Harlow, Texas, was a small community just west of State Highway 34, about four miles south of Greenville in central Hunt County. Likely established in the late 1800s, it was named after the Harlow family of Hunt County. The town’s early economy was driven by local agriculture, with residents working the land and supporting one another through shared challenges and successes. This early period was marked by a sense of camaraderie and communal spirit, reflecting the broader patterns of life in rural Texas during that era.

 By the 1930s, county highway maps featured Harlow, Texas, indicating a collection of farms and businesses near the highway. However, no population figures are available, and by the 1980s, Harlow, Texas, no longer appeared on highway maps.

Harlow, Texas, and its connection to the Texas Chainsaw Massacre

The connection between Harlow and the Texas Chainsaw Massacre, a well-known horror film that used the town's name and setting fictitiously, is intriguing. While many believe the movie's setting to be the real Harlow, the filming took place in different locations. 

This association has generated significant interest in Harlow's history and geography, prompting fans and tourists to visit the filming locations and explore the movie's lore.

Key filming locations from the movie, such as the gas station and the infamous house, have become tourist attractions. This fascination with the filming locations has helped to preserve Harlow’s memory and has sparked a renewed interest in its past.

While Harlow itself may no longer exist as an active town, the legacy of its name persists through its connection with the film. In addition to the film’s cultural impact, enthusiasts and historians have also made efforts to document and preserve the history of Harlow.

 These efforts include researching historical records, gathering stories from former residents, and creating archives that detail the town’s past. This work ensures that Harlow’s history is not lost to time but rather remains a part of the broader historical tapestry of Hunt County and rural Texas.

In summary, Harlow Texas, was a real community with historical roots that date back to the early 20th century in Hunt County. Although it was once a small, vibrant town, it faded over time and is now primarily remembered through its association with the iconic horror film The Texas Chainsaw Massacre.

The name “Harlow” lives on in popular culture largely due to the movie’s influence, which has drawn a steady stream of fans and film enthusiasts interested in exploring the filming locations and uncovering the story behind the film. This connection to the legendary horror classic has helped keep the memory of Harlow alive as visitors seek to experience the eerie atmosphere and historical significance of the place that inspired the terrifying tale of Leatherface and his family. 

The town’s role in the film has transformed it into a cultural landmark, attracting fans and scholars interested in exploring the real-world locations behind the iconic horror story. This unique position allows Harlow to bridge the gap between its historical roots and its place in modern popular culture, ensuring its story continues to captivate and intrigue people from all walks of life.