Civil War in 1864, the town became a residence for several notorious individuals, including the outlaw brothers Jesse and Frank James, as well as Cole and Bob Younger. Additionally, Myra Shirley—who would later gain fame as the outlaw Belle Starr—also moved to Scyene during this period.
The Zenith and the Railway Turning Point
By 1873, Scyene reached its peak. With a population of roughly 300 residents, the town boasted a diverse local economy and social scene, featuring a wagon factory, a Masonic Lodge, and six saloons.
However, the town's prosperity was short-lived. In that same year, the Texas and Pacific Railway planned its route through the region. Because the town refused to fund the construction of a railway depot at its own expense, the railroad bypassed Scyene entirely. This decision triggered a slow economic decline and paved the way for the rise of the neighboring city of Mesquite, where the railroad chose to build its own depot.
Modern Transition and Annexation
As the independent town faded, the land eventually became part of the growing city of Dallas, with Scyene being officially annexed in 1950.
In the mid to late 1950s, the area saw a residential revival with the development of Riverway Estates/Bruton Terrace. This development was named for the homes lining Lake June, a body of water formed by a dam on Prairie Creek. Although the dam is now open and the lake has significantly dwindled, remnants of the lake still exist today. The eastern section of this residential development occupies land that was once part of the original town of Scyene.
Key Facts
- Founded: Officially established in 1854.
- Peak Population: Approximately 300 residents in 1873.
- Famous Residents: Jesse James, Frank James, Cole Younger, Bob Younger, and Belle Starr.
- Economic Peak: Featured a wagon factory, six saloons, and a Masonic Lodge.
- Turning Point: Bypassed by the Texas and Pacific Railway in 1873.
- Annexation: Became part of Dallas in 1950.
| Period/Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Early Names | Thorpville or Prairie Creek |
| Official Founding | 1854 (Post Office established) |
| Peak Year | 1873 |
| Cause of Decline | Lack of railway depot funding |
| Modern Status | Neighborhood in East Dallas |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Scyene decline as a town?
Scyene declined after the Texas and Pacific Railway bypassed the town in 1873 because the community refused to pay for the construction of its own depot.
Who were some of the famous people who lived in Scyene?
The town was home to notorious figures including Jesse and Frank James, Cole and Bob Younger, and Myra Shirley (Belle Starr), who arrived during the Civil War in 1864.
When was Scyene annexed into Dallas?
Scyene was officially annexed to the city of Dallas in 1950.
What happened to Lake June?
Lake June was created by a dam on Prairie Creek for the Riverway Estates/Bruton Terrace development. While the dam is now open and the lake has dwindled, it still exists in a reduced state.
How was the name "Scyene" decided?
James Beeman suggested the name "Seine," but residents first spelled it "Sceyne," which eventually evolved into the current spelling, Scyene.