Discover Jefferson

Come Be Part of Our Family

Welcome to Jefferson, Texas, the Bed and Breakfast Capital of Texas! On behalf of the City of Jefferson, its citizens, and all the residents of Marion County, I want to welcome, and thank you for choosing to spend some of your time with us. I hope you enjoy your time in our town and the surrounding area.

Spring is a time of renewal and growth and Jefferson and Marion County have so many things which allow one to enjoy the new season.

If you’re a frequent traveler to Jefferson, welcome back! If you’re planning your first visit, rest assured, there are things to fit every desire

while you’re here – from quiet, romantic getaways, to weekends full of celebration, Jefferson has it all. Either way though, we’ll treat you like family and we welcome you to become part of ours.

Let our Visitor’s Center know how they can help make your visit memorable. We look forward to seeing you!

Rob Baker Mayor City of Jefferson

Spring Events in Jefferson

Following is a list of events scheduled for April, May and June 2022.

April

March 30, April 1 Marion County Chamber of Commerce Citywide Rummage Sale.

1 Spring History, Haunts and Legends *History, Mystery and the Unexplained, *Special Guest Speakers, *Book Signings, *Vendors, *Night Time Investigations. Ticket: 903-601-3375

8 Historic Jefferson Railway Easter Egg Express – gas-powered locomotive Includes stop at the Diamond Don Gator Pit for alligator feeding (weather permitting) Saturday Narrated Historical Day Tours: 12:30p and 2:30p Come ride the Easter Egg Express and participate in an Easter Egg Hunt for children under 12.

14-15 Outlaw Nationals. See story in this edition

May

4-7 Jefferson Pilgrimage & Diamond Bessie Murder Trial play. See story in this issue

6 Historic Jefferson Railway Pilgrimage Express – gas-powered locomotive Includes stop at the Diamond Don Gator Pit for alligator feeding (weather permitting) Saturday Narrated Historical Day Tours: 12:30p and 2:30p Enjoy the unique wildlife and wetlands of a ride along the Big Cypress Bayou to include stop at the alligator pit.

5-7 Battle of Big Cypress Bayou See story this issue.

13 Historic Jefferson Railway Mother’s

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YesterYear Gift shop

& Classy Glitz Boutique

• Unique Gifts Crosses, Hats, Frames, Ornaments & Nutcrackers for Military, Fire, Police, EMS, Doctor, Nurse & More! Collegiate Gift Items, Tea Sets & Dolls! Handmade Baby & Lap Quilts, Historical Jefferson Afghans, Western Items, Seasonal Flags, Texas Spices, Unique Salt & Pepper Shakers, Knives, Tin Signs, Texas Décor, Biker Gifts, Tyler Candles, Wedding & Annivesary Gifts!

• Classy Clothing & Accessories Sizes (S/3XL), New Jewelry & Purses!

Collectibles Jim Shore, Possible Dreams, Nutcrackers, Snowbabies, Pie Birds, Joseph’s Studio

by Roman, Painted Ponies, Fontanini, The Willow Tree Figurines, Disney, Grinch, Peanuts & more!

• Christmas All Year Dept. 56 Lighted Houses & Village Accessories, Special Assortment of Santas, Angels & Nativity Sets!

• Ornaments - For All Seasons & Reasons Old World Christmas Ornaments, Baby, Wedding, Animals, Military, Birds, Jefferson Ornaments & Many More!

We Can Personalize Most Ornaments! yesteryeargiftshoptx www.yesteryeargiftshop.com yesteryr@swbell.net

Spring Events

...Continued From Page 9

Day Express Saturday Narrated Historical Day Tours: 12:30p and 2:30p.

14-15 Jefferson Train Days & Show. See story in this issue.

19 Civil War Living History, “Day of Learning”, complete with a gunboat and cannons 9–2:30 at Diamond Don RV Park Open to the public and all children,

19-21 Civil War Days, gas-powered locomotive Includes stop at the Diamond Don Gator Pit for alligator feeding (weather permitting) Friday Narrated Historical Day Tours 10:30a, 11:30a, 12:30p; Saturday: 11a, 12:30p, 2:30p; Sunday: 12:30p

June

1-3 Big Cypress Corevette Show Weekend. See story this issue.

17 Historic Jefferson Railway Father’s Day Express– Saturday Narrated Historical Day Tours: 12:30p and 2:30p

Save the Date

July 4 Jefferson Salutes America

October 13-14 Jefferson Burn Benefit

November 30-December 2 Jefferson Candlelight Tours

Rates Start @ $99

Friday and Saturday 4 course gourmet dinner with beverages included $59.95

($49.95 for Guests) Reservations required, limited seating

• Pet Friendly

• Kid Friendly

• All Rooms & Cottages On One Story

• 2 Course Gourmet Breakfast Served Every Day

• Walking Distance to Downtown and the Historic District

Growing Up Jefferson Will Work for Food and Other Adventures

By John Taylor

Hot

Dogs

If my previous description of a Jefferson hot dog confused you, this will not help. But try to pay attention anyway.

Jefferson Rule Number 1: All hot dogs have chili on them.

Jefferson Rule Number 2: All hot dogs do not necessarily have a wiener.

Jefferson Rule Number 3: A chili dog is to without (wieners), as a hot dog is to with (wieners), by associative property or some such. Are we clear now?

Good. To be a fast food gourmand in my childhood, the hot dog lexicon was mastered early. The Dairy Queen served hot dogs and chili dogs; everyone else served hot dogs with and without—wieners. But

they all had chili, right? Now we’re ready to begin.

My “go to” fast food mecca, Greeney’s, was located on the northwest corner of the Polk and Henderson Streets intersection.

You might recognize that as today’s location of the Museum of Measurement and Time, although it is not the same building. Not even close.

Greeney’s was a very small structure. I say very small because I’m not sure I can spell Lilliputian. Rectangular shaped, with an east-west orientation, its screened door entrance was off Polk Street.

The exterior walls were tan stucco. A plate glass window in front and on the side allowed light and a view of highway traffic (Polk Street was Business U. S. Highway

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‘Celebrate Spring’ with Historic Jefferson Pilgrimage

The Jessie Allen Wise Garden Club takes great pride in presenting our 76th Historic Jefferson Pilgrimage “Celebrate Spring” May 4-7, 2023. Jefferson sits on the banks of the Cypress River, romanced by our wonderfully and lovingly restored historic homes and buildings while reveling in all of our events and attractions.

We revere our rich history while living enthusiastically in the present, looking forward to the future with hope and promise. We encourage you to enjoy our 76th Historic Jefferson Pilgrimage and everything that Jefferson has to offer during this special weekend.

Diamond Bessie Murder Trial. The 69th Diamond Bessie Murder Trial kicks off Pilgrimage with the first of five performances beginning Thursday evening, May 4, at 7:30 p.m. Other performances of the play are on Friday, May 5, at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, May 6, at 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m., and Sunday, May 7, at 2 p.m.

This captivating drama is based on the true story of a murder and a subsequent trial which occurred in Jefferson in 1877. All performances of the play are held in the Jefferson Playhouse at the corner of Market and Henderson streets. Tickets for the 69th Diamond Bessie Murder Trial may be purchased beginning Feb. 1, 2023 by calling Sandra Hall on the Diamond Bessie ticket-line 903-665-0737. Advanced ticket purchase is strongly advised. Tickets are non-refundable.

Home and Garden Tours. Four beautiful homes, The Keasler-Blair Haus, The Thurman Place, The Governor’s House and Chez Lafayette, will be open for visitors between the hours of 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Docents, dressed in period costumes, will greet visitors to the homes, giving the history of the homes and

the Jefferson families who built and lived in them through the years. Garden Tours: Four lovely gardens, The Sanders Garden, The Otstott Garden, The Steele Garden and the Excelsior Courtyard Garden will be open for visitors to enjoy between the hours of 5 p.m.-7:30 p.m. on Friday, May 5, and Saturday, May 6. Home and Garden Tour Tickets may be purchased at Pilgrimage Headquarters in front of the Excelsior House, 211 W. Austin Street, beginning at 9:30 a.m. each day. Cost is $25 each. Tickets may also be purchased online at www.jeffersonpilgrimage.com for a discounted price of $24 each. Tickets are non-refundable.

Parade. At 10 a.m. on Saturday an array of floats, old cars, buggies, bands and horses will make its way through town. RW Builders will be the parade Grand Marshal. Pilgrimage Grand Ballroom & Courtyard Luncheon. After the parade, lunch will be served in the Grand Ballroom and Courtyard of the Excelsior House. The delicious salad luncheon is provided and served by Jessie Allen Wise Garden Club members from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. at a cost of $20. Reservations for this luncheon are encouraged; visit www.jeffersonpilgrimage.com. Online Luncheon ticket sales will end April 20. Tickets are non-refundable.

Plant Sale. The Jessie Allen Wise Garden Club’s plant sale is located on the porch of the Excelsior House. The Plant Sale committee has some surprise additions to the sale for 2023. The sale contains many reasonably priced plants, some of which have been started from cuttings of local heirloom plants by the members of the club. Take time to browse from 8 a.m.–4 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

Continued on page 42...

Jefferson Train Show Fun For All

The Historic Jefferson Train Show, along with Jefferson Train Days is steaming back into town May 20-21, and is sponsored by the Jefferson and Cypress Bayou Model Railroad Club.

“This year, we’ve continued our partnership with Lonesome Dove Drive-Thru Safari,” said event organizer Normal Buell.

He said the Historic Jefferson Train Show will include model train exhibits and vendors at the Jefferson Tourism Building.

“We will have several model railroads,” Buell said. “This year we’ll even have a Lego railroad.”

Admission at the tourism building will be $8.

The weekend will include a discount at the Lonesome Dove Drive-Thru Safari. The Safari has over 500 animals in

80 different species as well as a 15-inch guage train ride.

Train rides and each location will be subject to additional admission fees.

“We are excited to offer model trains and experiences with actual trains,” Buell said. “This year’s show should have something for everyone.”

Cavalera Leather and Cigar Co and the Big Red Bus are also helping sponsor the event this year.

The Jefferson & Cypress Bayou Model Railroad Club was founded in 2012. They hosted the first Historic Jefferson Train Show that same year.

Proceeds from the show goes back to the group whose primary role in the community is the staff the R.D. Moses Texas & Pacific Model Railway Museum in Jefferson.

Pilgrimage Tour of Homes

Keasler-Blair Haus 401 E. Walker Street

Built in the 1930s, this Arts and Crafts style house has been reconstructed by Harold and Meriam Blair to represent a pre-civil war Jefferson German home. As early as 1847, German immigrants were arriving in Jefferson by ox-wagon and steamboat. Research documents them as landowners, merchants, tradesmen and importers/exporters – even the local confectioner was German.

The Keasler­Blair Haus reflects its German heritage during antebellum Jefferson. As an early middle class immigrant home it is neither formal nor primitive, but of “high-country” style.

The home has painted and stenciled walls and floors, in contrast to those of the more affluent with their wallpaper and fine woods. It is furnished with antique clocks, armoires and traveling chests as well as American made antiques of the same period.

Handmade rugs and historic textiles bring beauty, warmth and color to the home. It is typical of a home built by a period craftsman who had access to readily available, and affordable, supplies such as high quality paints, dyes and building ma-

terials.

While in the home, take time to visit with Harold as he portrays Herr Adolf Bussineber, a schreiner (cabinetmaker), who arrived in Jefferson from Germany in 1851.

Complementing the home is Meriam’s country style garden. You are invited to walk the garden replete with heirloom plants rescued from original Jefferson home sites and other Deep East Texas locales. The garden is full of long forgotten plants which have now been identified and nurtured. With much effort, many of these plants are re-propagated to the point where they are being shared and reintroduced in other gardens.

Meriam and Harold Blair welcome you to “Celebrate Spring” as you tour their home during the 76th Jefferson Pilgrimage.

Pilgrimage Tour of Homes

The Thurman Place 207 S. Alley Street

The Thurman Place is one of the oldest homes in Jefferson. It was originally built in 1857 by P.M. Graham, who later served in the Confederate Army. The home was purchased in 1859 by merchant Theo Nichols, who gave it to his daughter, Mrs. Samuel Thurman in 1882. The Thurman had a deer park on the west side of the block and lived in the home until 1906, thus giving the property its lasting name.

Interesting to note, when Samuel Thurman came to Jefferson in 1871 via New Orleans, the trip took 31 days. He took a steamboat to Shreveport, then travelled by rail to Marshall and caught a stagecoach to Jefferson. During the Civil War, Samuel served as a private in Company A, 3rd Regiment under General Walker, Army of Virginia. He was born in Lynchburg, Virginia, on March 6, 1847. Clara M. Nicholas married Samuel Thurman in Jefferson on October 29, 1874. The Thurmans had a grocery store in Jefferson and attended the

Jefferson Methodist Episcopal Church. Samuel was the Nobel Grand of the local Oddfellows Lodge No. 362.

The property was recorded as a Texas Historic Landmark in 1972; and, in July 2003, an article in Southern Living Magazine featured the kitchen’s timeless charm.

Current owners, Elaine and Ken Altman, purchased the home in December 2014. The home’s decor is a mixture of traditional and modern which showcases the things they love. This is the first time the home has been open for tour.

Elaine and Ken welcome you to tour their home during the 76th Historic Jefferson Pilgrimage as you “Celebrate Spring” in Jefferson.

Pilgrimage Tour of Homes

Chez Lafayette 305 W. Lafayette

Chez Lafayette is a rock house built in 1935 near the end of the Great Depression. It is located on Lafayette Street near downtown Jefferson and next door to the Historic Carnegie Library.

Native rock was plentiful in Marion County at that time, and landowners cleared their land and donated the rock to help their neighbors build many structures in Jefferson. Chez Lafayette is one example of this kind of construction.

The original owners of the home were Malachi and Caroline “Carrie” Greeney. For many years, the Greeneys operated a very popular hamburger and hot dog stand in town.

Through the years, several updates and a guest cottage have been made to Chez Lafayette. A major update in 1999 by the

previous owner, Beth Crawford, gives the rock a warm cappuccino appearance.

The home is enhanced by a picturesque side courtyard and garden area. Current owners, Paula and Keith Cole, purchased the home in May 2021, and filled the home with their collection of outstanding antiques and furnishings acquired through the years.

Paula and Keith welcome you to tour their home as you “Celebrate Spring” during the 76th Historic Jefferson Pilgrimage.

Pilgrimage Tour of Homes

Governor’s House 321 N. Walnut

In 1868, David B. Culberson and his wife, Eugenia, built The Governor’s House as a wedding present for their son Charles Allen Culberson and his new bride Sally Harrison. The home features Greek Revival styling with 12-foot ceilings.

The young Culbersons moved into the house following his graduation from Virginia Military Institute with a law degree. His political ambitions soon led them to Dallas, and a career that included Attorney General and Governor of Texas, and ultimately United States Senator. He served many years as Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee. Interestingly, his father had served in a similar capacity in the House.

In the meantime, Swedish immigrants bought the house, and in 1910, their daughter Ethel Mae Leaf married Jesse M. DeWare, Jr. the forbearer of several successful generations of Jefferson residents. The senior Leafs added to the L-shaped dwelling with the ornamental columns and trim favored in the late 1800s. The DeWare family squared the house, attached the kitchen and dining room building and

maintained the home through the next two generations.

LaWanda and Bill Golden purchased the house in 1992 and immediately began restoration. For 18 years, while living in the back two rooms, the Goldens operated the home as a B&B. It sold two more times during the next six years.

Current residents, Linda and Howard Blatch, purchased the home in 2016. The Blatches are both artists, and have spent 50 years living in and lovingly restoring the old homes they purchased. The Governor’s House, which they consider a real Jewel, is a continuation of their many talents.

Linda and Howard welcome you to tour their home during the 76th Historic Jefferson Pilgrimage “Celebrate Spring.”

Your Ticket To Fun

Take a narrated ride aboard an antique narrow-gauge train along the historic Big Cypress Bayou. Rides include stop at Diamond Don Gator Pit for photo op of live

Trains will only run on these dates:

Big

Friday, May 19, 2023

LIVING HISTORY & TRAIN

RIDES

Diamond Don RV Park

9:00-2:00

Public Welcome

$10.00, lap children free

On Saturday and Sunday, come experience the re-enactment of The Andrews Raid, the Civil War’s most gripping railroad story, aboard an antique gas-powered train. Keep your seat as the soldiers battle around you and a replica ironclad gunboat fires its cannons from the banks of the Big Cypress Bayou River.

MAY 20 AND 21, 2023 TRAIN RIDES

Saturday trains depart at 11:00, 12:30, & 2:30

Sunday train departs at 12:30

$15 plus tax, lap children free

DEPARTS FROM TRAIN DEPOT DOWNTOWN Historic

Great Locomotive Chase

Come experience the re-enactment of The Great Locomotive Chase - The Andrews Raid, the Civil War’s most gripping railroad story aboard an antique gas-powered locomotive at Historic Jefferson Railway. See the North and South skirmish a replica ironclad gunboat firing its cannons on the banks of the Big Cypress Bayou River.

On Friday May 19, 2023, there will be a Living History Day, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., at the Diamond Don RV Park to draw attention to the history and romance of the Civil War way of life. This event is open to the general public and is perfect for children and all adults. The Living History Camps will demonstrate Camp Life and Military Activities and includes an optional train ride aboard an antique gas-powered locomotive. The Historic Jefferson Railway narrator tells the story of The Andrews Raid as the train travels alongside the Big Cypress Bayou. See a gunboat with real live cannons. Visit Diamond Don Gator Pit with seven live gators and see ruins on the property from the 1800’s. Friday Train rides depart 10:30, 11:30, and 12:30. Trains on Friday will depart from Diamond Don RV Park. Price is $4 for living history and $6 for train ride, when a Living History ticket is purchased. Lap children free.

The Great Locomotive Chase trains will run on Saturday, May 20, 2023 departing from the Historic Jefferson Railway in downtown Jefferson at 11:00, 12:30, and 2:30. Train on Sunday, May 21, 2023 will depart at 12:30. Price is $15 plus tax, lap children free. Tickets are available on line. www.JeffersonRailway.com

The gripping tale of The Andrews Raid is the Civil War’s most fascinating railroad story. Famous campaigns were planned and conducted for the primary purpose of capturing or destroying railroad lines

of value to the enemy. On the morning of April 12, 1862, the most famous locomotive of the Civil War, the General, was hijacked by the Union civilian spy, James J. Andrews, and his men. After a nail-biting eight hours and 87 miles, the Southerners captured the General, James Andrews and several of his men.

The Merrimack was a Union cruiser, captured by the South in Norfolk Virginia, and renamed the Virginia. The Jefferson Battle that Never Was will feature the Virginia, fighting from the banks of the river, while the soldiers fight to capture the train.

Reminiscent of the landing parties that aided the regular land forces, from both above and below the Mason-Dixon Line, this train ride will be a unique experience. Keep your seat on the train as the soldiers fight around you near the railroad track and from the gunboat.

Re-enactors are welcome at Diamond Don RV Park with lots of space, trees and plenty of amenities, including free primitive camping, water, split wood, restrooms and showers. RV sites with water and electric are available to re-enactors and to the public. Reservations recommended. Reenactor registration fee is $10. RV sites are $35 for reenactors and $45 for general public.

Take a step back in time as the Historic Jefferson Railway takes you on an excursion that circles the Piney Woods along the scenic Big Cypress Bayou. You’ll view a Confederate Powder Magazine from the Civil War era and remains of many sites from the 1800’s still visible along the track. The train will stop about half-way for the skirmish with the gunboat. The open-canopied observation cars provide an excellent view of this exciting event along the river.

Historic Pilgrimage Returns

...Continued From Page 22

Craft Fair and Sale. Stroll through and shop the Craft Fair Sale set up in William Perry Park adjacent to the Excelsior House. The Craft Fair and Sale will be open 9 a.m.--5 p.m. on Friday, and Saturday, and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Sunday.

Heritage Quilt Exhibit. The quilt exhibit will be held in the beautifully restored Cumberland Presbyterian Church, 501 East Jefferson Street. This outstanding collection of quilts is free and open to the public Friday and Saturday, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Jay Gould Railroad Car. Located on bustling Austin Street across the street from the Excelsior Hotel is the Atalanta, the private rail car of notorious railroad baron, Jay Gould, of New York City. Visit this uniquely furnished car built in 1886 and discover how it came to Jefferson. Tour

tickets are $7.50 and can be purchased at the Excelsior House or online at jeffersonpilgrimage.com or theexcelsiorhouse.com.

Other attractions. The hauntingly beautiful Big Cypress Bayou is located just one block from Austin Street. This river has been the life blood of Jefferson since the town’s beginning when Texas was a republic. Boat tours of the Bayou are available. Stroll along the brick streets of Jefferson, shop in the many unique shops, visit the museums or take a ride on a historic train, enjoy a one hour guided shuttle tour of Jefferson, stay in historic hotels or in a bed and breakfast and dine in our restaurants –all are available for your enjoyment.

For more information, visit our website: jeffersonpilgrimage.com, Email jeffersonpilgrimage@gmail.com, or call 903-4523836.

Growing Up Jefferson cont’d

Will Work for Food and Other Adventures

...Continued From Page 15

59 then), and it had a flat roof. But the best thing Greeney’s had going for it was its location—directly across the street from the “show,” or you may know it as the Strand Theater. The burger establishment’s interior walls were institutional green; it had a cigarette machine and a juke box; and a green-faced clock on the wall urging me to “Drink Coca Cola.” Not a chance. I was a Grapette man from way back. The flat grill covered in grease was next to the gas burners on the north wall. Next was the Kelvinator refrigerator. There was a counter with eight stools facing the grill with a couple of wooden booths in the back. I always sat at the counter just to be close to the action. Now the menu was Spartan. There were hot dogs, with and without……wieners, yes, good, there you go; hamburgers and cheeseburgers; chili by the bowl; and maybe a fried egg sandwich. Even today, I still don’t understand why anyone would put a fried egg and toast on the same sandwich except at breakfast. And my wife does it with ketchup, but she was born in Illinois. There were no French fries, just chips. And no dessert except maybe a store bought fried pie in a paper wrapper. Or possibly a Big Kay cookie.

Now there were several hamburger joints in town at that time. Twelve grades of school were conducted four blocks up the Henderson Street hill. If you didn’t eat in the cafeteria or bring your lunch, you came to town, on foot or in a car if you were older. Four or five hundred famished War Babies and Baby Boomers hitting town at the same time provided plenty of business for eateries. It must have looked like a plague of locusts descending on a field of grain. There were others, but I remember Ruby’s, the Sweet Shop, The Jeep, and Moody’s. Now Mr. Moody was

the eponymous purveyor of hot dogs that can be bought in town today, but, really, all were just about the same to me. I didn’t frequent Mr. Moody’s that much because it just wasn’t on my route. It was on West Austin Street, and at that time there were no stores I had any interest in. There was a furniture store, an antique shop, a couple of hotels, a courthouse or two, and the city offices—definitely not kid­centric although the fire station was also there. Moody’s unique architecture also featured a floor that slanted nearly as much as that tower in northern Italy, but this was caused by the Jefferson Flood of 1945. Moody’s outlasted all the rest, however, and I ate there many times as an adult. That floor never got fixed though, and if you wanted to sit in a booth, you could roll down there faster than you could walk to it.

Now as most kids of that time know, The Jeep was off limits to us by parental edict. I never asked my folks why. It was also across the side street from the show, but I got the impression that it was frequented by a little bit rougher crowd, like teenagers that went there smoked or cursed or played pool for money. And they wore motorcycle jackets. Shoot, I wanted to go there to see, but I never got the nerve to go up that second set of steps to the main floor. Except one time Bill Ford and I went there for his Dad to get change for his Quality Cleaners. It looked harmless enough to me, but it was still daylight out. Now there was one thing about Jefferson at the time—it had its own Axis of Evil. And as all kids knew, that consisted of juke boxes, cigarette machines, pin ball machines and pool tables. Most places then had those first two but pin ball or pool tables caused a synergism that approached pandemonium. And pandemonium led to lawlessness and that

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23rd Outlaw Nationals Roars Into Town

In its 23rd year, the Outlaw Nationals Car Show is the longest running car show in Jefferson and continues to grow and be an annual tradition in downtown.

This year the show is set for April 14 and 15, and it takes over the brick streets with cars of every type –from classics, to vintage, to new, to Ratrods, of all makes and models.

There are also merchandise vendors mixed in among the cars !

The Phoenix Organization of Jefferson started hosting this event 12 years ago when the previous hosts stepped down. This event is very popular for car enthu-

siasts, so it made perfect sense to continue the event and add to it each year. Even if it does not run, if you can get here, bring it!

Awards are given for multiple categories and an auction completes the afternoon’s activities.

The show concludes with a Band and Dance at Auntie Skinner’s Riverboat

Proceeds are part of the annual donation the Phoenix Organization gives to Camp I’m Still Me for burn survivors.

For more information on this event and to register for this event please visit the website https://www.outlawnationals. com/

Growing Up Jefferson cont’d Will Work for Food and Other Adventures

...Continued From Page 44

led to reform school. And that line of logic right there was enough to keep most of us kids away from The Jeep.

The last time I remember eating at Greeney’s was 1962. The Strand had been sold, and briefly closed for remodeling and renovation. They might could have remained open and worked around the movie goers. But I imagine they had to call in hazardous material specialists to sanitize the bathrooms to render them usable, and get whatever that sticky stuff was off the theater floor. But re­open it did with the much ballyhooed Jefferson premier of Blue Hawaii, starring Elvis Presley and Joan Blackman. Elvis was unable to attend in person, but some friends of mine swear they saw him drive through town when we were in the second grade on his way to the Louisiana Hayride. So no premier attendance, but a previous reported sighting. Greeney’s got new owners about that time, so I guess Mr. Greeney, whose first name was Malachi I found out recently, went to the house. The old high school had burned, and the new school was a good bit north of downtown. The show, even after remodeling, didn’t have as much business after everyone started watching television. And kids my age had our driver’s licenses and we migrated to the Dairy Queen. You could eat in your car, listen to the radio, and have a little privacy to share with a girlfriend. So we left. Greeney’s was small, I left there smelling like grease, the menu never changed and the food wasn’t good for me. But, gosh, I miss that place. I left Greeney’s, but to my surprise, I guess Greeney’s never left me.

No Guide Experience Necessary

In 1950’s and 1960’s Jefferson, Scouting was big. Really big. And I think it must have been like that in every small town

and some large ones in the United States. I don’t know if World War II and its returning veterans had anything to do with that or not, but maybe. Nationwide, there was an emphasis placed on physical fitness, mental alertness, moral fiber, faith and patriotism. And Scouting met that need for boys. I was in Scouting in some form or another from ages eight to fifteen, and it helped me in many ways, achieving skills I still use today. My father, my son and I all earned the rank of Eagle, the highest rank in Scouting, and an accomplishment I take pride in still. Cub Scouts was more of a social activity, with weekly meetings after school hosted by a Den Mother and a Boy Scout Den Chief. Our Den 3 Chief was Don Allen, a few years older boy that had been in Boy Scouts for a couple of years, helping prepare us for the more rigorous demands of Boy Scouting. He was also the object of much hero worship from us. So most of my town friends were Cub Scouts and a few went on to be Boy Scouts also.

It was probably my second year in Boy Scouts, making this story occur in 1960. Pilgrimage was the first weekend in May, just as it is today, but as anyone who was here then will tell you, it was a much larger event. There were four homes on the morning tour and four homes on the afternoon one. I don’t think there were any other towns close to us that did something like that at that time, so interest was high. Now the homes, as I remember them, were pretty much as is. There had not been the extensive renovation that you see in many of Jefferson’s historic homes today, and I still remember the single light bulb fixture dangling by a long cord in the foyer of Dr. and Mrs. W. S. McNutt’s House of Seasons. But the homes were historic, much of the furniture was original to the house, and

Continued On Page 48...

69th Annual Diamond Bessie Murder Trial

By Bobbie Hardy, Director

One of the highlights of Pilgrimage is the annual staging of the Diamond Bessie Murder Trial, an adaptation of the last days of the 1877 trial in Jefferson of Abraham Rothschild for the murder of the Diamond Bessie. The trial captured national attention in its day, and its re-creation attracts a standing-room-only audience.

The play, which will mark its 69th year, tells the story of Bessie Moore, of Watertown, N.Y., and Abraham “Abe” Rothschild, the son of a wealthy family of jewelry dealers.

Abe and Bessie were married in Danville, Ill., in January 1877. Shortly afterward, they headed south by rail, eventually traveling on Jay Gould’s new Texas & Pacific Railroad. After arriving in Marshall, Texas, they moved on to Jefferson.

From the moment Bessie Moore stepped off the train in Jefferson, the townspeople were captivated by her beauty and apparent wealth, accentuated by the numerous diamonds decorating her hands and the young gentleman on her arm. Checking into the Brooks House Hotel, they used the alias, A. Monroe and wife of St. Louis.

A few days later, the couple was seen crossing Big Cypress Bayou carrying a basket for what appeared to be a romantic picnic. But as evening neared, only he returned. He was acting peculiarly, drinking heavily, and wearing two of Bessie’s rings on his fingers. Two days later, he gathered her belongings and departed. What followed would become one of the most sensational stories to unfold in East Texas.

Bessie’s body was discovered a few weeks later, and the townspeople rallied around the ill-fated beauty and named her

“Diamond Bessie,” a nickname fashioned after the jewels she had worn. A monetary collection to have her properly buried in Historic Oakwood Cemetery was gathered, and descriptions of the girl were issued throughout the country. Jefferson’s sheriff, John Vines, began his investigation, and the identity of the couple was soon revealed.

A police chief in Bessie’s hometown identified the woman as Annie Stone, later known as Anna Moore and Bessie Moore. She was a well-known prostitute, and had left Watertown to ply her trade in Cincinnati, Chicago, and New Orleans.

In addition, the sheriff had traced the couple’s prior destination to the hotel in Marshall, where they had registered as A. Rothschild and wife, of Cincinnati. Further inquiry led the lawman to a Cincinnati hospital where Rothschild, a disreputable traveling salesman for his family’s jewelry business, was recovering from a failed suicide attempt. Paranoid someone was following him, Abe had gotten drunk and shot himself in the head, but managed only to put out an eye. The renowned swindler, womanizer and thief was arrested and whisked back to Texas to stand trial.

This is where the play begins. First performed in 1955, the original script was written by Lawton Riley, who mixed tragedy and humor with fact and conjecture to create an exciting and captivating drama. The play is staged in Jefferson’s Historic Playhouse, built in 1875 at Henderson and

Continued on page 50...

Growing Up Jefferson cont’d Will Work for Food and Other Adventures

...Continued From Page 46

visitors marveled at the graciousness and attire of the homeowners, just as they do now. This was the only time of year these homes were open to tour and the town was packed.

For a little background here, my Boy Scout Troop was Troop 212, and we were sponsored by the First Methodist Church. I suppose that meant they provided us with some operating expenses such as utilities for our Scout Hut and basic supplies such as tents, flags and some equipment. But we boys paid our own dues, bought our uniforms and provided our personal camping gear. So fund raisers were occasionally necessary. Someone unknown to me reasoned that a sure fire fund raiser idea was to take advantage of the Pilgrimage crush, and rent the Boy Scouts as guides to our visitors. I know 1960 Jefferson was an idyllic, Norman Rockwell-type community, but looking at it with today’s eyes, who does that? I mean, what could possibly go wrong here? Would parents let their eleven and twelve year old boys get in cars or on busses populated by out of town visitors we had never seen before? Well, apparently, yes, because that’s exactly what we did. Almost all of us were town kids, so we knew where all the tour homes were located and how to get there. As far as narration or historic information, that must not have been included in the $1 guide rental fee because I don’t think any of us had much knowledge of that.

Pilgrimage Tour Headquarters, at that time, was in the American Legion building on West Broadway, the same limestone building that is there today. We sat inside that pine-paneled building, looking out the window for some sign of a nice car driven by someone that appeared affluent that might choose us. We weren’t allowed to ac-

cept tips, but we did receive the occasional soft drink or ice cream cone from our guests. So, the older kids positioned themselves for those customers. We younger guys usually got the leftovers. One time in particular, though, maybe all the older boys had already rented out and left because I came up when a very nice, well-dressed gentleman needed a guide. As we walked out to the parking lot, he directed me to a very nice car. I would tell you what kind it might have been if I hadn’t been distracted. But waiting in the front seat was the prettiest, little brown-haired girl about my age I think I had seen in my eleven years. So I forgot all about that car. And she moved to the middle so I could sit next to her. Well, my hands got sweaty, my stomach felt funny and I think I had a little momentary dizziness. I’m just thankful my other body functions were held in check. I sat down next to her, and when I had regained my voice, I began to direct her dad where to go. She was no more interested in the tour than I was, so we spent some time talking while her parents went through the houses. She was from Shreveport, and I wasted no time establishing my bona fides by sharing the fact that my Uncle Clyde Fant was the Mayor of Shreveport. It’s hard to say if she was more impressed with my skillfully guiding her father through the byways and alleyways to avoid the most traffic, or the fact that I was in uniform and the recent recipient of my First Class Badge. It could have been either. Or both. But there was definitely a spark. And, all too soon, we were at the last stop, Guarding Oaks, home of our Mayor, Dan Lester. We lingered in the expansive back yard, surrounded by the smell of honeysuckle and gardenias, and dwarfed by those stately Magnolia trees. We said our goodbyes, and vowed to

Continued On Page 51...

Big Cypress Corvette Show Cruises In

Jefferson is the type of place where a group of people with a common interests can find ways to use their hobby to benefit others.

This is exactly the case with the Big Cypress Corvette Club (BCCC)—a group of car enthusiasts who have put their passion to work for a common good.

Their cornerstone event—the Big Cypress Corvette Show—is set for June 1-3, 2023, in downtown Jefferson.

The first Big Cypress Corvette Show took place 12 years ago,

It was designed as a venue for Corvette enthusiasts to show off their rides and educate on the public about Chevrolet’s legendary sports car line.

Shadden said the group hosted 90 Vettes in 2022 and he expect even more this year.

“Right now, we have two entries pre-registered from Las Vegas. There are Large groups from Little Rock and New Orleans who are registered as well as folks from Houston and Dallas,” Shadden said. “We are expecting a great show.”

Shadden claims Corvettes is not all his club does.

“We came together a few years ago and formed a board,” Shadden said. “We filed our 501c3 and set out to find ways to give back.”

The end result has been hosting car shows and other automotive events— the

profits of which have gone to charity.

“We aim to provide family-friendly events for automotive enthusiasts,” Shadden said. “Our mission is to promote tourism and support local charitable organizations.”

The groups’ newest project is restoring a 1925 Ford Model T.

The automotive relic was recently donated to the BCCC by the Mid American Flight Museum in Mount Pleasant.

“It was a one-family vehicle owned that was donated to them sometime ago,” Shadden said. “They are an airplane museum so it’s a bit out of their wheelhouse. They put out feelers looking for a group who needed a project. We answered the call.”

Shadden said the group plans to restore the car mechanically while leaving the rust on age viable on the exterior.

For more information about the Big Cypress Corvette Club, the Corvette Show or to make a donation, contact Shadden at 903-407-7887.

Diamond Bessie Murder Trial Play

...Continued From Page 47

Market streets as a synagogue by the Hebrew Sinai Congregation. The setting has a distinct resemblance to the courtroom where the real drama played out over 140 years ago.

Our dedicated and distinguished cast includes Kimberly Parsons, who will be playing the role of Diamond Bessie for the eighth year. The role of Abraham Rothschild will be played for the 22nd year by David Ham. Sharing the role of Rothschild for the second year will be Joe Buck Crisp, general manager of KMHT Radio in Marshall. Accompanying the stars of our show will be organist Glennda Abraham, in her 35th year, and assistant organist Charles Gilbert. Lighting technicians are Tony Jones, Terry Ioerger and Darrell Gaither. Other returning cast members include

Joey Romano, Bubba Haggard, Andrew Parsons, Mitchel Whitington, Marty Stewart, Steven Coleman, Skip Torrans, Tim Cariker, Bill Gleason, Glenda Ervin, Mary Spearmon, Brooke Bradley-LaFleur, Shelia Langbartels, Charlie Horn, Doug Thompson and Jim Stacey.

Tickets for the 69th annual performances will be available beginning Feb. 1, 2023, by calling Sandra Hall on the Diamond Bessie ticket-line, (903) 665-0737. The cost per ticket is $20.

Show times are Thursday, May 4, and Friday, May 5, at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, May 6, at 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.; and Sunday, May 7, at 2 p.m.

For additional information about the Diamond Bessie Murder Trial, please visit www.jeffersonpilgrimage.com or www. diamondbessieplay.com.

‘Battle On Big Cypress’

A long-loved tradition continues in Jefferson this summer as Civil War re-enactors plan for another exhibition on the banks of the Big Cypress Bayou.

Originally the Historic Jefferson Foundation sponsored the annual “Battle of Port Jefferson.” It then moved through various organizations for sponsorship. Now, it will continue in private hands on the banks of the Big Cypress Bayou under a new name.

It was an imagined Civil War reenactment of the battle that never happened but very well could have.

“The Battle of Big Cypress Bayou” will take place May 5-7 and organizers say re-enactment units are already submitting their RSVPs.

“Last year was an outstanding success and we plan on doing that year after year” said event organizer Jim McIntosh.

The event will take place over three days on McIntosh’s property on the southeast corner of Polk St. and the Big Cypress Bayou.

The physical address is 601 South Polk Street and the show will include usage of the historical Confederate powder magazine already on the property— a architectural relic for the Civil War.

“The (re-enactment) units who have done this before are excited to come to Jefferson,” McIntosh said. “They are getting calls from other units who looking to get back at it. We expect a great crowd and hope to continue to this Jefferson tradition.”

Growing Up Jefferson cont’d Will Work for Food and Other Adventures

...Continued From Page 48

see each other again soon somehow. Then I was taken back to tour headquarters, dropped off, and that ended my best day as a tour guide ever. You know how it goes— boy meets girl, differences arise, boy loses girl. And baseball practice was starting soon, I had school on Monday, and I’m not sure I even got her address. But, today, I wouldn’t need it. We’d have Skype, Instagram, Facebook, and email. Who knows what might have happened?

Now there is not going to be some happy ending here that I reveal. We didn’t meet up again in college and pick up where we left off many years before. But there might be a little bit of a moral lesson here. If she

even remembers this happening, I doubt she remembers it the same way I just told you. But I will tell you this—after over fifty years, I still remember that pretty, little brown-haired girl’s name. She may still live in Shreveport, and she may one day read this book. And I hope she does even if she doesn’t remember me. For one afternoon in May, 1960, she made my day and probably several days after that. Isn’t it somewhat remarkable that one never knows when that lasting impression is made, good or bad? So, Susan Colquitt, if you’re reading this, good job. I hope you know you’re memorable and what an impression you made on me. At the end of the day, that’s the most important thing we’ll leave behind.

Jefferson: Places to Shop

Find a treasure or looking for a nick-knack? Jefferson shops have you covered! Courtesy of City of Jefferson–for more information www.visitjeffersontexas.com or 903-665-3733.

Bohn’s Gift Shoppe / Blackburn Factory Outlet 108 E Lafayette St, 214-232-6031

Calavera Leather & Cigar Co. & Calavera Home Store( Handmade Leather “Goods, Premium Cigars & Curated Gifts For Men)” 110-2 N Walnut St. 979-3041922 City Drug Co. 109 W Lafayette St 903-665-2521

Cross Threads Thrift Store 213 W. Broadway; Mon-Thurs 9-5; Fri 9-4 903-601-4425

Embears Vintage Charm 218 N Polk St, 903-918-5790

Estates Sales Antique Store 207 N Polk St

Foodie Tasting Room, 114 W. Lafayette St, 903-471-0440

The Front Porch (Unique Home & Personal Items)/Bigfoot Cigar Co. 303 N Polk St 361-788-3369

GiGi’s Antiques & Collectibles 216 N Polk St 903-601-5019

Gold Leaf Antique Mall 122 N Polk St 903-665-2882

Lazy Draft (Farmhouse Décor, Western Wear, More) 115 N Polk St 903-215-8140

Jefferson Antique Mall 224 N Walnut St 903-665-8852

Jefferson General Store 113 E Austin St 903-665-8481

Lafleur Couture (Holistic Wellness & Beauty Products) 111 W Austin St 903-930-5060

Made In The Shade Boutique 118 E Henderson St 903-665-8966

Myer’s Antique Co. 129 N Walnut St 903-578-1553 Or 903-5781556

Nutty’s -Fresh Milled Peanut But-

ter 123 Polk St 903-664-7021

Old Mill Antiques 210 E Austin 903-665-8601

Old Store, The / Fudge Factory 123 N Walnut 903-665-3562

Old Vault,The - Antiques & Collectibles 215 N Polk 903-601-4428

Port Jefferson Coffee Roasters (Small Batch Wood Fired Roaster) Whole Beans/Ground/Pods 116 W Lafayette St. 903-263-8976

Port Jefferson Outpost (Fudge, Gifts) 220 N Polk St 903-665-8881

Polk Street Antiques 226 N Polk St. 903-665-8282

River Rose (Boutique/ Home Décor) 200 W Austin St 903-4070445

River City Bazaar & Flea Market 607 B N. Polk St 903-918-5612

Ron Atwood Gallery (Art) 226 N Polk St 318-548-9379

Roy’s Rails & Rides (Model Train Accessories) 602 N Polk St 903742-9449

Sheality (Boutique) 118 N Polk St 903-471-9674

Texas Tees 605 E Broadway 903665-7256

Texas Treasures Antiques & Gift Shop 214 N Polk St 903-6653757

Three Rivers Antiques 116 N Walnut St 903-665-8721

Willow Tree, The (Premiere Boutique) 211 N Polk St 903-6014515

Walnut Street Market Antiques 121 N Walnut St 903-665-8864

Yesteryear Gift Shop & Classy Glitz Boutique 102 S Polk St 903-665-8692

Ya Ya’s (Resale Children’s Clothes,

Jefferson: Places to Shop cont’d...

Toys & More) 612 N Polk St903665-0076

Dollar General 206 N Walcott St 903-665-7300

Family Dollar Store 808 N Walcott St 903-665-6770

Rentals

Bicycle Rental@ Kennedy Manor “217 W Lafayette St, 903-6650772”

Golf Cart, Kayak & Canoe Rental

@ Made In The Shade “118 E Henderson St, 903-665-8966”

Golf Cart Rental @ Roy’s Rails “602 N Polk St, 903-742-9449”

Florists

Jefferson Flower Market 903-6015030 112 W Lafayette St

Salons & Spas

Allay Day Spa 903 -601-1431 110 N Vale St

Salon Rouge Spa (Full Service Spa & Beauty Salon) 903-9305060 318 N Polk St

Hair Adise_ 903-665-7423 201 W Broadway St

Jefferson Nails & Spa (Massage Also)_903-665-8661 120 N Polk

Nadine’s Beauty Shop 903-6653121 403 E Broadway St

Vale Studio (Nails And Lashes) 903-578-0614 116 N Vale St

Jefferson: Places to Have Events

Planning an event in Jefferson? Want to have a group meeting or corporate retreat? Jefferson has a variety of locations and sizes for your needs. Courtesy of City of Jefferson–for more information www.visitjeffersontexas.com or 903-665-3733.

1852 on Austin 124 E. Austin. (903) 601-4457.

Auntie Skinner’s Riverboat Club and Restaurant 107 W. Austin. 903.665.7121.

Black Swan, 210 W. Austin, 903 665 7023

Bulldog Pizza 603 E. Broadway. 903.665.9499.

The Carriage House, 401 N. Polk, 903 665 9411

City of Jefferson Convention & Visitors Building, 305 E. Austin, 903 665 3733

Collins Academy 500 East Broadway. 903.665.2900

Diamond Don Event Center, 1602 Tx 49, 866-398-2038

Enoch’s Wine & Coffee House 116 N Polk. 903.918.8208

Excelsior Hotel Ballroom & Courtyard, 211 W. Austin, 903 665 2513

Haywood House Restaurant and Cocktail Bar, 202 S Market. 903601-4070

Jefferson Carnegie Library Ballroom, 301 W. Lafayette, 903 665 8911

Jefferson Community Center, 501 Haywood St, (903) 665-6500.

The Jeffersonian Institute, 120 E. Austin, 903 665 2567 or 903 733 1035

Kellyville Community Center 130 Kelly Park Rd. 903.665.2421

The KnightLight Tavern & Olde World Restaurant 202 N. Walnut, 903.665.8546.

Jefferson: Tours and Attractions

Courtesy of City of Jefferson–for more detailed information www.visitjeffersontexas.com or 903-665-3733

House Of The Seasons Historic Home Tour – 409 S. Alley Daily @ 11 Am ($15 Per Person) *By Appointment* (903) 665-8000 Www.houseoftheseasons.com

Singleton’s Virginia Cross Historic Home Tour 401 Soda St. Saturdays @ 1 Pm ($7 Per Person) Call For Additional Dates & Times (903) 665-3938 Www.virginiacross.com

Historic Tours Of Jefferson 217 W Lafayette St. (903) 665-0359

1 Hour Historic/Scenic Trolley Tours: Time Varies. Call for Reservations Bayou Boat Tours Thursday – Monday 9am-Noon, 2-6pm 200 Bayou St., Jefferson, 903-665-2222 , Facebook: Turning Basin Riverboat Tours

Jefferson Carriage Rides And Tours By Sacred Spur Carriage Company 111 E Austin St. (903) 790-2693 Or (903) 504-2715

Fri & Sat - 3pm-9pm; Sun – By Appointment.

Excelsior House Hotel & Jay Gould Railcar Tour 211 W. Austin Jay Gould Railcar Tours: Fri & Sat @ 1-3pm Jay

Gould Railcar Tour - $5 (903) 6652513 Call To Confirm Tour Times

Www.theexcelsiorhouse.com

Jefferson Historical Museum 223 W. Austin Daily 9:30 am - 4:30 pm

R.D. Moses T&P Model Railroad 223 W Austin St. (Located Behind The Jefferson Historical Museum) Monday-Thursday At 11am & At 2pm; Ages: 6-12 - $3; 13-17 - $4; 18-61yrs - $7; 62+ $5 Friday-Saturday 9:30 am - 4:30 pm Sunday 12:30 Pm4:30 Pm (903) 665-2775 Www. jeffersonmuseum.com

Museum Of Measurement And Time 301 N Polk St. (903) 665-6668

- Sun. 1-5pm, Thurs-Sat. 10am5pm, Mon-Wed: By Appt

Gone With The Wind Museum

408 Taylor St. (903) 665-1939 Call For Appointment

Historic Jefferson Railway Please See Website Office/Depot Open: Sat. 11am Historical Day Tours On Saturday 12:30pm, 2:30pm; Location: 400 E Austin St., (866)398-2038 Or (903)742-2041 Www.jeffersonrailway.com Info@Jeffersonrailway. com

Historic Ghost Walk (903) 601-3375 Fri & Sat Night; Meets At The Cor- ...Continued on Page 58 Thursday - Monday 11:30a - 3p

Jefferson: Tours and Attractions cont’d

ner Of Austin & Vale St.; Gather At 7:30pm, Tour Starts At 8pm The Grove 405 Moseley St,; Known As The Most Haunted House In Texas! Tours: Sat. 2pm & Sun. 11am; Reservations Required. Call To Confirm Tour Times. 903-665-8018; Admission: $8 Www.thegrove-Jefferson.com

Lonesome Dove Drive Thru Safari Drive Thru Outdoor Adventure. Feed And Observe Over 80 Exotic Animals. Also A “Petting Zoo” And Children’s Train! Open Wednesday – Sunday, 10:30am To 4:30 Adults: $16, Children (3-11 Yrs) $10, Children Under 3: Free; Discounts For 1st Responders, Military, And Educators (903) 665-0053 Www.lonesomedovedrivethrusafari.co

Busy B Ranch Wildlife Park 1100 West Prospect Rd, 6 Miles North Of Jefferson. Drive-Thru Safari Adventure. Www.busybranchwildlifepark. com 903-665-4093

Lakeside Park Disc Golf Lake O’the Pines – Just West Of The Spillway; Open 7 Days A Week; Play Free W/ Park Admission; 18-Hole Course

Tours Of Caddo Lake

Big Cypress Tours Of Caddo Lake Daily Tours Of Caddo Lake - (24 Ft Pontoon Boat) 449 Cypress Dr., Uncertain, Tx Call For Appointment And Pricing - (903) 570-3319 Www.bigcypresstours. com

Caddo Lake Bayou Tours Tours Of Scenic & Historic Caddo Lake. Pontoon Boat Tours Available 7 Days A Week, Including Sunrise & Sunset. Guided Fishing Trips. 903-570-2169 Www.caddolakebayoutours.com

Ole’ Jigger’s Caddo Lake Adventures Private Lake Tours – Pontoon (1-15 People) Or Swamp Boat (4 People). 7 Days A Week – Including Sunset Tours 198 W. Sesame St., Karnack, Tx (903)930-6778 Www. olejigger.com

Caddo Lake Guide Service (903) 455-3437 Www.caddolakefishing. com

Captain Ron’s Swamp Tours Pontoon Boat Tours Of Caddo Lake Adults: $25, Seniors: $20, Children: $15 Departs From Big Pine Lodge; 756 Pine Island Rd, Karnack, Tx Call For Appointment - (903) 6793020 Captronswamptours.com/

Mossy Brake Camp Private Tours On Caddo Lake For Individuals Or Groups Up To 5 People 612-735-7625 Mossybrakecamp. com

Rentals – Kayak, Canoe, Golf Cart, Bicycle

Riverbend Outfitters Kayak & Canoe Rentals With Delivery And/Or Pick-Up. Big Cypress Bayou, Caddo Lake, & Lake O’ The Pines Kristi & Jerry Thomas (903)926-0203 Www. riverbendoutfitters.com

Made In The Shade Kayak, Canoe And Golf Cart Rentals With Delivery & Pick-Up, 118 E Henderson St., Jefferson Tx (903) 665- 8966

Roy’s Rails & Rides Golf Cart Rentals – 2 Seater, 4 Seater, And Specialty Carts Available; 602 N Polk St, Jefferson Tx (903) 742-9449

Kennedy Manor Bicycle Rentals: ½ Day- $10, 1 Day-$15, Weekend-$25; 217 W Lafayette St., Jefferson, Tx (903) 665-0359

Jefferson: Places to Eat

Courtesy of City of Jefferson–for more detailed information www.visitjeffersontexas.com or 903-665-3733 Hours/days of operation subject to change, call to confirm

Auntie Skinner’s Riverboat Club and Restaurant 107 W. Austin. Mon & Thurs 11a – 8p; Fri 11a-12a Sat 11a – 1a; Sun Noon – 8p; Closed Tues & Wed 903.665.7121. Weekend Live Entertainment.

Austin Street Bistro 117 E. Austin. Gourmet lunch and dinner. A Bistro with a casual flair. Tues–Thurs 11a–8p, Friday & Saturday 11a–9m. Closed Sunday & Monday. 903.665.9700.

Big Cypress Nutrition – 210 N Walnut St Meal Replacement Shakes & Energy Teas. Mon – Fri 7a–4p; Sat–Sun. 9a–5p 903-601-5005

Bulldog Pizza 603 E. Broadway SunThurs 11a–9p. Friday and Saturday 11a–10p. 903.665.9499.

The Carriage House BnB – 401 N Polk St. Fri & Sat. @ 7p. Four Course Dinners by Jessi. Reservations required. 903.665.9511

Don Juan’s Mexican Restaurant 400 S. Walcott. (US Hwy 59). Open Daily 11a–9p 903.665.6407.

Enoch’s Wine Cellar & Coffee House 116 N Polk. Espresso, Cappuccino, Aericano, Latte, & Tea & a wide variety of wines Wed Noon-7p; Thurs.– Sat. Noon – 8p; Sun Noon-5p 903.9184108

The Hive ,410 N Polk St. Breakfast, Lunch & Coffee’ Fresh Baked Goodies All Day! Mon-Sat, 7a-2p 903-601-4463

Joseph’s Riverport Barbecue 201 N. Polk. Open Wednesday-Thursday 11A-3P; Friday & Saturday 11 A-5 P.. Closed Sun., Mon., Tues 903.665.2341

Kitt’s Kornbread Sandwich & Pie Bar 125 N. Polk. Home of the original “Kornbread” Sandwich, Salads, Soups & Pies. Sunday, Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 11 A – 2:30 P. Closed Tues & Wed 903.665.0505.

Taste of Caddo Café 201 W Austin St. Lunch, Dinner – Daily Specials, Comfort Foods, & yes, Catfish! Tues-Thurs 11a-7a; Fri -Sat 8a-9p; Sun 8a-3p

Closed Mondays 903.601.4446

1852 on Austin- 124 E Austin St Lunch: Wed – Sun, 11a- 2p. Dinner: 5-10p; Jazzy Sunday Brunch 10:30A- 2P.

Special Live Music Events 903-6014457

Haywood House Restaurant & Cocktail Bar 202 Market St.; Mon,Tues,Thurs 10:30A-10P, Fri

10:30a-Midnight, Sat 9a-Midnight, Sun 9a-10p, Sat & Sun Brunch 9a-2p 903601-4070

.Kahn Saloon Hotel / Coffee Shop Specialty Coffees, Cookies, Muffins, Snacks; Sun.- Thurs. 8a -2p; Fri & Sat 8a-8p; 903.601.4434

McGarity’s Restaurant & Saloon – 208 W Dallas St. Lunch & Dinner Menus, Also Vegan & Veg. Menus; Specialty Drinks, Beer, Wine, Cocktails. Open Every Day! Mon – Fri 10:30 A – Midnight; Sat 10:30 A -1 ASun. 10 A-10 P Sun. Brunch served 10 A –2 P903.601.4407 Weekend Live Entertainment.

Port Jefferson Outpost— 220 N. Polk Breakfast, Sandwiches, Soup, & Desserts. Mon. – Fri. 7 A – 5 P; Sat. – Sun. 7A-8P 903.665.8881

Roma’s Italian Restaurant – 101 Market St Open Every Day 10:30 A-9 P 903-601-4441

The KnightLight Tavern & Olde World Restaurant -- 202 N. Walnut. Great food, wine, beer, cocktails & music

Tuesday – Friday 5 P – 9 P; Saturday 12noon -9 P 903.665.8546

Huddle House – 549 Walcott (Hwy 59) Open 24 Hours, Every Day! Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner 903.665.2643

Jefferson: Places to Stay

Courtesy of City of Jefferson–for more detailed information www.visitjeffersontexas.com or 903-665-3733 Hours/days of operation subject to change, call to confirm Bed & Breakfasts

3 Sister’s Cottages, 214-399-0398, 502 Houston St (Pets Accepted), www.3sisterscottages.com

Azalea Inn, 903-601-3375, 203 E Dixon St, www.azaleainn.net

Black Swan, 903-665-7023, 210 W Austin St, www.visittheblackswan. com

Bessie’s Landing, 972-247-3557, 207 S Alley St (Pets Accepted), www.airbnb.com/rooms/17824506

Carriage House, 903-665-9511, 401 N Polk St (Pets Accepted), carriagehousejefferson.com

Cottage at North Owens, , 226 N Owens, airbnb

Claiborne House, 903-665-8800, 312 S Alley St, claibornehousebnb.com

Delta Street Inn, 903-665-2929, 206 E Delta St, www.deltastreetinn.com

Green Gables of Jefferson, 903407-1956, 304 W Lafayette St, greengablesofjefferson.com

House of the Seasons, 903-6658000, 409 S Alley St, www.houseoftheseasons.com

Kennedy Manor, 903-665-0772, 217 W Lafayette St, www.kennedymanor.com

Old Mulberry Inn, 903-6651945, 209 E Jefferson St, www.oldmulberryinn.com

Steamboat Inn, 951-225-5279, 114 N Marshall St (Pets Accepted), steamboatinntx.com

Welsh Lady, 903-665-8678, 307 North Vale, welshladybandb.com

White Oak Manor, 903-665-8185, 502 E Benners St, www.bedandbreakfastjeffersontx.com

Hotels

Excelsior Hotel, 903-665-2513, 211 W Austin St, theexcelsiorhouse.com

Executive Inn, 903-665-3700, 200 S Walcott St, executiveinnjefferson.com

Historic Jefferson Hotel, 901-4683551, 124 W Austin St, historicjefferson.com

Historic Kahn Hotel, 903-6014471, 123 W Austin St, www.kahnsaloon.com

OYO Hotel Jefferson, 903-6653983, 400 S Walcott St,

Rentals (no breakfast)

A Touch of Grace (queen) www.airbnb.com/ rooms/748736637884146301

A Touch of Grace (king) www.airbnb. com/rooms/748736366731000964

Amarula Guesthouse, , 202 S Marshall, Bunkhouse www.airbnb.com/ rooms/675269919875975889

Bayou Riverfront Cottages, , 825 Common St, www.airbnb.com/ rooms/553258616166062922

Chez Lafayette Guest Cottage, 469-672-7218, 305 W Lafayette St, www.airbnb.com/rooms/51554864

Evergreen Carriage House, 405 E Delta, www.airbnb.com/ rooms/47078571

French Cottages, 808-391-0962, 408 Houston St, www.frenchcottagesjefferson.com

Ga La Chateau, , 212 Austin St, www.airbnb.com/rooms/48105947

Glam Room, 903-930-5060, 318 N Polk St, www.airbnb.com/ rooms/52060426

Jefferson: Places to Stay cont’d

Hello Sunshine, 207 S Friou, www.airbnb.com/ rooms/715126487147721382

Lacewing Creative Retreat for Women, 817-466-6674, 1500 MLK St, www.lacewingretreat.com

La Belle Maison, 903-754-0166, 407 E Jefferson St, www.vbro. com/2342218

Mama Dean’s Place, 703-9095508, 404 E Dixon St, www.airbnb. com/rooms/30553956

Main Haus, 903-503-3352, 211 S Main St, www.airbnb.com/ rooms/51559023

McGarity’s Upstairs Inn, 903-6650121, 208 W Dallas St, www.airbnb.com/rooms/32900530

McKinley Cottage https:www.airbnb/rooms/54402881

Nutty’s Camp Jefferson, 903-7520883, 123 N Polk St, www.airbnb. com/rooms/50612044

Owens Street Cottage, , 226 N Owens, airbnb.com/hcottage/226

Retro Bungalow, , 202 E Baker St, www.airbnb.com/rooms/54289094

Sandstone Luxurious Cottage, 317-508-5523, 406 E Jefferson St, www.vbro.com/2099169

Sandstone Fantastic Cottage, 317-508-5523, 406 E Jefferson St, www.vbro.com/2015139

Sara Jane Cottages, 903-2410683, 306 W Austin St, www.airbnb.com/rooms/12874039

The French Townhouse, , 502 E Walker St, www.airbnb.com/ rooms/22748241

The Magnolias, 903-407-7959, 209 E Broadway St, www.vrbo. com/1404252

503 Lake St, 503 Lake St, www. airbnb.com/rooms/46392550

Sweetest Blessings, 1308 Martin Luther Dr, www.airbnb.com/ rooms/50459543

Villas on Vale, 903-452-1910, 105 S Vale St, www.airbnb.com/ rooms/49140615

Writer’s Loft, , 112 N Vale St Apt C, airbnb.com/rooms/45277708

RV PARKING

Diamond Don’s RV Park, 903-7422041 or 866-398-2038, 1602 State Hwy 49 East, diamonddonempire. com

Jefferson RV Park, 903- 431-0043, 610 E. Broadway St, www.jeffersoniceexpress-rvpark.com

City of Jefferson RV Park, 903665-3922, Located behind the courthouse.

Discover Jefferson & Marion county

Discover Jefferson & Marion County is a quarterly publication of Marion County Media LLC which also publishes the Jefferson Jimplecute, the 4th Oldest Newspaper in Texas, and the Marion County Herald, an online publication, and the Jefferson Convention and Visitors Bureau.

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HOURS

Monday-Tuesday: 5 pm - 10 pm

Wednesday: Closed

Thursday:10:30 am - 10 pm

Friday:10:30 am - 12 am

Saturday: 9 am - 12 am

Sunday: 9 am - 10 pm

The Haywood House is an historic venue on a very unique property in Jefferson, Texas. We have a restaurant, a cigar lounge and a music venue all on our property. We are officially open and excited to meet you!

We’re Your Premier Spot for Fine Dining, Events, and Special Occassions.

Come Join Us and Make Your Trip to Jefferson Extra Memorable!