Distinguished as the oldest incorporated municipality in Gaston County, Dallas was incorporated in 1863. This historic community was named after the U.S. Vice President at the time, George Mifflin Dallas, and served as the county seat until 1911. The old courthouse was renovated after a fire in the 1860s, serving as today's City Hall and standing proudly on the main square as a tribute to the town's proud past. Many spacious and well-kept older homes in the Dallas area harmonized beautifully with beautiful new construction. The rapid influx of residential development has characterized Dallas as a residential haven and bedroom community for commuters as opposed to a growing center for business and industry. The commercial and retail area of the town is well developed and provides daily conveniences close to home. However, firms and companies outside the city employ most residents of Dallas.