Discover Tyler County 2023

More than just a nursing home or assisted living facility, Woodville Health & Rehabilitation Center offers services to care for the whole person. Nestled in the piney woods of East Texas, Woodville Health & Rehabilitation Center is a 24-hour skilled nursing and rehabilitation center with extensive amenities and services.

Mattie Littlecreek of the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas/ Ojibwa/Kiowa demonstrates a traditional tribal dance at the annual Harvest Festival.

Photo by Jim Powers

Tyler County 2023

a word from our team

In one of his masterful, lyrical works, the great Irish bard William Butler Yeats called upon a memory triggered from childhood to describe a locale where he spent summers as a child.

77351

936-327-4357

To contact the editor, email Chris Edwards at cedwards@polkcountypublishing.com

Tyler County Area Map

Yeats wrote, in the poem “The Lake Isle of Innisfree” of a place where he finds “some peace there…dropping from the veils of the morning to where the cricket sings.”

Nine hundred and thirty-six square miles comprise the Deep East Texas locale of Tyler County; 11 of those square miles are covered by water, and the rest land. It is more than that, though. Tyler County is a collection of individuals who have carved out a place called home; a place amongst peaceful pines, where the crickets and the owls harmonize.

The material contained within this publication is a sliver of what Tyler County is, what it was and what it can/will be. It is a great privilege for us to be able to curate this collection of writings and photographs to you, whether you are among those who’ve called this place home, if you are passing through or if you plan to visit. Whichever group in which you fall, we welcome you all the same, and along with the privilege of putting this together, it is an honor to serve as an ambassador for Tyler County.

We hope that you find much to discover in these pages, and it is our fervent hope that you get out in our neck of the woods and enjoy continuing those discoveries you found on the pages of this, Discover Tyler County.

meet the staff

Publisher:

Kelli Barnes

Copy Editor:

Chris Edwards

Accounting:

Debbie McCluskey

Design Editor

Beth Faircloth

Advertising:

Donna Hammer

Becky Byley

Jeff Fatheree Writers & Photographers:

Kelli Barnes

Chuck Davidson

Chris Edwards

Donna Hammer

Mollie LaSalle

Jim Powers

Jacob Spivey

Emily Banks Wooten

A Governor’s gift:

Allan Shivers Library and Museum serves the past and present while looking toward the future

By Mollie LaSalle

The Allan Shivers Library and Museum is so much more than the books and artifacts contained within its walls. This is where history comes to life, and the citizens of Tyler County are the benefactors of Governor and Mrs. Allan Shivers’s generous gift from years gone by.

The two-story Victorian style home was built by Robert A. Cruse in 1881; the building was purchased by Governor Shivers in 1963 after it was in danger of being demolished to make way for a new motel. Shivers had it moved a few blocks away to its present location and had extensive remodeling done. An interior designer from New York helped Mrs. Shivers remodel the structure, converting the home into a museum to house the Shivers’ historical records and memorabilia from their personal and public lives. A new structure was erected adjacent to the original for use as a public library.

Renovations were completed in 1966, and a formal dedication and ribbon cutting was held on October 1 of that year with governor John Connally on hand to do the honors. A Texas State Historical Marker was also formally unveiled denoting the museum as a registered Texas Historic Landmark. Governor Shivers and his wife, Marialice were in attendance as well as several other dignitaries.

Above: Allan Shivers Library and Museum as it appears today. Right: The house that would later become the Allan Shivers museum was purchased by the governor in 1963 and moved a few blocks away to its present location.

Robert Allan Shivers was born in Lufkin in 1907 and grew up at the family home at Magnolia Hills near Woodville. He attended Woodville schools until the family moved to Port Arthur when he was 13. He completed school there and graduated from Port Arthur High School in 1925. He graduated from the University of Texas at Austin in 1933 with a degree in law, and in 1934, at the age of 27, became the youngest elected member of the Texas State Senate, serving from 1934-1946. A two- year absence occurred when Shivers enlisted in the Army, from 1943-1945. In 1946, he was elected Lieutenant Governor, and was re-elected in 1948. Shivers was elevated to the Governor’s office upon the sudden death of Beauford Jester in July 1949, to date the only person to attain the governorship this way. He ran and won the office outright in 1950, and was re-elected two more times, in 1952, and 1954. He was so popular that in the 1952 race, he was listed as the candidate for both the republican and democratic party on the ballot (Democrat Shivers defeated republican Shivers 74% to 24% that year).

Allan Shivers is considered to be the most influential and popular of Texas’s governors for the latter part of the twentieth century. He was often referred to as maverick democrat, prone to bolt from his party to support republican candidates; he endorsed Dwight Eisenhower for President in 1952 and 1956. While in the governor’s office, Shivers took charge of the democratic party, expanding and modernizing services including education, prisons, and

mental health facilities. He declined to run for a fourth term and retreated to private life in 1957.

Shivers stayed busy after his stint in Austin; he became a director of several large banks and operated Western Pipeline Inc. for many years. He also served on the board of regents at UT Austin alongside Lady Bird Johnson and was the driving force behind securing a $5 million grant for the Moody College of Communication in 1980; an endowed chair of journalism was established in his honor. Shivers died in January 1985 and is interred at the Texas State Cemetery in Austin along with his wife, Marialice.

The Library and Museum’s director, Kay Timme graciously and warmly welcomes one and all to check out the many services they offer; they host several popular events throughout the year. Two of their most popular are the annual book sale held in May; the summer reading program is a fun and eagerly awaited event for children every June through July for six weeks. There is a children’s reading room and a large print room. You can take on-line GED classes, and check out the newest addition, the John and Rosemary Bunch Reading/Meeting Room, which broke ground in 2010 (Governor Shivers’s son Brian doing the honors) and formally opened in August of the same year was named named after Ms. Bunch, who was the library director for several years, and who was the driving force behind the reading room being built. There are so many fun things to do at the library, you could spend all day there and not accomplish half of them.

Governor Allan Shivers in his office. Photo used from the Portal of Texas History, hosted by the UNT Libraries

Once you obtain a library card from the friendly staff you can check out books, DVDs, and e-books. The library is home to over 21,000 books, according to assistant librarian Carolyn Williams. Back in the day, patrons had two weeks to keep a book, and pay a fine if it was late. The new policy is you can turn it in late with no fines, but if it is lost, you have to pay to replace the book. There are six computers and free wi-fi. You can get copies made, have faxes sent, and documents printed. These are just a few of their services.

The mission of the Allan Shivers Library and Museum is to provide facilities, materials, information, and services that support the diverse needs and requirements of our community, in a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. The Allan Shivers Museum invites the public to step into the life, career, and accomplishments of Governor Allan Shivers to preserve, educate, and share his role in contributing to the history of Texas. The Allan Shivers Library and Museum strives to connect the community by exploring and understanding the past, connecting and engaging in the present, and imagining and creating the future.

Museum manager Roschelle Springfield has laboriously spent the last year renovating the exhibits in the museum. Springfield gave this writer a personal tour last August. Although things were in disarray, I was in awe at the sheer enormity of artifacts on display. She kept apologizing for the way the exhibits looked, but I was blown away by everything. Governor and Mrs. Shivers rooms are a treasure trove for history buffs.

Springfield hosted an open house for the remodeled exhibits during December 2022, and she has done a fantastic job in organizing and renovating every square inch of the museum. The museum held a

grand re-opening January 28, 2023. The elaborately decorated rooms are jaw-dropping; it’s as if you have stepped back in time.

Do yourself a favor and take in the exhibit upstairs with the various figures in period costume from the 1950’s and 60’s. There are figures representing Governor and Mrs. Shivers in their inaugural dress from 1955, and some representing their daughter, Marialice II from various festivals she attended in the 1960’s. A part of the museum where I could spend days in is the rare book room, which contains the Governor’s private collection of books, periodicals, and rare Texas history books, which are available for use in the library with approval by staff.

Governor and Mrs. Shivers were close personal friends of Lyndon Johnson and his wife Lady Bird, and there are numerous signed photos, correspondence and mementos from President Johnson and Lady Bird literally everywhere. There are also mementos from the Governor’s war years. I was noticeably struck by a signed photograph of Admiral Nimitz, as well as one from the Japanese surrender at the end on WWII aboard the battleship Missouri, also signed by Admiral Nimitz to his good friend, Allan Shivers. There are so many surprises scattered about, and you find yourself more in awe at every turn. Governor Shivers also corresponded with Dwight Eisenhower, whom he met during the war, and also John F. Kennedy, from Kennedy’s campaign days through his White House years. There is an invitation Governor Shivers received to a “Texas Welcome Dinner’’ on November 22, 1963, at the Municipal Auditorium in Austin, which was to feature appearances by Texas Governor John Connally and his wife Nellie, Vice President Lyndon Johnson and Lady Bird, and President Kennedy and First Lady Jackie Kennedy.

Above: Governor Shivers received this invitation to the Texas Welcome Dinner honoring President John F. Kennedy and Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson.

Right: A display of gowns worn by Marialice Shivers and daughter Marialice II. Also shown is the tuxedo Governor Shivers wore to the inaugural ball in 1953.

Above: The Marialice Shivers Room at the museum spotlights Mrs. Shivers.

One more artifact which caught my eye was a hand- written note Mrs. Shivers received upon the Governor’s passing. It is included in its entirety here:

LBJ Ranch

Stonewall, Texas 78671

Dear Marialice,

The news of Allan’s death is still so fresh that I can’t quite believe it yethe’s been a part of the world around me for so long-from University of Texas days through my life with Lyndon-and we both admired him so much and rejoiced in his friendship. I’m glad I shared those years on the Board of regents too-and it was just last year that he did a very kind and gracious thing for me when he hosted the luncheon that launched here in Austin the dear to my heart project, the Wildflower Research Center. He spent his life to such good purpose and the girls and I are saddened by

his departure. We send our understanding sympathy and affection to you and all the family. Lady Bird

The Allan Shivers Library and Museum is a testament to its namesake’s legacy and is a “must see” stop on anyone’s bucket list of places to visit. The museum is a living monument to the past.

Who knows, maybe a future governor has toured the landmark on a school field trip, inspired by Shivers life-long dedication of service to his state and his country. This unassuming old building which was in danger of being demolished sits proudly at 302 North Charlton Street in Woodville and welcomes one and all to check out what is contained within its walls.

The library’s hours of operation are: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. You can call the library at 409-283-3709 or email: ashivers.library@yahoo.com to inquire about or schedule a tour of the museum. ■

TikTok/tick-tock

By Kelli Barnes

The first thing that comes to your mind when you hear the words TikTok (tick-tock), will in most cases tell from what generation you originate.

In 2023, social media of all sorts has proven to be a two-edged sword. Finding the good, while not letting the bad devour you, is the mental challenge of our time.

Diving in to one of the brighter sides of social media, meet local businesswoman and entrepreneur Brittany Russell Bailey. To date, she has more than 267,000 followers on the social media site TikTok, and a thriving business. In 2021, she opened a brick-and-mortar store located on Magnolia Street (Hwy. 69) in Woodville, using it mostly as a distribution center for merchandise being shipped all over the United States and Canada.

“Eighty percent of my business is designing, printing and shipping custom T-shirts and sweatshirts,” Bailey said. “When a T-shirt/sweatshirt goes viral (on TikTok), it means 500 to 2,000 units are sold, and it is a huge blessing to my business and my family. The other 20% in revenue comes from the boutique.” If you love boutique shopping, the door to Bailey Made is open six days a week and promises the latest in fashion trends.

“I found out sales and marketing was something I loved my senior year of college,” she said. “I wanted the experience of challenging myself and to win a trip to Mexico, so I signed a summer internship to sell books door to door in Tennessee. I did over $30,000 in sales that summer that helped with college expenses and I won the trip.”

Bailey was born and raised in Colmesneil, earned a full ride business scholarship, the Smith-Hutson, and graduated from Sam Houston State University. “The most valuable tool I received from my college education is that networking is life changing,” Bailey said. “To this day networking has continued to bless and grow my business.”

While raising her family, she has worked as a high school business teacher for seven years to now becoming a TikTok mid-tier influencer and business owner. “I did not start on TikTok until 2021 but having the ability to build followers so quickly came from 10 years of networking on other social media sites, starting with Facebook, then Instagram and now TikTok,” she said.

Bailey’s first side gig out of college was using Facebook to promote a brand of lipstick after teaching school all day. Soon, she had 400 women under her selling the product. “The networking connections made during this phase of my business development is everything,” said Bailey.

“Next, I bought small equipment to make custom T-shirts for myself and my daughters. By using social media, I was able to start selling them immediately. The thought of this becoming a business had not entered my mind at this point. But that first year, I worked day and night fulfilling orders. At the time, in addition to individuals, I also sold to 60 different boutiques/wholesalers. I sacrificed so much the first year growing the business; my family would have vacation without me. They also sacrificed alot; I could not have done it that year without the help of my mother and sisters. They have been here for me every step of the way.

“When orders got to a point where I was able to support the business and substitute my teaching income, I was able to resign from education, and focus on growing my dream of being an entrepreneur!”

Brittany attends the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas.

Bailey has excellent business sense, following self-imposed financial goals daily. She no longer sells to wholesalers and is currently awaiting delivery of a large capacity direct-to-film T-shirt printer to her workshop/warehouse any day. She employs three people full-time and is seeking to expand her boutique in 2023 by using methods she learned from her lipstick-promoting days. She is seeking individuals interested in becoming brand representatives and paid affiliates, to push her boutique fashions.

Due to her TikTok success as a mid-tier influencer, Bailey has spent the last six months also working for an agency promoting several different brands and making videos about their products. This is a bonus revenue stream for the company.

When asked if she has any plans to syndicate her Bailey Made Boutique brick-and-mortar store into other East Texas communities she replied, “I haven’t thought about that yet, but it could be a possibility.” ■

What is a TikTok influencer?

A TikTok Influencer is a user on social media who has established credibility through the videos they create and post on TikTok. This person has access to a large audience and can persuade others by virtue of their authenticity and reach.

•Micro-influencers have between 10,000 and 50,000 followers.

•Mid-tier influencers have between 50,000 and 500,000 followers.

•Premium/Macro influencers have between 500,000 and 1,000,000 followers.

•Celeb/Mega influencers have over 1,000,000 followers.

Find Brittany on Social media

Facebook: *5.4k followers.

Brittany Bailey

Instagram: *55.2k followers

Brittany.bailey__

TikTok: *270k followers

@brittanybaileymade

*As of January 2023

Brittany Russell Bailey

Brittany and her daughters.

50 Ways To enjoy tyler county

1.Sunsets along Sorthbound 69 and along RR 255 – Take a drive in the evening and see something that makes you feel glad to be alive.

2.Sullivan’s Hardware – A store that has everything one could imagine, from the cradle to the grave, right in the middle of downtown Woodville. Come and say hi to Fred and crew.

3.Christmas lighting displays – A nifty treat for those who love driving around to look at Christmas lights, there are several found in Tyler County at Christmastime. From the Womack Redneck Lights display near Woodville to the Magic of Christmas out on Frog Pond in Colmesneil, there are some “go big or go home”-minded displays of Christmas cheer, to be sure!

4.Triple Creek RV Park – Located out FM 1746, this long-running RV park is a bluegrass music fan’s paradise, with regular jam sessions and concerts, and there’s even an on-site music shop, just in case you’ve come out to jam and forgot backup strings for your banjo or guitar.

5.Unique shopping opportunities – Countywide, there are antique stores; in Spurger, the largest Case knives store; three hardware stores with specialty gifts; two feed stores with specialty gifts; resale shops; clothing stores and gift shop, all unique to Tyler County.

6.Harris Country Market – The burgers here make the drive out to Town Bluff and a stop here a journey all of its own.

7.The Dogwood Festival – For the span of three weekends during March and April, the county comes together to celebrate what it is, what it was and what it can be.

11.Lake Tejas – Colmesneil’s famous swimming hole with slides, diving boards, music, pool tables, food, picnic area, RV hook ups, and cabins for rent.

8.The simple joy of listening to the Carillon Bells at 5 p.m. daily, broadcast from the Woodville Methodist Church.

9.Christmas celebrations countywide, such as the lighted boat parade in Ivanhoe and the Twilight Tour out at Heritage Village.

10.The tall pines – Our most noteworthy resource in more than one regard. The tall, peaceful pines line the highways and greatly enhance the peace of mind and appeal of many folks’ properties.

12.Watching T-Ball games at Hennigan Park in Woodville.

13.Getting some exercise in downtown Woodville and the surrounding neighborhoods.

14.Having a bowl of red beans and rice and an old-fashioned at Woodville’s Magnolia Bar and Grill.

15.Victory Camp Colmesneil – A children’s day camp located on FM 1745 offers activities like fishing, archery, horseback riding, crafts, bounce house, hayrides, and “kids church”.

16.The Volunteer Spirit – Communities in Tyler County rally together when someone is hurt or ill, with folks holding fundraisers and organizing things such as meal deliveries. Civic clubs and church groups also routinely get together to help provide for folks in need and engage in activities like building wheelchair ramps.

17.Wonderful Views – Whether it’s a drive down RR 255 or the view where one can see across three hills on US 69 outside of Colmesneil, there are some spellbinding views to be found in Tyler County.

1

in 5 Adults ... mental illness in a given 25 live with a serious mental such as schizophrenia, depression or bipolar disorder.

1 in 5 Adults ... experiences mental illness in a given year. One in 25 live with a serious mental illness such as schizophrenia, major depression or bipolar disorder.

1

in 5 Adults

in 5 Adults

Clinic at Tyler County Hospital 327-3786 for appointments

1 in 5 Adults... experiences mental illness in a given year. One in 25 live with a serious mental illness such as schizophrenia, major depression or bipolar disorder.

Woodville Clinic at Tyler County Hospital Call (936) 327-3786 for appointments

... experiences mental illness in a given in 25 live with a serious mental illness such as schizophrenia, depression or bipolar disorder.

... experiences mental illness in a given year. One in 25 live with a serious mental illness such as schizophrenia, major depression or bipolar disorder.

Woodville Clinic at Tyler County Hospital (936) 327-3786 for appointments

Woodville Clinic at Tyler County Hospital Call (936) 327-3786 for appointments

Woodville Clinic at Tyler County Hospital Call (936) 327-3786 for appointments

Beaumont 3190 North Street 409-924-0002

Port Arthur 7900 Medical Center Blvd. 409-729-2371

Lumberton 228A Country Lane Dr., Ste. B 409-751-2010

www.drrisingersmiles.com

RONALD K. RISINGER, DDS, MS

MICHAEL F. NELSON, DDS

A Family Tradition

At Riley Funeral Home, caring for your loved one is accepted by us as a sacred trust.

Our family-operated funeral home provides individualized funeral services designed to meet the needs of each family. Our staff of dedicated professionals is available to assist you in making your arrangements. From casket choices to funeral flowers, we will guide you through all aspects of the funeral service.

913 U.S. Highway 190 W. | Woodville, TX 75979 409-283-8131

rileysfuneralhome.com

Our family serving your’s.

We at Farmer Funeral Home have been serving the needs of area families for over 90 years.

The Farmer Funeral Home provides individualized funeral services designed to meet the needs of each family. Our staff of dedicated professionals is available to assist you in making your arrangements. From casket choices to funeral flowers, we will guide you through all aspects of the funeral service.

415 North 4th Street | Silsbee, TX 77656 409-385-2828

farmerfhsilsbee.com

18.Fried chicken, chez Pickett House – Stop on in to the famous Pickett House out at Heritage Village for a helping of all-you-can-eat fried chicken (the offering that made the place famous) as well as plenty of homestyle sides and some of those incredible biscuits.

in the fall.

31.Peach Tree Village – There’s not much left to this early Tyler County settlement, but the beautiful church and the Cauble House are more than worth a sight-seeing drive to touch some of the county’s roots.

19.Coffee and conversation at Doretta’s Lair – A community of artists and a creative space that also happens to have some incredible coffee. Stop by and pay a visit to one of the most peaceful spots in Woodville.

20.Gulley’s Barbershop – Although long-serving barber Claude Gulley retired last year, Gulley’s is still the place to go for a nifty haircut and to soak up stories and jokes from old-timers and youngsters, alike.

21.The Big Thicket Birding Trails – The Big Thicket is full of trails for hiking and bird-watching.

22.Friday Night Lights – If you haven’t been out to a Friday night high school football game in a long time, go and take in a game in the fall. Whether it’s the Bulldogs, Warriors, Eagles or Yellowjackets you’re out to support, the synergy between the players on the field and the supporters in the stands is a certain kind of magic.

23.The Burger House – Colmesneil’s famous cathedral of cheeseburgers is still going strong. An intermittent fast might be cured by the epic Bulldog Burger.

24.Tyler County Art League and the Emporium for the Arts – Located in the heart of downtown Woodville, the county’s non-profit devoted to all forms of artistic expression and a separate performing arts venue, located next door, are the brainchild of Judith and Sam Haney, and great places to find visual art as well as take in shows.

25.Kirkley Springs – A roadside park located near Woodville, along US 287, this picturesque spot is an ideal place to post up a while for a picnic, or just for some mind-clearing space.

26.Take in a July 4 fireworks display. There are several, for example, the one in Ivanhoe (over the lake) and in Woodville at the Church in the Country.

27.Debbie’s Hardware (formerly Martin’s) – in Colmesneil is another great retailer that you’re not going to find the likes of in a large city.

28.Lots of great food – Whether it’s Tex-Mex you crave or stir-fry, there are eateries aplenty in Tyler County, where you can fill your craving without breaking the bank.

29.Allan Shivers Library and Museum – A gift from Gov. Allan Shivers to the people of Tyler County, this marvelous facility is a great place to check out the latest bestsellers, along with the late Shivers’s legacy, with the museum having recently reopened.

30.Take a drive out FM 256 East – This scenic nature trail, with its sharp curves, is a wonderful drive

34.Jones Country Music Park – An RV park and events center that’s located near Colmesneil on RR 255. What makes it so special is that the late, great American music legend George Jones once lived here.

32.Sunsets over Lake Steinhagen – Brilliant and beautiful.

33.Windmill Farm RV & Bed & Breakfast – has fishing and a shooting range.

35.Harvest Festival – The third weekend in October brings about the folk-life festival at Heritage Village, which is always full of great food, demonstrations, arts and crafts, music and dance.

36.The Tyler County Fair – The sights, smells and fun to be had at the county fairgrounds during the first full weekend of October are a stunning testament to the county’s hard-working young people.

42.Take a swim in a creek – There are many swimmin’ holes to be enjoyed, and almost as fun is trying to discover how to properly say the name of Theuvenins Creek.

43.Buy a knife at Mott’s – Mott’s Hardware/TKC Knives in Spurger is the knife capital of the free world. Specializing in quality Case cutlery, you can find you a new blade, or procure a nice gift for someone.

44.Get some of the Good Lord in your life – There are churches of all denominations in Tyler County. Check out our handy church directory on pages 4244, and find you some faith, fellowship and friends.

37.Historic Cemeteries – Tyler County is home to more than 100 cemeteries, many of them are registered as historic sites. Take a drive down a farmto-market road, find one and pay respects to those who’ve tread before.

38.Golfing at Wildwood – Wildwood is home to an amazing 18-hole course. If golf is your thing, then this is the place to check out.

39.Enjoy some nature – Whether it’s hiking, fishing or just sitting by a creek, there are plenty of beautiful sights to see around the county.

40.Fishing at Rayburn – Again, a lot of beauty to see around these parts, and Lake Sam Rayburn is one of the top bass-fishing spots in the entire nation, maybe the world.

45.Check out the W.T. Colmesneil House – The W.T. Colmesneil House in Colmesneil, is the 19th century home of the train conductor, for whom the city was named. The house, built in 1880, has been lovingly restored and is brimming with history.

46.Help out a good cause – Several great civic organizations can be found in Tyler County. Woodville has a Rotary Club, and Chester and Woodville have Lions chapters. There is also a Woodville-based organization, Sleep in Heavenly Peace, devoted to ending childhood bedlessness with its bed build events. Go lend a hand for the greater good!

47.Take the kids to a park – There are parks with children’s playgrounds in Colmesneil, Woodville and Ivanhoe. Get the kids out, having some fun, and enjoy yourself, as well.

48.Find some bargains – There are plenty of resale stores and thrift shops around, especially in Woodville. Find you a bargain on some nice threads at somewhere like Christine’s Place and grab that knickknack you didn’t know you needed, too.

41.Heritage Village – Sure, we’ve told you about the Pickett House and its life-changing chicken, but the site is also home to a 19th century frontier village, complete with a church, barber shop and oneroom schoolhouse.

49.Cruise a dirt road – There are miles and miles of winding red dirt-topped roads in Tyler County, and if you’ve been on the pavement too long, hop in your truck (or car), put on some good tunes and go a’cruisin’!

50.Enjoy some moonlight on a backporch – Seeing the moon’s glow through the plentiful trees in the area is always a welcome sight, even better if you’re afforded a view from a backporch with the beverage of your choosing.

Hoping through hurt

Local author Finds solace in creativity

By Chris Edwards

Postpartum, or postnatal, depression is a mood disorder that, according to statistics, affects roughly 15% of women after childbirth. Some of the ways it manifests itself include extreme sadness, low energy, anxiety and other depression signifiers. One Tyler County resident struggled with the disorder and found a therapeutic outlet in writing a book.

Jessica Hensarling, a Spurger resident, recently announced the release of her book Mommy, What’s Wrong?, which she said she wrote to help raise awareness of postpartum depression.

“I wrote this book originally in order to fulfill a personal need for my own family to help my toddler understand what I was going through after bringing home her little sister,” she said.

“I battle with postpartum depression…and was desperate for a way to express my emotions to my toddler after the birth of her little sister in a way that she would understand.”

Hensarling wrote the book in the form of a poem, with accompanying illustrations, which she said helps to express the reality of dealing with PPD.

As the blurb on the book states: “You just delivered a child, and suddenly your whole world changes. Emotions are high. Hormones are everywhere. Your body hurts. You question everything. Postpartum depression sneaks up like a thief in the night and steals your joy.” Hensarling added that PPD is not exclusive to new moms, either.

“My hopes are that the book can help other families through this experience, and ultimately help mothers know that they are not alone in their battle with PPD,” she said.

The book, which was published under the Christian Faith Publishing, Inc. imprint, is available through Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Books A Million and other retailers.

The illustrations, Hensarling said, came by way of a team of visual artists who work with the publishing company. “They required very specific details for each illustration, and they worked with me to create my vision,” she said.■

Jessica Hensarling

SHOPPING in Tyler County

Badboy Maverick HD 54” Zero Turn Mower $8,499 Southern Tractor

Cub Cadet CC800 Walk Behind Mower $2,139 Southern Tractor

Kioti CS2520 $16,995 Southern Tractor

Bunn Speed Brew Classic Coffee Maker $119.99 Sullivan’s Hardware

Garden Angel Statue $44.99 Sullivan’s Hardware

Mugs $12.99 ea. Sullivan’s Hardware

Ball Mason Jars 12 Pint (16 oz) $12.99

Sullivan’s Hardware Mixing Bowl $28.99 Sullivan’s Hardware

Wooden Tic Tac Toe $59.95

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Large Wood Framed Pressed Metal Church $54.95

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Texas Opoly Longhorn Tradition Framed Art $99.95

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Crestview Bird Container Set Sm/Lg $99.95

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Page Sofa Style 7100 S Black Vinyl $749.95

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Coaster Phoenix Standing Floor Mirror $399.95

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Wendell August Forge Expressions Dogwood Truffle $34.00 Heritage Village

Let the River Run Wild Book Heritage Village

Coonskin Caps Heritage Village $14.95

Wood &Gold Epoxy Vase $160 Tyler Co. Art League

Blown Glass “Purrfect” $10 Tyler Co. Art League

Decorated Cross $54.95 Tyler Co. Art League

Terra Cotta 2 Koi $130 Tyler Co. Art League Ceramic Lizard Coil Pot with Lid $100 Tyler Co. Art League

Tyler County’s Shining Star

By Chris Edwards

Tyler County’s own James E. White, the former state representative from Hillister, was recently awarded the “Silver Bucket Award” from the Texas Forest Country Partnership (TFCP).

White was given the award for his 12 years of service, representing the former District 19 in the lower chamber of the Texas Legislature at the organization’s summit in Nacogdoches.

White spoke to the crowds at the Fredonia Hotel and Convention Center, where the event was held, and although he joked, initially, about the possibility of being long-winded, he kept his acceptance speech brief.

White called his years of serving in the House “an honor and a blessing,” and thanked his former constituents, and legislators who supported his work, such as Sen. Robert Nichols. Others spoke about White, including fellow Tyler County leaders. County Treasurer Leann Monk called White “our biggest fan,” and said he believes “in the people and communities in his District, but especially in his home. No matter where you see him – Austin, Hillister, Houston or the backroads in Harmony, he’s still telling someone about the great things happening in our county.”

Former County Judge Jacques Blanchette called White a “champion” for his congressional district and a tireless public servant. The Silver Bucket Award is given annually to individuals in the re-

gion serviced by the TFCP who work to create opportunities for economic development and viability. Nichols, who was White’s colleague in the Senate, is a former recipient, as was the late congressman Charlie Wilson.

Other East Texas luminaries, such as Judy McDonald; Dr. Archie McDonald and Judge Allen Sturrock, were also recipients of the award. The late Tyler County Judge Sturrock was actually its first recipient in 1991.

White resigned from office following last year’s redistricting and an unsuccessful bid in the Republican primary to run for the state Commissioner of Agriculture office. Rep. Trent Ashby (R-Lufkin) picked up Tyler and Polk counties.

White praised the current legislators and told the crowd they would continue to fight for their constituents.

The TFCP, which is formerly known as the Pineywoods Economic Partnership, was founded in 1960 as a non-profit economic development organization, according to its website.

The organization serves a 12-county area and is dedicated to enriching the economic prosperity and wellbeing of the region.

The counties serviced by TFCP include Tyler; Angelina; Houston; Jasper; Nacogdoches; Newton; Polk; Sabine; San Augustine; San Jacinto; Shelby and Trinity. Former Ivanhoe Mayor Cathy Bennett, who previously served as TFCP secretary was recently named chairperson of the organization.■

Kimberly Cline, former Community and Constituent Relations Director for James White, and now the Community Relations Director for the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas, poses with White and the award.

Photo courtesy of the Texas Forest Country Partnership

Tyler County is home to many traditions that are celebrated countywide. Here

are a few things to enjoy.

Dogwood Festival – Twenty-twenty three marks the 80th year for the signature festival of Tyler County. Starting March 18-19 with Festival of the Arts Weekend, the festival is three weekends of fun and celebratory events. Weekend two, March 24-25 is Western Weekend, with a parade and a rodeo, and on April 1, the Queen’s Weekend, a new Dogwood Queen will be crowned.

The Tyler County Fair – During the first full weekend of October, the county turns out to the fairgrounds, located west of Woodville on US 190, to see what the young people have been working so hard toward. From show animals to home economics projects and arts and crafts, the fair is the place to be with plenty to see, and lots of great food to eat, too.

The Harvest Festival – During the third weekend of October, Heritage Village plays host to an epic folk-life festival. Blacksmithing demonstrations, live music and indigenous dance are only a few of the sights to see.

Christmas in Tyler County – The Tyler County Chamber of Commerce hosts this event, which happens the first weekend after Thanksgiving, and includes a ton of fun to be had on the square in downtown Woodville on Friday. Saturday features more fun, such as the Rotary Club of Woodville’s pancake breakfast and a cookie market at the Woodville Methodist Church, and of course, Heritage Village hosts the incredible Twilight Tour on Saturday evening, and Ivanhoe has its awesome lighted boat parade.

Kirby Wright is the reigning Dogwood Queen.

Photo by Jim Powers

The Ferris Wheel is always a popular ride at the County Fair. Photo by Chris Edwards Santa Claus arrives on the scene. Photo by Jim Powers

Moments & Memories

Tyler County Fair demonstrates the work of our youth

By Jacob Spivey

One key thing that is important for me to remember about the Tyler County Fair is how many moving parts it takes to get something like the fair rolling. It’s so much more than a livestock show, there are programs like the Home Economics Divisions, which sees big winners in baking, art, sewing and other divisions.

A favorite of mine is the Ag Mechanics Division, a growing program of our fair that sees young people show off their welding and woodworking skills to produce homemade products. And of course, no one has ever complained about how good the fairgrounds smell during the barbecue cook-off.

The moments and memories make the fair so much more special than the money ever could, and we have plenty of memories. Wins and losses can teach us so much, and we see some of both over that four-day period in October where lives are changed. Since transitioning from County Agent to Ag Teacher, I have experienced something that is a totally different kind of memory. While I occasionally have a senior or two in the 4H program, it is usually just a few, as most high school age kids transition to FFA. Advising FFA members at Warren ISD, I have a whole contingent of seniors experience one of their first “lasts” of senior year with their last chance to participate in the Tyler County Fair. The memories of these young people celebrating the end of part of their childhood is certainly a

special thing to be a part of.

I’m often proud of our young people, but I have an outside perspective that makes me feel good about Tyler County. For the past several years, we’ve had a passionate agriculturalist named Megan Dunn serve as our fair photographer.

She does a fantastic job and I hope she stays with us forever. She told me she plans to, because Tyler County is such a special place to her. Not only because we were some of the first folks to hire her when she opened her business and trust her, but because she always enjoys how polite and welcoming the people of Tyler County are. She said it’s one of her favorite fairs because she always feels like family when she’s among us here in Tyler County.

There are plenty of voices we could listen to in this ole world that would tell us how bad things are, in the world, in the country, and even right here in Tyler County. Well, I see the cream of the crop, the best of the best and the very future of Tyler County on display at the fairgrounds, and I can say without reservations, Tyler County is already pretty great.

We’ve got great young people, fantastic volunteers, and supporters, and then when you hear from someone like Megan, you realize that it’s not just that we are good to those who are from here, but that we embrace those who come to make a positive difference. I’m proud to call Tyler County my home, and I don’t know if I could ever express how much I appreciate our county coming together to celebrate our roots and real hometown values in support of agriculture.■

Lily Read, of Chester, took home $18,000 from her Grand Champion steer at last year’s fair. Photo by Megan Dunn

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X-Ray

Members of the Tyler County Historical Commission, along with Nacogdoches resident Maxey Kirkley, celebrated the unveiling of a new sign at Kirkley Springs park, located northwest of Woodville on U.S. 287 in April of 2022. The park, which many mistakenly identify as “Kirkland Springs,” is actually named for Kirkley’s father, the late Maxey Glen Kirkley. Maxey Sr. worked for TxDOT and supervised the construction of the park in the mid-1930s. Kirkley is pictured front row, fourth from left. TCHC members Chuck Davidson; Eleanor Holderman; Mary Nell Rainey and Roschelle Springfield (front row.) Charles Smith; Fred Sullivan and J.D. Richardson (back row) were on hand to celebrate with Kirkley.

Kirkley Springs

By Chuck Davidson

Located about five miles north of Woodville on US 287, the site of the Kirkley Springs roadside park, sits on land donated in 1934 by the Woodville Chamber of Commerce, when James E. Wheat was the Chamber’s president.

These 10.5 acres were soon given plans by the State Park System, and with the approval of the Texas Highway System (part of the Good Roads Movement at that time), the Woodville Camp #891 CCC folks began work on developing the local spring into a roadside park.

Camp Leonard Woods, located on the abandoned fair grounds, opened in June of 1933 after the election of Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1932 and the passage of his “Emergency Conservation Work Act” on March 31 of ’33. This act included the WPA, the NYA, and the Civilian Conservation Corps, aka the CCC.

Texas at this time was moving towards building state parks but had no funding and thus once the CCC was set up to create jobs and create public works projects, the state’s landscape engineer J. Gubbels was able to get Federal funding for roadside improvements. R. W. “John” Wingate worked for the Texas Highway Department and was the supervisor for District 21 (in east Texas). He initiated the idea of small picnic area/ roadside parks building the first one in 1930 in Newton County and soon, a bit ahead of the state, pushed for two more, one in Jasper County and the other in Tyler County. Thus, TC Park 20-229-RP001 on US 287

A brief history of Woodville’s roadside park

five miles north from Woodville was planned.

Wingate put his Tyler County section foreman in charge of this project, Maxey Glenn Kirkley. The state highway department made the plans, the CCC workers out of Woodville did the labor, the NYA paid for their labor, and Kirkley supervised the work. Wingate thus gave the name Kirkley to this picnic area and spring-fed swimming hole, which we now call “Kirkley Springs”.

An interesting aside, the first director of the NYA was L. B. Johnson who served from 1935 to 1937 prior to getting involved in politics, and the CCC workers in Woodville under the authority of the WPA renovated the Tyler County courthouse starting in 1935.

One final note, many current residents have called this park “Kirkland,” due to the large number of folks with that name, mostly all descended from William Snowden Kirkland (1798 SC—1881 TC, TX) who came to Texas from Henry County, Alabama in the 1870’s. Per the 1930 US Census for TC, the families of Wiley Kirkland (49), W D Kirkland (46), J J Kirkland (73), James B Kirkland (40), Jasper N Kirkland (56), George Kirkland (49), and Luther Kirkland (75) were living in Precincts 3, 5, & 6 but none in the immediate area of the park (precincts 1 & 2). No records exist with the highway department or in Tyler County of the name Kirkland ever being given to this park. In 2022, TxDOT installed a sign which clearly reads “Kirkley Springs,” to let visitors know of the park’s name. The son of its namesake, Maxey Kirkley, Jr., was on hand to celebrate the proper christening in April of 2022.■

Photo by Chris Edwards

The small reflecting pool at Kirkley Springs.

Photo by Chris Edwards

New chapters unfolding, history being made

For Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas

By Emily Banks Wooten

New chapters continue to unfold for the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas as they continue making history, bringing much reason for celebration. Last June the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that federal law does not prohibit gaming on tribal lands if that type of gaming is not prohibited by state law. The ruling allows the tribe to continue operating Naskila Gaming, its electronic bingo facility, despite years of efforts by the State of Texas to shut the facility down.

The Court ruled 5-4 that the state does not have the authority to prohibit electronic bingo on tribal lands because electronic bingo is not a game that is prohibited by state law. The decision came in the case of Ysleta del Sur Pueblo v. Texas. Both Ysleta del Sur Pueblo and the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas operate electronic bingo facilities on their reservations.

The decision vacated the 1994 decision by the U.S. Fifth Circuit, effectively declaring that the Fifth Circuit decided the case incorrectly. The decision cleared the way for Naskila to continue operating.

Following the decision, the tribe changed the name of the business from Naskila Gaming to Naskila Casino. Its continued operation is a major win for the East Texas economy. Some 700 jobs are tied to Naskila Gaming and the Texas Forest Country Partnership has estimated the facility produces an annual economic benefit of $170 million to the East Texas region. More than 80 civic and business groups stated formal support for Naskila in recent years.

The case was initially brought by the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo, a tribe in El Paso. Because the Pueblo and the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas had their federal recognition restored in the same act of congress, the Court’s decision impacted the Pueblo and the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe equally.

In other historic activity, the tribe broke ground last year at the site where its new education center will be located. The Alabama-Coushatta Education Center will be a 49,000-square-foot building that will house the tribe’s education department, Head Start Program, tribal library and youth programs. The building will include classrooms, offices, common areas, kitchens for several of the programs, a courtyard, two play yards and a multi-purpose gym. The site will have a general parking lot as well as a secure area for bus parking. It will be located behind the Chief Kina Clinic.

In what was probably the most historic thing of all, the tribe inaugurated two new chiefs at the start of the year, one of them being the tribe’s first ever female chief, a move that begins a whole new chapter in the tribe’s proud history.

Mikko Choba (Principal Chief) Kanicu Donnis Battise and Mikko Istimatokla (Second Chief) Poliika Istaaya Millie Thompson Williams were elected by tribal members in late 2022 and were inaugurated into their new roles by the tribe during a private ceremony on Jan. 1.

Mikko Choba Kanicu is a member of the Bear Clan and speaks the Alabama language. He was married to his beloved wife, Carol, for 51 years. Kanicu graduated from Livingston High School and then served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War era. He previously served the tribe as a member of the tribal council for two terms.

Mikko Kanicu was previously elected as Mikko Istimatokla in 2019. The previous Mikko Choba Skaalaba Herbert G. Johnson, Sr. passed away in August 2021.

Mikko Istimatokla Poliika Istaaya is the first woman to serve as a chief in the history of the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas. She is a lifelong resident of the Alabama-Coushatta tribal community and is also a member of the Bear Clan. She was married to the late Kenneth “Woody” Williams for 47 years. Poliika Istaaya graduated from Angelina College with her associates degree in child/family development and has been an educator and health/mental health coordinator for the tribe’s Head Start Program for over 35 years. She is also a Sunday School teacher at the Indian Village Assembly of God Church, leading the classes in the Alabama language. “This is a historical moment for me as a woman. I never though this is where I would be. As I was growing up, it was predominantly men, but today I’m sitting here in front of you. This is exciting. I was nervous, very nervous, but excited, knowing that God had placed me here,” Williams said.

Principal Chief Battise agreed. “I am proud to have a female chief because it is our history. It has been a long time coming. I’m glad to have her as a partner, as second chief,” he said. While both Battise and Williams are big proponents of education, their other priorities include inviting people to the reservation so that the tribe may continue to share its culture and history with people.

The Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas has the oldest reservation in Texas, located on approximately 10,200 acres between Polk and Tyler counties. The tribe is a fully functioning sovereign government with a full array of health and human services, including law enforcement and emergency services. There are more than 1,400 tribal members, about half of whom live on the reservation. The tribe is governed by an elected tribal council and advised by the principal chief and second chief.

a divine cocktail

French 75

1 ounce gin

1/2 ounce lemon juice, freshly squeezed 1/2 oz simple syrup

3 ounces champagne (or other sparkling wine)

Garnish: lemon twist

Add the gin, lemon juice and simple syrup to a shaker with ice and shake until well-chilled.

Strain into glass

Top with champagne

Garnish with a lemon twist.

Classic White Russian

ounces Vodka

1 ounce Kahlua

1 ounce heavy cream

Ice for serving

Add the vodka and Kahlua to a low ball glass. Fill it with ice.

Top with cream. Stir until cold (or stir just a bit to get the swirl effect.)

Jameson Irish Whiskey

“Some of my ancestors rode over on a boat from Ireland, so it’s only right and natural that I have a taste for Irish whiskey, be it Bushmills or Tullamore Dew, or that old trusty standby Jameson. My go-to cocktail at a restaurant or bar is three parts: one (1) highball glass; three (3) cubes of ice* and a double helping of Jameson Irish Whiskey.

– Chris Edwards

*NOTE: Any more than three cubes of ice in a cocktail is unnecessary. Drink like adults, folks.”

Jamaican Sunrise

2 oz Vodka

2 oz Peach Schnapps

1 oz Cranberry Juice

4 oz Orange Juice

1/2 oz Grenadine

Garnish: Orange Slice and/or Cherry

Pour vodka, peach schnapps, orange juice and cranberry uice into a glass and mix well. Add grenadine. It will float to the bottom. Do not stir. Garnish with orange slice and cherry

Long Island Iced Tea

2 cups ice cubes

1 ounce vodka

1 ounce gin

i ounce white rum

i ounce white tequila

1/2 ounce Triple Sec

2 TBS. freshly squeezed lemon juice

1/2 cup cola, or to taste

2 lemon wedges

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Pour the vodka, gin, run, tequila, Triple Sec an dlemon juice into the shaker. Cover and shake vigorously to combine and chill. Pour the mixture, ice and all, into 2 glasses or beer mugs and top off with the cola. Garnish with lemon wedges. Serve.

Combine all ingredients in a shaker, shake and strain into salted rocks glass. Garnish with lime wedge.

Thinking about calling Tyler County home?

SERVICE GUIDE SERVICE GUIDE

CITY OFFICES

City of Chester

936.969.2360

141 Cade St., Chester 75936

Mayor Robert Poynter

City of Colmesneil

409.837.5211

204 W. Elder, Colmesneil 75938

Mayor Duane Crews

City of Ivanhoe

409.283.3299

870 Charmaine Dr. East, Woodville 75979

Mayor Skip Blackstone

Ivanhoe Municipal Court

409.444.7048

Ivanhoe City Marshall

409.283.3299

City of Woodville

409.283.2234

400 W. Bluff, Woodville 75979

Mayor Amy Bythewood

Woodville Municipal Court

409.283.3255

Woodville Police Dept.

113 N. Charlton, Woodville 75979

409.283.5262

Police Chief Michael McCulley

COUNTY OFFICES

Chamber of Commerce

717 W. Bluff St., Woodville 75979

409.283.2632

tylercountycoc.com

Veterans Services

200 Veterans Way #200, Woodville 75979

409.283.3751

Sheriff’s Dept.

702 N. Magnolia, Woodville 75979

409.283.2172

Sheriff Bryan Weatherford

Courthouse

100 W. Bluff, Woodville75979

409-283-2141

County Judge Milton Powers

District Attorney’s Office

100 W. Bluff, Annex Building, Woodville 75979

409.283.8136

District Attorney Lucas Babin

Office of Emergency Management

201 Veterans Way #19, Woodville 75979 409.331.0874

STATE

Texas Dept. of Public Safety

Driver’s License Division 409.331.8175 Highway Patrol 409.283.2771

Texas Dept. of Criminal Justice Gibb Lewis Unit 777 FM 3497, Woodville 75979 409.283.8181

Texas Dept. of Health & Human Services 930 N. Magnolia, Woodville 75979 409.283.3765

PLACES OF INTEREST

Allan Shivers Library and Museum 302 N. Charlton, Woodville 75979 409.283.3709

Heritage Village Museum 206 US Hwy. 190, Woodville 75979 409.283.2272

WT Colmesneil Library and Museum

106 S. Pitzer St., Colmesneil 75938 409.837.9946

Naskila Casino 540 State Park Rd. 56, Livingston 77351 936.563.2946

Tyler County Art District 210/216 W. Bluff, Woodville 75979 Art Gallery: 409.242.7851 tylercountyartleague.org

Emporium for the Arts: 409.283.3832 emporiumstage.org

SCHOOL DISTRICTS

Chester ISD 273 Yellowjacket Dr., Chester 75936 936.969.2211

Colmesneil ISD 610 W. Elder, Colmesneil 75938 409.837.5757

Spurger ISD 12212 Hwy. 92 N. Spurger, 77660 409.429.3464

Warren ISD 375 FM 3290 S. Warren, 77664 409.547.2240

Woodville ISD 505 N. Charlton St., Woodville75979 409.283.3752

GOVERNMENT

U.S. Congressman Brian Babin Woodville District Office 100 W. Bluff St., Woodville 75979 409.331.8066

Washington, D.C Office

US Senator John Cornyn 100 E. Ferguson St., Suite 1004 Tyler, TX 75702 903.593.0902

Washington, D.C. Office

US Senator Ted Cruz 305 S. Broadway, Suite 501 Tyler, TX 75702 903.593.5130

State Senator Robert Nichols District Office

2915 Adkinson Dr., Lufkin 75901 936.699.4988

State Representative Trent Ashby District Office

2915 Adkinson Dr., Lufkin 75901 936.634.2762

State Board of Education Julie Pickren 3422 Business Center Dr., Suite 106--7 Pearland 77584 361.585.4389 julie.pickren@tea.texas.gov

UTILITY PROVIDERS

Electricity Entergy 800.368.3749

Sam Houston Electric 409.283.8251

Water Chester Water Supply Corporation 936.969.2360

Tyler County Special Utility District 409.429.3996

Cypress Creek Water Supply 409.283.5472

Seneca Water Supply Corporation 409.283.7116

Warren Water Supply Corporation 409.547.2719

Woodville City Office 409.283.2234

Colmesneil City Office 409.837.5211

SouthWest Water Company (Ivanhoe Provider) 866.654.7992

Natural Gas

Shaw Butane 936.642.1131

Tyler County Propane 409.877.4427

INTERNET PROVIDERS

AT&T 855.441.4668

HughesNet 855.628.0334

Viasat 844.385.8736

Earthlink 855.587.1417

Kinetic by Windstream

844.495.6324

Frontier 855.410.2209

GARBAGE SERVICES

Local Sanitation

409.224.1780

Pineywoods Sanitation

936.969.2291

800.324.2092

MEDICAL SERVICES

Tyler County Hospital

1100 W. Bluff, Woodville 75979

409.283.8141

Tyler County Family Medical Clinic

104 N. Beech St., Woodville 75979

409.283.2822

Dedicated Medical Urgent Care Center

703 W. Bluff St., Woodville 75979

409.200.2811

Fred Health Care 20290 FM 92 S., Fred, TX 77616

409.429.9494

The Children’s Clinic of Woodville

900 W. Bluff St., Woodville 75979

409.283.2090

Riceland Healthcare Clinic

403 S. Magnolia St., Woodville 75979

409.283.2888

Dogwood Family Cllinic

613 W. Bluff St., Woodville 75979

409.331.1000

Woodville Family Healthcare

920 S. Magnolia St., Woodville 75979

409.283.5556

Lambeth Physical Therapy

1121 US-69, Woodville 75979

409.200.2804

Woodville Chiropratic Center

1101 W. Bluff, Woodville 75979

409.283.2633

Tyler County Booster

205 W. Bluff, Woodville 75979

409.283.2516

FOOD

Caring is Sharing Woodville

409.283.5800

Catholic Charities

409.924.4400

East Texas Support Services Senior Nutrition

409.283.2400

Heavenly Blessings Food Pantry Colmesneil

409.429.8639

Lakeside Apostolic Church

Town Bluff/Dam B

409.429.3788

New Shady Grove Baptist

Woodville

409.283.2218

SNAP Food Stamps/Lonestar

409.283.3765

Spurger United Methodist Church

Spurger

409.429.3401

Warren Methodist Warren

409.547.2558

Women, Infant & Children (WIC)

Woodville

409.283.2667

Nutrition Center 201 Veterans Way, Woodville75979

409.283.2400

VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPTS.

Colmesneil VFD 409.837.9628

Dam B VFD 409.429.4554

Fred VFD 409.429.7568

Ivanhoe VFD 409.283.5411

Shady Grove VFD 409.384.0970

Spurger VFD 409.429.5339

Warren VFD 409.547.2553

Whitetail Ridge VFD 409.283.8452

Woodville VFD 409.283.2103

Agape Church

We are generations together reaching others with love, connecting them to Jesus, growing them in truth, serving them everywhere.

Sunday Schedule: Bible Study Groups 9:30 am Worship Gathering 10:45 am

MASS

Saturdays: 4:30 PM (English) 6:30 PM (Spanish)

Sundays: 9:00 AM (English) 1601 North Pine St Woodville, Texas

Woodville Church of Christ

Sunday Morning Bible Class 9:30

Sunday Morning Worship 10:30

Sunday Evening Worship 5:00 (except first Sunday) Wednesday Bible Study 6:00 pm

Keith Bellamy, Minister

Victory in Jesus

Baptist Church

You are welcome here. - Pastor August S. Francis

Sunday Schedule

Sunday School 10am

Worship & The Word 11am Evangelistic Service 6 pm

Mid-week

Q&A Tuesday 12 noon | Wednesday 6pm

1805 W Bluff, Woodville, TX 75979 | 409-283-5977 Watch

13626 FM 1746, Woodville, TX 75979 | vijbc.org 409-429-3460 • 409-499-6951

Dogwood Hills

BAPTIST CHURCH

Our committment is to fulfill the Great Commission through love for God and others.

Worship Services & Times

Sunday: Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Worship Service 11:00 a.m. Choir practice following Worship Service

Woodville

METHODIST CHURCH

A congregation of the Global Methodist Church

NURTURE REACH OUT WITNESS

Worship 10:50 a.m.

508 W Bluff St., Woodville, Tx 75979 409-283-2471

woodvillemethodistchurch.com

Wednesday: Children’s Ministry 6:00 p.m. Student Ministry 6:00 p.m. Prayer Meeting/Bible Study 6:00 p.m.

Bro. Jerry Dubose, Pastor 823 US Hwy. 190 W. Woodville, TX 75979 409-283-3202

Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. dogwoodhillsbaptistchurch.org

Tyler County Church directory

ASSEMBLY OF GOD

ASSEMBLY OF GOD

493 CR 4450, Hillister | 283-2725

SHADY GROVE COMMUNITY Hwy 190 W. & CR 2175 936-208-0453

APOSTOLIC

JESUS’ NAME APOSTOLIC TABERNACLE 120 FM 3290, Warren | 547-2238

LAKESIDE APOSTOLIC FM 92, Spurger | 429-3525

FIRST ASSEMBLY OF GOD 404 N. Wheeler St., Colmesneil 837-4496

HILLISTER ASSEMBLY OF GOD

493 CR 4450, Hillister | 283-7549

OAK GROVE ASSEMBLY OF GOD 18459 FM 92 Rd. S., Fred 429-5318

TRINITY ASSEMBLY OF GOD 120 CR 1095, Woodville 283-2447

ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP 12065 Hwy 190 E., Woodville 283-3324

BAPTIST

ALINE INDEPENDENT BAPTIST

250 FM 3065, Colmesneil BETHANY BAPTIST 1880 CR 2570, Colmesneil

COMMUNITY BAPTIST 15156 FM 92 Rd. S., Spurger 429-3101

BEECH CREEK BAPTIST 437 CR 4540, Spurger | 429-3537

BETHEL BAPTIST 334 FM 1943 W., Warren 547-3201

CALVARY BAPTIST 909 N. Magnolia St., Woodville 283-2004

CAMPGROUND BAPTIST

295 CR 2075, Woodville 409-385-7350

CAMP ZION BAPTIST 268 CR 3100, Doucette 283-5497

CANEY CREEK BAPTIST FM 1745, Chester | 969-2220

CHESTER BAPTIST Chester | 969-2311

CHURCH NEW LIFE BAPTIST 105 Avalon Ct., Woodville 283-2333

CHURCH NEW LIFE BAPTIST 213 CR 1075, Woodville 283-7002

DOGWOOD HILLS BAPTIST 823 US Hwy 190 W., Woodville 283-3202

EMMANUEL BAPTIST Hwy 69, Colmesneil | 837-5260

ENON BAPTIST FM 1745, Chester | 969-2394

FAIRVIEW BAPTIST 3025 FM 92 S., Woodville 489-3083

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH WARREN

11645 US Hwy 69 S., Warren 547-2215

FIRST BAPTIST DOUCETTE 2245 Hwy 69 N., Woodville

FIRST BAPTIST COLMESNEIL 208 W. Elder St., Colmesneil 837-5439

FIRST BAPTIST SPURGER 12676 FM 92 S., Spurger 429-3116

FIRST BAPTIST WOODVILLE 202 S. Charlton St., Woodville 283-2588

FIRST SHILOH BAPTIST 114 CR 2310, Woodville 283-8700

GRACE BAPTIST CHURCH 148 CR 3260, Colmesneil

HARMONY BAPTIST CHURCH 3020 FM 2565, Woodville

HEBRON CHURCH 504 CR 1875, Village Mills 409-834-6240

HILLISTER BAPTIST 258 FM 1013 Rd., Hillister 283-3350

HILLTOP BAPTIST

11472 US Hwy 190 E., Dam B 409-550-6371

KATY BAPTIST N. Pitzer St., Colmesneil

837-2022

LITTLE BAPTIST 351 CR 4494, Hillister

LITTLE FLOCK BAPTIST 1284 CR 4490, Hillister | 547-3336

MT. HOPE BAPTIST 400 N. Rail Road Ave., Colmesneil

MOSS MILL MISSIONARY BAPTIST Hwy 190 E., Woodville 283-3166

MT CARMEL BAPTIST Hwy 255, Colmesneil | 283-7513

MT NEBO BAPTIST

13259 FM 1943 Rd E., Fred 4295579

MT OLIVET BAPTIST FM 92, Fred | 429-3234

MT SINAI BAPTIST 972 CR 3750, Colmesneil 283-8566

NEW HOPE BAPTIST CHURCH 714 CR 4525, Warren

NEW PILGRIM BAPTIST 385 CR 4252, Woodville 283-7227

NEW SHADY GROVE BAPTIST 5514 US Hwy 190 E., Woodville 283-2218

NEW ZION BAPTIST CR 4415 off Hwy 92, Spurger 429-5089

PALESTINE BAPTIST

1346 E. Caney Loop, Chester 969-2524

PILGRIM REST BAPTIST 80 Cobb Mill Rd., Woodville 2833904

PINEYWOODS BAPTIST 4945 FM 256 E., Colmesneil 409-837-9669

PLEASANT HILL BAPTIST 4274 FM 2992, Spurger 429-7695

PLEASANT HILL BAPTIST 401 Elm, Woodville | 283-3008

ROCKLAND BAPTIST Rockland | 409-504-6124

SPRINGHILL MISSIONARY BAPTIST

Springhill Rd., Woodville 283-5792

TEJAS ROAD BAPTIST Hwy 69 N., Colmesneil 409-837-9717

TRUE VINE BAPTIST

2626 US Hwy 69 N., Doucette 283-6863

VICTORY IN JESUS BAPTIST

13626 FM 1746, Woodville 409-429-3460

WARREN CHAPEL BAPTIST

1482 CR 4470, Warren 547-0165

WOODVILLE MISSIONARY BAPTIST

1446 FM 1746, Woodville

ZION HILL MISSIONARY BAPTIST

Hwy 69, Colmesneil | 837-2064

BIBLE

GRACE BIBLE FELLOWSHIP

23276 FM 92 S., Fred | 429-5115

CATHOLIC

OUR LADY OF PINES CATHOLIC

1601 N. Pine St., Woodville 2835367

CHURCH OF CHRIST

HILLISTER CHURCH OF CHRIST CR 4455 #1262, Hillister

WARREN CHURCH OF CHRIST 357 CR 4475, Warren | 547-0064

WOODVILLE CHURCH OF CHRIST Hwy 190 W., Woodville 283-5977

COGIC WHITE’S CHAPEL 302 Blackgum St., Woodville 409-200-4676

HOUSE OF PRAYER CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST 1098 CR 4470, Warren

COWBOY CHURCH

TYLER COUNTY COWBOY CHURCH

685 FM 256 N., Woodville 409-200-2014

EPISCOPAL

ST PAUL’S EPISCOPAL

1703 W. Bluff St., Woodville 2833710

GOSPEL

WOODVILLE GOSPEL TABERNACLE 1561 US Hwy 69 N., Woodville 283-2156

JEHOVAHS WITNESS

KINGDOM HALL

JEHOVAH’S WITNESS

Highway 190 W., Woodville 28375979

LUTHERAN

FAITH LUTHERAN 704 W. Holly St., Woodville 238-7171

METHODIST

HOPEWELL FIRST CONGREGATIONAL

METHODIST

190 E., Woodville 283-2874

SPURGER METHODIST

13237 FM 1013 Rd., Spurger 429-3401

WARREN METHODIST

11774 US Hwy 69 S., Warren

WOODVILLE METHODIST

508 W. Bluff St. | 283-2471

HOPE UNITED METHODIST 296 CR 2615, Chester

Email: umc.arise.etx@gmail.com

CHURCH OF CHRIST LDS

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER- DAY SAINTS

1000 N. Pine St., Woodville 283-2236

NON - DENOMINATIONAL

AGAPE CHURCH

1102 FM 1745 N., Colmesneil 837-4434

BELIEVERS TEMPLE FAMILY 203 W. Bluff, Woodville

BIBLE BELIEVERS TABERNACLE 12978 US 69 S., Warren 936-969-2220

FAMILY WORSHIP CENTER 145 CR 1270, Warren 547-0255

FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 123 CR 4260, Woodville 283-2161

NEW BEGINNINGS PRAISE & WORSHIP

501 CR 3330, Colmesneil 837-2210

SEED OF FAITH WORSHIP CENTER

501 S. Beaver St., Woodville

WOODVILLE GOSPEL TABERNACLE

1561 US Hwy 69 N., 409-283-0090

PENTECOSTAL

FAITH TABERNACLE PENTECOSTAL Hwy 1013, Hillister | 720-9864

THE PENTECOSTALS OF WOODVILLE 1613 W. Bluff St., Woodville 2832049

PROTESTANT

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST 16140 CR 4755, Warren 409-547-3733

INTERDENOMINATIONAL

GOOD SAMARITAN FELLOWSHIP

21544 FM 92 S., Fred 429-3777

AROUND THE COUNTY