Vacation Guide 49th by Kilgore Magazine

Be A Part of The Celebration of One of the Oldest Tourism Publications.

www.EastToWestTourism.com

Editorial Since 1963, this Guide has helped millions to discover a beautiful, unique corner of America. The more you learn about our region and its history, the more exciting it becomes. You will find that our forests, lakes, rivers, sea and wilderness are among our greatest assets. We treasure our historical connection with cities. For your benefit we continue to seek new & intriguing places to visit. Our website, www.EastTexasGuide.com continues to grow through our many partnerships. We hope this guide brings new opportunities, new adventures and new invitations to see what this universe has in store for us. If you have suggestions, drop us a line or send an email. We welcome your input. If you have pictures to share, send those too. Get out there and GOâ&#x20AC;Śyour adventure is waiting.

EAST TO WEST TEXAS VACATION GUIDE

Copy right 2012 ETTA 49th Annual Edition Compiled and published annually by East Texas Tourism Association P.O. Box 1592, Longview, Texas 75606 (903) 757-4444, Fax (903) 236-7541. See www.EastToWestTourism.com E-mail: MaryRamos@ETTA.com. Guide distributed free nationally courtesy of advertisers at the Texas Travel Information Centers, auto clubs in Texas and in many other states, at national sports and travel shows, and by our hosts.

Mary Ramos

STAFF MARY RAMOS Executive Director CAROLYN MCCASLAND Accounting Jo Lee Ferguson Writer and Contributor CHRIS LOZANO Creative Director

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Advertising Inquiries: 903-757-4444 MaryRamos@ETTA.com

Heritage Trail Hosts Angleton.............................62 Athens................................51 Atlanta................................45 Avinger................................... Harris Mercantile............45 Bonham..............................37 Canton................................53 Carthage/Panola County....55 Cherokee County...............50 Clute...................................63 Conroe................................43 Corsicana................................ Warehouse Living Arts Center.............................39 Denison..............................37 DeSoto...............................39 Edgewood..........................53 Ennis..................................41 Galveston............................... Victorian Condo Hotel....64 Gilmer................................46 Gladewater............................. Shallow Creek RV Resort.......................58 Gonzales.............................60 Grand Saline.......................41 East Texas Gators...........41 Nutty’s Peanut Butter.....41 Greenville...........................39 Hardin County....................56 Batson, Texas Oil Patch Museum.........................56 Genealogical Society.....56 Pelt Farm B&B..............56 Henderson..........................54 The Depot Museum........54 Heritage Syrup Festival..54 Hillsboro............................41

Hughes Springs..................52 Huntsville...........................43 Jacksonville........................51 Jefferson................................. Jefferson General Store..45 Inn of Jefferson.........27,45 Jefferson Hist. Museum 45 Killeen................................40 Kountze..............................57 Linden................................44 Longview..................... 48-49 Arts View.......................48 Ellis Home Décor...........49 Fernbrook RV Park........45 Greggton Antique Mall..49 Gregg. Hist. Museum.....48 Hayes RV.......................24 Homewood Suites..........27 Johnny Cace’s................48 Pizza King......................49 Lonestar.................................. Scenic View ..................24 Marshall Roseville B&B .............23 Mercantile ....................47 Mesquite.............................38 Nacogdoches......................55 New London London Museum & Tea Room...................51 Orange.................................... Luther Theater................62 W.H. Stark House...........62 Shangri La Botanical Gardens & Nature..........62 Stark Museum................62 Paris...................................38 Port Arthur.............................

Mus.of the Gulf Coast....63 Sherman.............................40 Sour Lake...........................57 The Teacherage..............57 Old Sour Lake Jail.........57 Terrell.................................40 Texas Historical Com.........36 Tyler...................................51 Winnsboro Hubbell House...............24 Woodville............................... Heritage Village Museum & Pickett House.............55 The Woodlands...................... The Woodlands Resort & Conference Center.........43

Louisiana Kinder Best Western Inn at Coushatta.................... 11 Lake Charles......................... 7 Ruston................................... 4 Shreveport Sci-Port Sci.Center.......... 11 State Parks.....................12-13

www.EastToWestTourism.com

Table

of Contents

DISCOVER TEXAS Antiques.............................22 Arts & Artists.....................22 Attractions.................... 22-24 Back Packing: A Great Way to See Nature..................60 Bed & Breakfast.................23 Big Thicket: Biological Crossroads......................21 Cabins & Cottages.............24 Camping & RV...................24 Civic & Convention..... 24-25 East Texas: Old South New West.................. 42-43 Entertainment.....................25 Events............................. 6-11 Festivals....................... 25-26 Gardens..............................26

Genealogical......................26 Golf....................................27 Great Texas Coastal Trails..................61 Great Texas Wildlife Trail...................17 Guest Ranch.......................27 Hotels & Motels.................27 Lakes & Marinas.......... 27-28 Make Sure Summer Fun is Safe............38 cont. on 46 Museums...................... 28-30 Nature Tours.......................30 National Forests.................21 Region Map.................. 34-35 Restaurants.........................30

Reunions & Weddings.......31 Rivers, Lakes & Sea..... 18-20 Spring & Autumn Flowers in Texas.............64 Shopping............................31 State Map..................... 12-15 State Parks ........................31 State Park Directory...........67 State Travel Information ...16 Texas History: Legal......................... 32-33 Haunted ..........................47 Buried........................ 52-53 Texas Traverlers RV Guide................... 58-59 Trade Days.........................31 Visitor Center.....................31 Wineries.............................31

Your Texas Vacation Starts Here

Festivals & Events 2012/2013 January 16 Carthage/Panola Co: MLK Parade. 903-693-4841 www.carthagetexas.com 20 Carthage/Panola Co: KMHT Gospel Concert. 903-923-8000 www.carthagetexas.com 27 Carthage/Panola Co: Annual Lions Variety Show. 903-693-4841 www.carthagetexas.com

February 2 Greenville: Greenville Pops Concert/Yesterday Once More: A Tribute to the Carpenters. www.Greenvillechamber.org. 903-455-1510

March 2 Greenville: The Water Coolers Comedy Revue 903-455-1510 www.GreenvilleChamber.org 3 Linden: Youth Talent Show. 903-756-9934 www.musiccitytexas.org 3 - Apr.24 Tyler: Four Winds Renaissance Faire. 903-839-5271 www.fourwindsfaire.com 8 Palestine: 74th Annual Dogwood Trails Queen Pageant. 903-723-2026 www.palestinechamber.org 10 Athens: Fly Fish Texas! 903-670-2266 www.AthensTX.org 10 Linden: Stoney LaRue concert, Music City Texas Theater. 903-756-9934 www.musiccitytexas.org 10 Orange/Shangri La Botanical Gardens: Adventure Series: Green Cleaning Products. 409-670-9799 www.shangrilagardens.org 11 Jacksonville: Testicle Festival. 903-586-2217 13 Orange/Shangri La Botanical Gardens: A Walk to the Heronry. 409-670-9799 www.shangrilagardens.org 15 Orange/Shangri La Botanical Gardens: Special Birds of Shangri La. 409-670-9799 www.shangrilagardens.org 16-17 Linden: Red Velvet Cake Wars production. 903-756-9934 www.musiccitytexas.org 17 Ennis: Czech St. Patrick Day Dance. 972-878-4748 www.visitennis.org 17 Orange/Shangri La Botanical Gardens: Adventure Series: Landmarks of Shangri La. 409-670-9799 www.shangrilagardens.org 23-25 Palestine: 74th Annual Dogwood Trails Celebration, Fun and Events. 903-729-6066 www.palestinechamber.org 23-25 Paris: Archery Shooters Association Competition. 800-737-4789 www.asaarchery.com 23-Apr. 8 Tyler: Azalea and Spring Flower Trail. 903-592-1661 www.tylerazaleatrail.com 24 Athens: Cain Center 27th Annual Triathlon. 903-677-2001 www.athenscaincenteer.com 24 Linden: 10th Annual Texas Music Awards. 903-756-8944 lucky@mytexasmusic.com 24 Orange/W.H. Stark Foundation: Family Fun at Art in the Park. 409-886-2787 www.starkmuseum.org 24 Palestine: 74th Annual Dogwood Trails Parade. 903-729-6066 www.palestinechamber.org

24-25 Angleton: Market Days. www.angleton.tx.us. 979-849-4364 23-24 Kountze: Big Thicket Trade Days. 409-246-3463 27 Carthage/Panola Co: Gillette Brothers in Concert. 903-693-2000 www.carthagetexas.com 28-31 Jacksonville: High Lifter Mud Nationals. 903-586-2217 www.mudcreekoffroadpark.com 30-31 Denison: Spring Art Tour/Loft Tour. 903-465-1551 www.smalltownbigart.com 30-31 Tyler: Main Street Flower market. 903-593-6905 www.heartoftyler.com 30-Apr. 1 Jacksonville: Three Day Thaw. 903586-2217 30-Apr. 1 Palestine: 74th Annual Dogwood Trails Celebration, Fun and Events. 903-729-6066 www.palestinechamber.org 30-Apr. 7 Huntsville: Walker Co Fair, Rodeo & BBQ Cook-off. 800-289-0389 www.walkercountyfair.com 31 Ennis: Cultural Music Festival. 972-878-4748 www.visitennis.org 31 Orange/Shangri La Botanical Gardens: Adventure Series: Morning Bird Walk. 409-670-9799 www.shangrilagardens.org 31 Paris: 1st Annual Fireman’s Ball. 903-784-9299 visitus@paristexas.com

April Mar. 3-Apr. 24 Tyler: Four Winds Renaissance Faire. 903-839-5271 www.fourwindsfaire.com Mar. 23- 8 Tyler: Azalia and Spring Flower Trail. 903-592-1661 www.tylerazaleatrail.com 1-30 Ennis: Bluebonnet Trails. 972-878-4748 www.visitennis.org 1-May 31 Port Arthur/Museum of the Gulf Coast: Exhibition of Roscoe and the Pelican Rescue. 409-984-6444 6-7 Canton: East Texas Tractor Show & Swap. 877-462-7467 www.visitcantontxedc.com 30-Apr. 1 Palestine: 74th Annual Dogwood Trails Celebration, Fun and Events. 903-729-6066 www. palestinechamber.org 7 Conroe: Sounds of Texas Music Series. 877-426-6763 www.playinconroe.com 7-8 Conroe: Spring Bluebonnet Wine & Cheese Trail. 877-426-6763 www.playinconroe.com 8 Orange/Shangri La Botanical Gardens: Easter Sunrise. 409-670-9113 www.shangrilagardens.org 12 Orange/W.H. Stark Foundation: Reception and Spotlight on Charlie Russell. 409-886-2787 www.starkmuseum.org 12 Orange/W.H. Stark Foundation: Charlie Russell’s Recollection of the Old West at Lutcher Theater. 409-886-2787 www.starkmuseum.org 13 Orange/W.H. Stark House Foundation: Easter Décor Display. 409-883-0871 13-14 Paris: “April in Paris Wine and Artfest”. 903-784-2501 www.pariswineandartfest.com 13-22 Conroe: Montgomery Co. Fair & Rodeo. 877-426-6763 www.playinconroe.com 14 Huntsville: Herb Festival. 800-289-0389 Nan. oleary@sbcglobal.net

14 Linden: Linden Lions Follies. 903-756-9934 www.musiccitytexas.org 14 Longview: Dalton Days, 9 am – 2 pm. Gregg Co. Historical Museum. 903-757-4444 14 Sour Lake: American Cancer Society Cook Off. 409-287-3573 14-15 Conroe: Spring Bluebonnet Wine & Cheese Trail. 877-426-6763 www.playinconroe.com 15-22 Orange/Shangri La Botanical Gardens: Earth Week. 409-670-9113 www.shangrilagardens.org 17 Greenville: Take Me Home, The Music of John Denver. 903-455-1510 17 Orange/Shangri La Botanical Gardens: Evening Outpost Tour. 409-670-9799 www.shangrilagardens.org 18 Orange/Shangri La Botanical Gardens: Birds and Boats. 409-670-9799 www.shangrilagardens.org 20 Orange/Shangri La Botanical Gardens: Evening Outpost Tour. 409-670-9799 www.shangrilagardens.org 20-21 Carthage/Panola Co: Main Street Quilt Show. 903-693-3869 www.carthagetexas.com 20-21 Ennis: Chamber BBQ Cook-Off. 972-878-4748 www.visitennis.org 20-21 Ennis: 10th Annual Preston St. Historical District Garage Sale. 972-878-4748 www.visitennis.org 20-21 Greenville: Audie Murphy Days. 903-455-1510 20-21 Longview: Longview PRCA Rodeo. 903-757-4444 www.longviewrodeo.com 20-22 Terrell: Annual Heritage Jubilee. 972-563-5703 www.terrelltexas.com 21 Carthage/Panola Co: Panola College SGA 5K Run and Strong Man Competition. 903-693-2000 www.carthagetexas.com 21 Linden: Charlie Robison performance. 903-756-9934 www.musiccitytexas.org 21 Orange/Shangri La Botanical Gardens: Eco-Fest, Bonsai for Beginners and Up-Close with Nature. 409-670-9113 www.shangrilagardens.org 21-22 Conroe: Spring Bluebonnet Wine & Cheese Trail. 877-426-6763 www.playinconroe.com 21-22 Ennis: Bluebonnet Trails Festival. 972-878-4748 www.visitennis.org 22 Orange/Shangri La Botanical Gardens: Earth Day and Butterfly Release. 409-670-9113 www.shangrilagardens.org 22 Port Arthur/Museum of the Gulf Coast: Opening event for Roscoe and the Pelican Rescue. 409-984-6444 27 Ennis: 2012 Relay for Life. 972-878-4748 www.visitennis.org 27-28 Athens: 27th Annual PRCA Stampede Rodeo. 903-675-5181 www.AthensTX.org 27-28 Huntsville: Gen. Sam Houston Folk Festival. 800-289-0389 www.samhoustonfolkfestival.org 27-28 Kountze: Big Thicket Trade Days. 409-246-3463 28 Greenville: Backstreet Bash. 903-455-1510 28 Linden: Bit Palomino Concert. 903-756-9934 www.musiccitytexas.org

28 Sour Lake: Old Timers Day Festival, Book Sale and Community Garage Sale. 409-287-3573 29-May 1 Jacksonville: Cherokee Theatre: Cheaper By the Dozen. 903-586-2217 www.cherokeetheatre.org

May Apr. 1-May 31 Port Arthur/Museum of the Gulf Coast: Exhibition of Roscoe and the Pelican Rescue. 409-984-6444 3-4 Canton: First Monday Trade Days. 877-462-7467 www.visitcantontxedc.com 4-5 Kountze/Hardin Co: Hardin Co. Music Fest. 409-246-3463 5 Athens: Cinco De Mayo Celebration. 903-670-2266 www.AthensTX.org 5 Athens: East Texas Arboretum Spring Gala. 903-675-5630 www.AthensTX.org 5 Clute: GoClute.com Car and Bike Show. 888-462-5883 www.goclute.com 5 Linden: Gospel Show. 903-756-9934 www.musiccitytexas.org 5 Orange/Shangri La Botanical Gardens: Adventure Series: Wild Edibles. 409-670-9799 www.shangrilagardens.org 5 Paris: 25th Anniversary of the Uncle Jesse Memorial Classic Bass Fishing Tournament. 800-737-4789 www.unklejessefishing.com 5-6 Conroe: Concours d’ Elegance of Texas. 877-426-6763 www.playinconroe.com 6-7 Jacksonville: Cherokee Theatre: Cheaper by the Dozen. 903-586-2217 www.cherokeetheatre.org 10-12 Tyler: Rebels & Roses. 903-952-2330 www.rebelsandroses.com 11-13 Canton: Lewis Auto Swap Meet. 877-462-7467 www.visitcantontxedc.com 11-13 Greenville: Native American Pow-Wow. 903-455-1510 12 Ennis: Texas Motorplex Super Chevy Show. 972-878-4748 www.visitennis.org 12 Orange/Shangri La Botanical Gardens: Mother-Daughter Tea. 409-883-0871 www.shangrilagardens.org 12 Port Arthur/Museum of the Gulf Coast: Children’s Book Week Celebration. 409-984-6444 14-19 Jacksonville: Western Week Activities. 903-586-2217 16-19 Jacksonville: PRCA Tops in Texas Rodeo. 903-586-2217 www.topsintexasrodeo.com 17 Carthage/Panola Co: Panola Co. PRCA Rodeo BBQ & Parade. 903-241-2419 www.carthagetexas.com 18 Orange/W.H. Stark Foundation: International Museum Day. 409-886-2787 www.starkmuseum.org 18-19 Carthage/Panola Co: Cattleman’s Assoc. PRCA Rodeo. 903-241-2419 www.carthagetexas.com 18-June 8 Lake Charles/Southwest LA: Downtown at Sundown Friday Concert Series. 337-436-9588 www.cityoflakecharels.com 19 Linden: Guy Clark Performance. 903-756-9934 www.musiccitytexas.org 19-21 Jefferson: Train Day. 903-665-2775

20 Terrell: Run for the Wall. 972-563-5703 www.terrelltexas.com 25 Athens: 81st Annual Old Fiddler’s Contest. 903-677-0775 www.AthensTX.org 25 Paris: Professional Bull Riding Competition. 800-737-4789 www.paristexas.com 25-26 Kountze: Big Thicket Trade Days. 409-246-3463 25-27 Ennis: National Polka Festival. 972-878-4748 www.visitennis.org 26 Ennis: 14th Annual Ennis Polkafest Run. 972-878-4748 www.visitennis.org 26 Orange/Shangri La Botanical Gardens: UpClose with Nature. 409-670-9113 www.shangrilagardens.org 26-27 Conroe: Southern Star Brew B Que. 877-426-6763 www.playinconroe.com 27-29 Jacksonville: Memorial Day Ride. 903-586-2217 www.riverrunpark.com 28 Orange/ Shangri La Botanical Gardens: Memorial Day Ceremony. 409-670-9113 www.shangrilagardens.org 31 Orange/W.H. Stark House Foundation: Miriam Melissa Lutcher Stark: A Fair Lady Display. 409-883-0871 www.whstarkhouse.org 31-June 3 Canton: First Monday Trade Days. 877-462-7467 www.visitcantontxedc.com

June May 31-3 Canton: First Monday Trade Days. 877-462-7467 www.visitcantontxedc.com 1-July 31 Port Arthur/Museum of the Gulf Coast: Exhibition: Blossom II: Art of Flowers. 409-984-6444 1 Bonham: Lake Bonham Hoe-Down. 903-583-9830 www.visitbonham.com 1 Denison: Music on Main. 903-464-4452 www.cityofdenison.com 1 Greenville: Dallas Symphony Orchestra Series in Greenville. 903-455-1510 1-2 Bonham: 5th Annual Highway 82 Yard Sale. 903-583-9830 www.visitbonham.com 1-2 Paris: 5th Annual HWY 82/287 Yard Sale. 800-737-4789 www.redrivervalley.info 1-10 DeSoto: SolJazz Festival. 972-224-3565 www.desotosoljazzfest.com 2 Athens: National Fishing Day. 903-670-2266 www.AthensTX.org 2 Bonham: Red River Valley Car Club Show. 903-583-9830 www.visitbonham.com 2 Orange/W.H. Stark House Foundation: From Russia: Fechin and Gaspard in the Southwest Display. 409-886-2787 www.whstarkhouse.org 2-3 Longview/Artsview Children’s Theater: Booby Trap. 903-236-7535 www.artsviewchildrenstheater.com 6-9 Grand Saline: 38th Annual Salt Festival. 903-962-5631www.saltfest.net 7 Sherman: Hot Summer Nights Concert. 888-893-1188 www.shermantx.org 7-10 Bonham: Bonham Trade Days. 903-583-9830 www.visitbonham.com

8 Bonham: Lake Bonham Hoe-Down. 903-583-9830 www.visitbonham.com 8 Denison: Music on Main. 903-464-4452 www.cityofdenison.com 8 Denison: I Like IKE 5K & Fun Run. 903-465-1551 www.denisontexas.us 8-9 Paris: Red River Valley Honkers Classic Car Show. 903-784-2501 rrvhonkers.com 8-10 Bonham: Theatre in the Garden. 903-583-9830 www.visitbonham.com 8-10 Canton: Lewis Auto Swap Meet. 877-462-7467 www.visitcantontxedc.com 8-17 Greenville: Hunt County Fair. 903-455-1510 9 Jacksonville: 28th Annual Tomato Fest. 903-586-2217 www.jacksonvilletexas.com 9-10 Terrell: North Texas Antique Tractor & Engine Club Show. 972-563-5703 www.terrelltexas.com 10 Port Arthur/Museum of the Gulf Coast: Opening Event for Blossom II: Art of Flowers. 409-984-6444 14 Sherman: Hot Summer Nights Concert. 888-893-1188 www.shermantx.org 15 Carthage/Panola Co: KMHT Gospel Concert. 903-923-8000 www.carthagetexas.com 15 Denison: Music on Main. 903-464-4452 www.cityofdenison.com 15-16 Plano: Heart of Texas Arts & Crafts Show. 972-422-6805 www.heartoftexasshow.com 15-17 Bonham: Theatre in the Garden. 903-583-9830 www.visitbonham.com 21 Sherman: Hot Summer Nights Concert. 888-893-1188 www.shermantx.org 22 Denison: Music on Main. 903-464-4452 www.cityofdenison.com 22-23 Bonham: Lake Bonham Hoe-Down. 903-583-9830 www.visitbonham.com 22-23 Kountze: Big Thicket Trade Days. 409-246-3463 22-23 Linden: 7th Annual T-Bone Walker Blues Fest. 903-756-9934 www.musiccitytexas.org 23 Carthage/Panola Co: John Ritter Tribute Showcase Auditions. 903-693-6634 www.carthagetexas.com 23 Conroe: Sounds of Texas Music Series. 877-426-6763 www.playinconroe.com 28 Sherman: Hot Summer Nights Concert. 888-893-1188 www.shermantx.org 28-July 1 Canton: First Monday Trade Days. 877-462-7467 www.visitcantontxedc.com 29 Denison: Music on Main. 903-464-4452 www.cityofdenison.com 30 Angleton: Freedom Festival. www.angleton.tx.us. 979-849-4364

July June 1-July 31 Port Arthur/Museum of the Gulf Coast: Exhibition: Blossom II: Art of Flowers. 409-984-6444 1-3 Jacksonville: 4th of July Ride. 903-586-2217 www.riverrunpark.com 2 Orange/Shangri La Botanical Gardens: The Art of Animals EcoRangers. 409-886-2787 www.shangrilagardens.org

Festivals & Events 2012/2013 3 Paris: Fireworks, Municipal Band, Parade. 903-737-4789 3 Sherman: Lights on the Lake. 888-892-1188 www.shermantx.org 4 Athens: Fireworks at the Fishery. 903-670-2266 www.AthensTX.org 4 Canton: City Wide Fireworks Display. 877-462-7467 www.visitcantontxedc.com 4 Denison: Fireworks Extravaganza. 903-465-1551 www.denisontexas.us 4 Huntsville: 4th of July Celebration. 800-289-0389 www.huntsvilletx.gov 4 Jacksonville: 4th of July Firework Celebration. 903-586-2217 www.jacksonvilletexas.com 4 Orange/Shangri La Botanical Gardens: 4th of July Concert. 409-670-9113 www.shangrilagardens.org 4 Terrell: Fireworks Display. 972-563-5703 www.terrelltexas.com 4 Woodville: Fourth of July Picnic. 409-283-2272 5 Sherman: Hot Summer Nights Concert. 8 88-893-1188 www.shermantx.org 5-8 Bonham: Bonham Trade Days. 903-583-9830 www.visitbonham.com 6 Bonham: Lake Bonham Hoe-Down. 903-583-9830 www.visitbonham.com 6 Denison: Music on Main. 903-464-4452 www.cityofdenison.com 6 Orange/Shangri La Botanical Gardens: Forensic Artist Lois Gibson Lecture and Reception. 409-886-2787 www.shangrilagardens.org 6-8 Conroe: Cjams Music Festival. 877-426-6763 www.playinconroe.com 12 Sherman: Hot Summer Nights Concert. 888-893-1188 www.shermantx.org 12-15 Longview/Artsview Children’s Theater: Junchback of Notre Dame. 903-236-7535 www.artsviewchildrenstheater.com 13 Bonham: Lake Bonham Hoe-Down. 903-583-9830 www.visitbonham.com 13 Denison: Music on Main. 903-464-4452 www.cityofdenison.com 14 Orange/Shangri La Botanical Gardens: Family Day. 409-886-2787 www.shangrilagardens.org 16-20 Canton: East Texas Baptist Camp Meeting. 877-462-7467 www.visitcantontxedc.com 19 Sherman: Hot Summer Nights Concert. 888-893-1188 www.shermantx.org 20 Carthage/Panola Co: KGAS Gospel Concert. 903-693-6668 www.carthagetexas.com 20 Denison: Music on Main. 903-464-4452 www.cityofdenison.com 21 Paris: 28th Annual Tour de Paris Bicycle Rally. 903-784-2501 www.tourdeparis.com 21-22 Conroe: Harvest Wine Trail. 877-426-6763 www.playinconroe.com 23-27 Orange/Shangri La Botanical Gardens: Plants in Perspective EcoRangers. 409-886-2787 www.shangrilagardens.org 26 Sherman: Hot Summer Nights Concert. 888-893-1188 www.shermantx.org 26-28 Clute: The Great Texas Mosquito Festival. 800-371-2971 www.mosquitofestival.com

27 Bonham: Lake Bonham Hoe-Down. 903-583-9830 www.visitbonham.com 27 Denison: Music on Main. 903-464-4452 www.cityofdenison.com 27-28 Kountze: Big Thicket Trade Days. 409-246-3463 27-29 Longview: Great Texas Balloon Race. 903-757-4444 www.GTBR.com 28 Bonham: Textile Exhibit – Quilt Hop. 903-583-9830 www.visitbonham.com 28 Bonham: Lake Bonham Hoe-Down. 903-583-9830 www.visitbonham.com 28-29 Conroe: Harvest Wine Trail. 877-426-6763 www.playinconroe.com 30 Orange/Shangri La Botanical Gardens: Baskets, Bowls, and Botany EcoRangers. 409-886-2787 www.shangrilagardens.org

August 1-Sept. 30 Port Arthur/Museum of the Gulf Coast: Exhibition: Blossom II: Art of Flowers. 409-984-6444 1-5 Ennis: National Bikers Round-Up. 972-878-4748 www.visitennis.org 2-5 Canton: First Monday Trade Days. 877-462-7467 www.visitcantontxedc.com 3 Bonham: Lake Bonham Hoe-Down. 903-583-9830 www.visitbonham.com 4 Conroe: Sounds of Texas Music Series. 877-426-6763 www.playinconroe.com 9-12 Bonham: Bonham Trade Days. 903-583-9830 www.visitbonham.com 10 Bonham: Lake Bonham Hoe-Down. 903-583-9830 www.visitbonham.com 10-11 Plano: Quilt Plano. 972-422-6805 www.quiltersguildofplano.org 17 Carthage/Panola Co: John Ritter Tribute Showcase. 903-693-6634 www.carthagetexas.com 17-19 Jacksonville: Hot Fun Summer Run. 903-586-2217 18 Carthage/Panola Co: KGAS Tex Ritter Roundup. 903-693-6668 www.carthagetexas.com 18 Carthage/Panola Co: Annual Texas Country Music Hall of Fame Awards Show. 903-693-6634 www.carthagetexas.com 19 Atlanta: Moonlight Madness. 903-796-6041 24-25 Bonham: Lake Bonham Hoe-Down. 903-583-9830 www.visitbonham.com 24-25 Kountze: Big Thicket Trade Days. 409-246-3463 25 Paris: 43rd Bug Tussle Trek for Farmersville to Paris. 800-737-4789 30-Sept 2 Canton: First Monday Trade Days. 877-462-7467 www.visitcantontxedc.com 31 Paris: 18th Annual Chaparral Square Dance Convention. 800-737-4789

September Aug. 1-Sept. 30 Port Arthur/Museum of the Gulf Coast: Exhibition: Blossom II: Art of Flowers. 409-984-6444

Aug. 30-2 Canton: First Monday Trade Days. 877-462-7467 www.visitcantontxedc.com 1 Huntsville: Town Creek Music Festival. 936-291-9726 www.huntsvilletexas.com 2 Huntsville: Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church Bazaar. 936-344-6104 8 Atlanta: Hoot-N-Holler BBQ, 903-796-6041 8 Ennis: Texas Motorplex Fun Ford Weekend. 972-878-4748 www.visitennis.org 14 Greenville: Rally ‘Round Greenville Festival Kick-off Concert. 903-455-1510 15 Jacksonville: 10th Annual Harvest Fest. 903-586-2217 15 Longview: Monster Truck Fall Nationals, Lone Star Speedway. 903-757-4444 15 Sherman: Sherman Arts Festival. 888-892-1188 www.shermantx.org 15 Terrell: British Flying Training School Museum Fly In. 972-563-5703 www.terrelltexas.com 15-16 Greenville: Rally ‘Round Greenville Music Fest. 903-455-1510 15-16 Huntsville: Huntsville Antique Show. 936-295-4162 20-23 Ennis: 27th Annual AAA Texas Fall Nationals. 972-878-4748 www.visitennis.org 21 Paris: Southern Gospel Music Association. 800-737-4789 21-23 Plano: Plano Balloon Festival. 972-867-7566 www.planoballoonfest.org 22 Orange/W.H. Stark Foundation: Smithsonian Museum Day. 409-886-2787 www.starkmuseum.org 23-27 Denison: US National Aerobatics. 903-465-1551 www.denisontexas.us 27-30 Canton: First Monday Trade Days. 877-462-7467 www.visitcantontxedc.com 28-29 Kountze: Big Thicket Trade Days. 409-246-3463 28-29 Jacksonville: Thunder in the Pines Motorcycle Rally. 903-586-2217 www.jacksonvillerally.com 28-30 Conroe: Toyota Texas Bass Classic. 877-426-6763 www.playinconroe.com 29 Woodville: Ghost of Texas Past. 409-283-2272

October 1-31 Tyler: Rose Season. 903-592-1661 www.roseseason.com 1-Dec. 31 Port Arthur/Museum of the Gulf Coast: Exhibition: Lights, Camera, Action! Southeast Texas Ties to Film. 409-984-6444 4-7 Ennis: Summit Racing ET Bracket Finals. 972-878-4748 www.visitennis.org 5 Denison: Main Street Fall Festival. 903-465-1551 www.denisontexas.us 5-7 Canton: Lewis Auto Swap Meet. 877-462-7467 www.visitcantontxedc.com 5-7 Plano: Heart of Texas Arts & Crafts Show. 972-422-6805 www.heartoftexasshow.com 6 Huntsville: Fair on the Square. 936-295-8113 www.chamber.huntsville.tx.us 6-13 Orange/Shangri La Botanical Gardens: Orchid Festival. 409-670-9113 www.shangrilagardens.org

6-Nov. 25 Conroe: Texas Renaissance Festival (weekends only). 877-426-6763 www.playinconroe.com 6-7 Conroe: Wine & Sausage Trail. 877-426-6763 www.playinconroe.com 11-13 Canton: Annual Quilt Show. 877-462-7467 www.visitcantontxedc.com 12-14 Canton: Tyler Kennel Club All Breed Dog Show. 877-462-7467 www.visitcantontxedc.com 12-14 Conroe: Cajun Catfish Festival. 877-426-6763 www.playinconroe.com 13 Athens: East Texas Arboretum Fall Festival. 903-675-5630 www.AthensTX.org 13 Canton: Autumn Stroll Festival & Sanctioned BBQ Cook-off. 877-462-7467 www.visitcantontxedc.com 13 Carthage/Panola Co: East Texas Oil & Gas Blast. 903-927-8251 www.sirratts@bp.com 13 Kountze: Pumpkin Patch. 409-246-3463 13-14 Conroe: Wine & Sausage Trail. 877-426-6763 www.playinconroe.com 14-17 Jacksonville: Mudstock. 903-586-2217 www.riverrunpark.com 16-Nov. 10 Orange/Shangri La Botanical Gardens: 4th Annual Scarecrow Festival. 409-670-9113 www.shangrilagardens.org 18-20 Tyler: Texas Rose Festival. 903-597-3130 19-20 Ennis: ADRL World Finals. 972-878-4748 www.visitennis.org 19-21 Paris: Texas Square Dance Convention. 800-737-4789 19-21 Woodville: Annual Harvest Festival. 409-283-2272 20 Carthage/Panola Co: St. Williams Catholic Church Cajun Fest. 903-693-3766 www.carthagetexas.com 20 Ennis: Autumn Days in Ennis Fall Festival. 972-878-4748 www.visitennis.org 20 Jacksonville: Cherokee County Hay Show. 903-586-2217 www.jacksonvilletexas.com 20 Kountze: Pumpkin Patch. 409-246-3463 25 Clute: Harvest Fun Fest. 800-371-2971 www.ci.clute.tx.us 25-27 Denison: Kustom Kemps Car Show. 903-465-1551 www.denisontexas.us 26-27 Kountze: Big Thicket Trade Days. 409-246-3463 27 Athens: Halloween Happenings. 903-677-2001 www.AthensTX.org 27 Kountze: Pumpkin Patch. 409-246-3463 27 Paris: 13th Annual “Festival of Pumpkins”. 903-784-9293 www.paristexas.gov 31 Jacksonville: Street Sweets. 903-586-2217 www.jacksonvilletexas.com 27 Carthage/Panola Co: Beans & Cornbread Festival. 903-692-1768 www.carthagetexas.com www.shangrilagardens.org 29 Canton: Children’s Fall Festival. 877-462-7467 www.visitcantontxedc.com 31 Huntsville: Scare on the Square. 936-295-2150 www.huntsvillemainstreet.com 31 Huntsville: Halloween Carnival. 936-291-8736 www.walkercofair.com

November 6-Nov. 25 Conroe: Texas Renaissance Festival (weekends only). 877-426-6763 www.playinconroe.com

Festivals & Events 2012/2013 1-4 Canton: First Monday Trade Days. 877-4627467 www.visitcantontxedc.com Nov. 1-Dec. 31 Port Arthur/Museum of the Gulf Coast: Exhibition: Lights, Camera, Action! Southeast Texas Ties to Film. 409-984-6444 Nov. 1-Dec. 31 Tyler: Rose Capital Christmas. 903-592-1661 www.visittyler.com 3 Jacksonville: Spooktacular Bull Bash. 903-586-5950 3-4 Denison: Fall Art Tour & Raku Rumble. 903-465-1551 www.denisontexas.us 9-11 Canton: Lewis Auto Swap Meet. 877-462-7467 www.visitcantontxedc.com 10 Grand Saline: Peanut Butter Festival. 903-962-8172 www.nuttyspeanutbutter.com 10 Henderson: 23rd Heritage Syrup Fest. 866-650-5529-1551 www.VistiHendersonTX.com 10 Orange/Shangri La Botanical Gardens: Autumn Fair. 409-670-9113 www.shangrilagardens.org 10-13 Plano: ‘Neath the Wreath’ Holiday Gift Market. 972-769-0557 www.neaththewreath.org 10-30 Athens: Christmas Park Land of Lights. 903-675-7469 www.christmasparkathens.net 15-18 Longview/Artsview Children’s Theater: Pippi Longstocking. 903-236-7535 www.artsviewchildrenstheater.com 17-18 Angleton: Market Days. www.angleton.tx.us. 979-849-4364 17 Carthage/Panola Co: “All That Glitters” Gala Auction. 903-693-6634 chamber@carthagetexas.com 18 Atlanta: Holiday Open House. 903-796-6041 20-21 Orange/W.H. Stark Foundation: Drop-In Art Activities. 409-886-2787 www.starkmuseum.org 22 Athens: 15th Annual Cain Center Turkey Trot. 903-677-2001 www.AthensTX.org 23 Orange/W.H. Stark Foundation: Drop-In Art Activities. 409-886-2787 www.starkmuseum.org 23-24 Kountze: Big Thicket Trade Days. 409-246-3463 25-27 Jacksonville: Thanksgiving Day Ride. 903-586-2217 www.riverrunpark.com 29-Dec 2 Canton: First Monday Trade Days. 877-462-7467 www.visitcantontxedc.com 29-Dec. 30 Denison: Holiday Lights. 903-465-1551 www.denisontexas.us 30 Kountze: Fireworks and Lighted Christmas Parade. 409-246-3463 30 Paris: 7th Annual Holiday in Paris. 800-737-4789 www.holidayinparistexas.com

December Nov. 1-Dec. 31 Port Arthur/Museum of the Gulf Coast: Exhibition: Lights, Camera, Action! Southeast Texas Ties to Film. 409-984-6444 Nov. 1-Dec. 31 Tyler: Rose Capital Christmas. 903-592-1661 www.visittyler.com Nov 29-2 Canton: First Monday Trade Days. 877-462-7467 www.visitcantontxedc.com 1 Atlanta: Christmas Parade. 903-796-6041 1 Denison: Downtown Celebration & Historic Tour. 903-464-4452 www.smalltownbigart.com 1 Huntsville: Christmas in Huntsville offer many family activities and family fun. 936-291-5920

1 Lake Charles/Southwest LA: Annual Gingerbread House Contest. 337-436-9588 www.visitlakecharles.org/cajunchristmas 1 Terrell: Social Science Club Home Tour. 972-563-5703 www.terrelltexas.com 1 Woodville: Christmas Twilight Tour. 409-283-2272 1-Jan 2 Athens: Christmas Park Land of Lights. 903-675-7469 www.christmasparkathens.net 1-2 Conroe: Holiday Crystal Wine Trail. 877-426-6763 www.playinconroe.com 1-2 Huntsville: Journey Through Bethlehem. 936-295-7459 www.journeythroughbethlehem.org 1-31 Conroe: Christmas Celebration. 877-426-6763 www.playinconroe.com 1-31 Lake Charles/Southwest LA: Southwest Louisiana Christmas Lighting Festival. www.visitlakecharles.org/cajunchristmas 2 Paris: 7th Annual Holiday in Paris. 800-737-4789 www.holidayinparistexas.com 3-6 Canton: First Monday Trade Days. 877-462-7467 www.visitcantontxedc.com 3 Carthage/Panola Co: Christmas Parade. 903-693-6634 chamber@carthagetexas.com 5 Beckville/Panola Co: Christmas Parade. 903-678-3661 6 Denison: Christmas Parade. 903-465-1551 www.denisontexas.us 6 Jacksonville: Lighting of Hazel Tilton Park & Christmas Parade. 903-586-2217 www.jacksonvilletexas.com 6 Orange/Shangri La Botanical Gardens: Evening Christmas Strolls. 409-670-9113 www.shangrilagardens.org 6-8 Clute: Christmas in the Park. 800-371-2971 www.ci.clute.tx.us 7 Angleton: Heart of Christmas. www.angleton.tx.us. 979-849-4364 7-9 Paris: 7th Annual Holiday in Paris. 800-737-4789 www.holidayinparistexas.com 8 Canton: Annual Lighted Evening Christmas Parade. 877-462-7467 www.visitcantontxedc.com 8 Carthage/Panola Co: Breakfast with Santa. 903-693-3461 www.carthagetexas.com 8 Orange/Shangri La Botanical Gardens: Evening Christmas Strolls. 409-670-9113 www.shangrilagardens.org 8 Terrell: Christmas Parade. 972-563-5703 www.terrelltexas.com 8-9 Conroe: Holiday Crystal Wine Trail. 877-426-6763 www.playinconroe.com 11-22 Orange/Shangri La Botanical Gardens: Evening Christmas Strolls. 409-670-9113 www.shangrilagardens.org 15-16 Orange/Shangri La Botanical Gardens: Dreaming of a Green Christmas. 409-670-9113 www.shangrilagardens.org 26-28 Orange/W.H. Stark Foundation: Drop-In Art Activities. 409-886-2787 www.starkmuseum.org 28-29 Kountze: Big Thicket Trade Days. 409-246-3463 31-Jan. 2 Jacksonville: New Year’s Ride. 903-586-2217 www.riverrunpark.com

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from Gulf to prairies to bayous, small 270 31 towns to the South’s largest cities. 63 69 Gateway cities to the region are Dallas, Houston, and Shreveport-Bossier 75 City. To the northwest is green country, great lakes, cotton fields, dairy farms, cosmopolitan pleasures, major tourist attractions. To the northeast in three states are the pineywoods, storied Caddo Lake, giant man-made lakes, 3 plantation areas, ante-bellum homes, riverboat casinos. In the69 east central Bu s

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380

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380

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342

276

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144

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10 24

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Mesquite

635

Cedar Hill

Lake Joe Pool SP

205

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635

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Texas Queen Riverboat Cruise

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360 Arrlington

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Study the Guide, and its regions, and find host cities you like along our fine highway system. Chart circles around them on the set of maps and stay awhile and get acquainted.

164

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Buffalo Stampede

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"Hoss Cartwright's" Birthplace, grave Rock Star Ricky Nelson died here in plane crash

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259

LAKE HUGO REC. AREA Raymond Gary

Lake Train

Broken Bow Lake

Sa C nA am nt in oni o

Hugo

Ouachita National Forest

Arkadelphia

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TEXAS STATE TRAVEL INFORMATION CENTERS

Where East To West Texas Guides & Fun Maps are available.

Amarillo 9700 Interstate Hwy 40, E. (806) 335-1441 Anthony 8799 S. Desert Blvd. (915) 886-3468

Texarkana 5909 N. Park Rd. 1200 Interstate Hwy 30 (903) 794-2114 Valley 2021 W. Harrison (956) 428-4477

Austin Capitol Complex (512) 463-8586

Harlingen (956) 428-4477

Denison 6801 U.S. Highway 75/69 (903) 463-2860

Waskom 1255 I-20, East (903) 687-2547

Gainesville 4901 N. Interstate 35 (940) 665-2301

Wichita Falls 900 Central Freeway Exit C, North (940) 723-7931

Langtry U.S. Highway 90, Loop 25 (432) 291-3340 Laredo 15551 Interstate Hwy 35, N. (956) 417-4728 Orange 1708 Interstate Hwy 10, E. (409) 883-9416

WHO TO CALL

• For East Texas trip routing help, call our advertisers. For updates of the Guide, check our Home Page www.EastTexasGuide.com. For more local information, call cities in the Guide. • For statewide travel counseling within Texas, call TxDOT Travel Information at 1-800-452-9292. • For camping reservations, and for hunting and fishing license information, call the Texas Parks & Wildlife at (512) 389-8900.

Facts About Texas

Texas is the only state that was once a sovereign nation, The Republic of Texas. Texas had its own armed forces including a Navy, currency and representatives to the United States. And Texas reserved the right to divide itself into five separate states after its annexation in 1845 to gain more senators to represent its vast area if the need ever arose. To know Texas is to love Texas. Friendly is literally the name of our state, so called for the Tejas Indians.

Here are some facts:

Population est. 2008; 24,326,974. Area, 267,339 square miles, of which more than 6,000 square miles is water. The capital is Austin; nickname, Lone Star State, named for the star on the flag. The state flower is the bluebonnet and the motto is friendship. The highest point, 8,751 Ft. Guadalupe Peak. From the panhandle to the southern tip of Texas is 801 miles. And 773 miles from Sabine River to El Paso. Our temperatures have ranged from -23F to 120F. Speed limit, up to 70 mph or as posted. We are in the Central Time Zone (DST) except far West Texas. Minimum age for drivers, 16 with approved driver education course; 18 without. We use the information in the Guide as our data base for our Home Page on the Internet. Call our staff at 903-757-4444 today to learn how you can benefit from participation in our program.

By Shelly Plante, Texas Parks & Wildlife Department Adventure for Wildlife Enthusiasts The Great Texas Wildlife Trails are designed to make it easy for travelers to find the best wildlife-viewing sites throughout the state. They bring tourism dollars to rural communities, raise awareness about Texas wildlife and habitats, provide recreational opportunities, build public support for conservation, and provide economic incentives for landowners and communities to conserve and manage habitats for wildlife and wildlife enthusiasts. Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail The hugely successful Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail, winds through 41 Texas counties, encompassing the entire Texas coastal region. Completed in April 2000, the Trail features 310 distinct wildlife-viewing sites. Enhancements such as board-walks, parking pullouts, kiosks, observation platforms, and landscaping to attract native wildlife have been constructed at a number of sites. Heart of Texas and Panhandle Plains Wildlife Trails Stretching from the Panhandle down through Central Texas to the Laredo area, these two wildlife viewing driving trails were completed in January 2004. Two maps for the Heart of Texas Trail and one for the Panhandle Plains Trail were created. The new trails feature 335 sites on public and private land where people can view birds and other wildlife. We appreciate the support of communities and landowners in Central Texas and the Panhandle who have helped make these trails a reality.

The Prairies and Pineywoods Wildlife Trail Next time you travel in Texas, visit our newest wildlife viewing trails! We have two new maps featuring 251 sites on public and private lands throughout north and east Texas. Sites on these maps give additional opportunities for nature tourists to visit all of the wonderful attractions Texas has to offer. From Wichita Falls to Dallas and Fort Worth, down to College Station and to Tyler, these are our most expansive maps yet. Additional information on the Great Texas Wildlife Trails should be directed to Shelly Plante, Nature Tourism Coordinator, Texas Parks and Wildlife Dept., 4200 Smith School Road, Austin, Texas 78744, phone (512) 389-4500 or e-mail: NatureTourism@tpwd.state.tx.us Buy one or more GREAT TEXAS WILDLIFE TRAIL MAPS today and start an adventure on the wild side of Texas. You can order online at http://tcebookstore. org/ or by calling (888) 900-2577. For the first time, all eight trail maps are available online for lastminute trips. Visit www.tpwd.state.tx.us/wildlifetrails/ for a sneak preview of what the maps have to offer.

Rivers, Lakes & The Sea

Splashville From great fishing to fun in the sun, here’s a refreshing guide to spotting some of Texas’s most sought after marina’s

From salt water to fresh water lakes, Texas has it all! This section features the myriad of fresh water impoundments from Lake Fork – nationally renowned black bass lunker producer – to acclaimed “Fishing Capital of The World” at Toledo Bend – sprawling over Texas and Louisiana along 65 miles of state line that provides the south’s largest man-made fishery. And on the state line above is Caddo Lake. Just try any of our water treasures for a lifetime of memories.

Texas Lakes LAKE ATHENS – 1,520 ac., E. of Athens via TX31 & FM 2495. LAKE B. A. STEINHAGEN – 13,700 ac. (Dam B/Town Bluff Reservoir). Between Jasper and Woodville. Martin Dies Jr. State Park. Fish, boat, swim, camp. Facilities. See Jasper and Woodville. 817-886-1731, www.swf-wc.usace. army.mil/idex.htm

LAKE BOB SANDLIN – Built on Big Cypress Bayou, the lake began filling in 1977 to cover some 9,460 acres. These waters back up to the dams of two other members of this triple body of water, Lake Cypress Springs and Lake Monticello. State Park See Guide maps for location. LAKE BONHAM – 1200 ac., ski & jet skis. Black bass, hybrid stripers, channel/blue catfish, crappie. Camp, picnic, 9-hole/min. golf, pavilion, See Bonham, 903-583-8001. www.bonhamchamber.com CADDO LAKE – 25,400 ac. On Texas-Louisiana border. South’s largest natural lake. Wilderness, Cypress trees, Spanish moss, lily pads. Named “man & biosphere preserve” by UNESCO. State Park, Cypress trees, Spanish moss, lily pads, alligators, birding, canoeing, water sports, fish, a photographer’s paradise. CONTACT: Greater Marshall Chamber of Commerce, 903/935-7868, www.marshalltxchamber .com and Marion County Chamber of Commerce, Jefferson TX 75657. 903/665-2672, www.jefferson-Texas.com LAKE JIM CHAPMAN/COOPER DAM – Newest East Texas Lake. State park. South of Paris. 817-886-1731, www.swf-wc.usace.army.mil/ idex.htm

LAKE CROOK – Three miles north of Paris off US 271. Fishing, camping and family activities. Paris V&CCD, 800-PARIS TX. LAKE CYPRESS SPRINGS – Another in the set of “triplets”, Cypress Springs was impounded in 1970 in Franklin County with 3,400 acres of top fishing waters. The waters of Lake Bob Sandlin back up to the dam on Cypress Creek. For lake services on the triplet lakes (Bob Sandlin, Cypress Springs & Monticello) call contacts in the Mt. Vernon ad. LAKE GILMER – SH852, 4 mi. W Gilmer. 1,010 surface ac. 1,557 ac or mitigation property to develop into hiking/nature trails/bird watch stations. For info, contact Gilmer City Hall, 903843-2552, www.gilmer-tx.com GLADEWATER LAKE – US 80, 1 mi. W. of US 271. E. Lake Dr. N. 1/2 mi., Gay Ave. W. 2 mi. Swim, fish, baits, boat rentals, picnic, playground. LAKE HAWKINS – 5 mi. NW Hawkins, N. of US 80. Wood Co. RV Park, sandy beach w/pavilion and public boat ramp. HOUSTON COUNTY LAKE – 1,282 ac., Trophy largemouth bass to 15.2 lbs., yellow flathead catfish to 80 lbs., abundant crappie and bluegill. Facilities. 8 mi. W. of Crockett @ FM 229 and N. CR 2140. Contact: Crockett Family Resort, Rt. 3, Box 460, Crockett, TX 75835, 936-544-8466 www.crockettresort.com. LAKE FORK RESERVOIR – 27,690 acres about 100 miles east of Dallas near Quitman. Proof of leading producer of trophy-size bass can be seen in that the lake holds the current record of 18.18 pounds as well as having produced 15 of the top 20 bass in the state and 37 of top 50. Good Crappie & catfish facilities. YOUR HOST: Rains County Chamber of Commerce & Emory. 903-473-3913. Lake Georgetown - For the more serious angler or water enthusiast, this 1200 acre lake offers boating, skiing, fishing, four separate camping areas, a wildlife preserve and 16 miles of hiking trails. Off Williams Drive/Andice Rd. (512) 930-5253 http://www.swf-wc.usace.army. mil/georgetown/ LAKE HOLBROOK – 653-ac. for recreation/ flood control. County campground, swim beach. LAKE JACKSONVILLE – 1,320 acres. About four miles south of Jacksonville off US 69, also accessible from Rusk. LAKE LIMESTONE – Favorite place for water-based activities. Cabins, campsites, public boat ramps & picnic areas. Best bass fishing. Loc. just off SH 164 or FM 937. Open for free public use. LAKE LIVINGSTON – 93,000 ac. lake - assorted marinas, camp-grounds/RV hook-ups, and vacation homes/rentals. Varied water sports/ activities.

Livingston-Polk County Chamber, Livingston, 936-327-4929. www.polkchamber.com LAKE MURVAUL – 3,820 ac., trophy bass lake, waterfowl hunting in winter. Camp, fish, ski, boat, swim. 12 mi. SW Carthage via FM 10. YOUR HOST: Panola County Chamber of Commerce, Carthage, 903-693-6634. LAKE O’ THE PINES – 18,700 ac., scenic rolling forests. See Jefferson, Marshall. Facilities. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, 817-8861731. www.swf-wc.usace.army.mil/index.htm. Lake Nacogdoches – Located on Loco Bayou, 10 miles west of Nacogdoches off FM 225, this 2,200 acre lake offers a great place to catch largemouth bass, crappie and sunfish. Access the lake from FM 225 West. 888-OLDEST-TOWN or www.visitnacogdoches.org

LAKE PALESTINE – One of Texas’ prettiest vacation & retirement lakes, with water sports, fish avail. 25,560 ac. 13 mi. NW Jacksonville via US 175 W. LAKE PAT MAYSE –5,993 ac., 62 mi. shoreline. Facilities. Very popular boat & fish lake. 13 mi. N of Paris off US 271; near Arthur City & Chicota. LAKE SAM RAYBURN – At 114,500 acres, largest lake wholly in Texas. Fishing, hunting. Parks, camps, marinas and rec. area dot 560- mi. shoreline in the heart of the Angelina National Forest. Open water for all kinds of boating, plus huge areas of flooded timber providing prime fish habitat. 817-886-1731. www.swfwc.usace.army.mil/idex.htm LAKE TAWAKONI –Sand bass, catfish, stripers. 36,700 ac. reservoir. Clean, uncrowded, ideal for recreational water sports. Rains County CofC. 903-473-3913. LAKE TEXOMA – 89,000 ac.-Red River between TX & OK. W/black bass/crappie/ white bass/striped bass/hybrids/catfish. Water sports. A Lake Texoma license costing $12.00 allows fishing in both Texas and Oklahoma waters of the lake. Your Hosts: Denison Area Chamber of Commerce, 903/465-1551. www.denisontexas.com Sherman Convention & Visitors Council, Toll-free: 888/893-1188. www.shermantexas.com LAKE TOMBIGBEE LIVINGSTON – 26 ac., fish, swim, canoe/teepee rent, camp, cabins/ kitchen/ bath, grocery, laundromat, RV, AlabamaCoushatta Tribe. 936-563-1100. LAKE WRIGHT PATMAN – (formerly Texarkana) – 20,300 ac. Corps of Eng. Facilities. Fish, hunt, watersports, camp, picnic, hike. Atlanta State Park. 12 mi. SW Texarkana off US 59. Atlanta Chamber, (903) 796-3296. Texarkana Chamber, 903-792-7191. 817-8861731, www.swfwc.usace.army.mil /idex.htm

MARTIN CREEK LAKE – 5,200 ac., black bass, catfish, crappie, bluegills. 3.19 lbs. State Park. 4 mi. SW of Tatum via TX 43. Henderson CVB, 903-657-2119. LAKE MONTICELLO – Another of the “triplets”, this 2,000-acre power generating reservoir was filled in 1973 and has since gained notoriety for its big bass. Three of the top 50 in the state have been caught here. OLD FT. PARKER LAKE – Loc. between Mexia & Groesbeck off SH 14. Camp, boat, nature observation. Playground, picnic area, pavilion, clubhouse avail. 254-562-5751. LAKE QUITMAN – 814 ac., 4 mi. N. of Quitman FM 2966. TOLEDO BEND RESERVOIR – Sabine County, Texas and other counties. The big one, 181,600 acres impounded on the Sabine River between Texas and Louisiana, is operated jointly by the Sabine River Authorities of each state. Nation’s 5th largest man-made lake. Top bass lake in the country. Camp, cabins, fish, guides. A part of the Texas shoreline is within the Sabine National Forest. Excellent facilities ranging from wilderness to resort quality are abundant. San Augustine County Chamber of Commerce, 409-275-3610, www.sanaugustinetx.com and Shelby County/Center Chamber of Commerce, 936-598-3682. www.shelbycountychamber.com LAKE WINNSBORO – 806-ac. recreational impoundment w/campsites, RV hook-ups, picnic, swim, marina, boat rent, bait, tackle. SW of Winnsboro via TX 37. (See Winnsboro Area Chamber of Commerce, 903-342-3666, www.winnsboro.com /www.winnsboroedc.com).

The Sea THE GULF OF MEXICO

Most rivers of East Texas and West Louisiana empty into the sea in the Gulf of Mexico. The two states supply many miles of beaches and salt water for many types of exciting recreation. East Texas and West Louisiana seashores offer sizeable cities such as Orange and Port Arthur at the mouths of significant rivers like the Sabine and Neches. Massive estuaries and wetlands are full of fish, birds and other wildlife that provide world-class fun and activities.

UPPER GULF COAST. The upper Texas Gulf

Coast offers many opportunities for the outdoor enthusiast. Sabine Lake offers year around fishing, boating and sailing. Fed by the Neches and Sabine Rivers and connected to the Gulf, fishermen land flounder, redfish, and speckled trout in Sabine Lake. The Sabine Jetties are 2-3 mile granite structures that serve as artificial reefs that create a habitat for an astounding variety of fish and other marine life.

Of course offshore options in the Gulf of Mexico are always an option as well as surf fishing at Sea Rim State Park. Pleasure Island has several lighted fishing piers, public boat ramps, bait shops and RV parks as well as a marina. An additional marina is available in Sabine Pass. Boat ramps are also available in Sabine Pass and Port Neches Park. For more information on fishing the Port Arthur area, call 800-235-7822 for a fishing packet. So, whether you want to a chartered fishing trip or just want to fish from a pier, we have it all year around.

Port Arthur CVB, 800-235-7822, www.portarthur texas.com. Also contact the Orange CVB at 1-800-528-4906, www.orangetexas.org. From Orange to Freeport, anglers fishing a few miles offshore can look forward to Black Tip Shark and Tarpon mid-summer through the fall. Charters range from $200 for a half day to $500 for a full day including bait and tackle. To entertain the offshore enthusiast, public and private charters are available from nine miles to 100 miles offshore. Fishing 25 to 40 miles offshore, anglers can catch Kingfish, Snapper, Dorado, Shark and can enjoy a good fight with a Cobia (Ling). From 40 to 80 miles out, battle the fighting Amber Jack, Grouper, Kingfish, Red Snapper, Cobia, Dorado, Sailfish, Tuna and Wahoo as well as Bull, Sand, Hammerhead and Tiger sharks. Offshore charters range from $750 to $1,350 depending on the boat size. Party boat trips are available for about $50 per person. A Texas fishing license may not be required. For more information, contact Texas Parks & Wildlife at 512-389-4802. www.tpwd.state.tx.us/ park/fishing enthusiasts can fish free of charge in Galveston off the rock groins or break-waters along the Seawall. There are also public piers at 61st Street and Seawall Boulevard and 89th Street and Seawall Boulevard, which charge a small fee. The Brazosport area is located approximately one hour south of Houston and less than three hours from some of the greatest fishing areas on the Gulf Coast. There are dozens of boat ramps, marinas, and bait and tackle businesses in the Brazosport area, making it a boat owner’s paradise. For others, the deep Gulf is easily accessible from the dozens of charter and party boats of all sizes that make their head-quarters in Freeport and surrounding areas. Experienced captains and crews make fishing out where the “big ones” are an exciting and enjoyable event. Year round, the catches are large from offshore fishing. CONTACT: Brazosport CVB, www.tourtexas.com/brazosport efischer@brazosport.com

There are 21 developed recreational areas,

four hiking trails, a scenic area, and off-road vehicle trails among opportunities available in the four National Forests in East Texas. Camping if offered on a first-come, first-served basis in developed recreation areas, and a daily use fee is charged at most areas. The 20-mile Four C Hiking Trail is located in Davy Crockett National Forest, the 140-mile long Lone Star Hiking Trail traverses Sam Houston National Forest, the Sawmill Hiking Trailis in the Angelina National Forest, and the Trail Between the Lakes winds 28 miles from Toledo Bend to near Rayburn Reservoir. The four forests area: Angelina National Forest – This large forest has 7 developed recreational areas and 2 hiking trails w/misc. services. See Lufkin CVB.

Davy Crockett National. Forest – Between Crockett and Lufkin, this forest provides 3 developed recreation areas, 2 hiking trails, and misc. services. Sabine National Forest – Located along the shoreline of the Toledo Bend Reservoir, this 93,000-acre giant teeming with wildlife, & bird life, has five recreation sites, hiking trails. Call Center, San Augustine, TX. Sam Houston National Forest – 3 rec areas, 2 hiking trails misc. services, year ‘round recreation. Call Huntsville. For further information on the four National Forests in East Texas, write National Forests & Grasslands in Texas, 415 S. First Street, Ste. 110, Lufkin TX 75901 or call 936-639-8501.

Big Thicket: Biological Crossroad From the

confluence of the Neches River and the Angelina below Sam Rayburn Lake south to Lake Sabine near Beaumont and northwest to the Trinity River at Lake Livingston lies the Big Thicket National Preserve. Here is one of the first of the world’s scientific biosphere reserves as designated by the United Nations. It is a biological crossroads of North America, with 100,000 acres of scientifically significant forest in 12 units over seven counties. There are opportunities for wildlife viewing, walking, backpacking, birding, horseback riding, canoeing, fishing, nature observation and historical interpretation. Big Thicket is home to more than 85 tree species, nearly 1,000 flowering plant species, 26 ferns, 20 orchids, and four of North America’s five types of insect-eating plants. Located on the western edge of the Mississippi flyway, bird watching is a popular activity as nearly 300 species have been sighted. Various lengths of hiking trails, books, maps are available. For Ranger-led tours, by appointment, call 409951-6725 at the Big Thicket National Preserve Visitor Center, located 8 miles north

of Kountze on US 69. Open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closing only on Christmas and New Year’s Day. The Visitor Center has a large lobby-book sales area, exhibit room, “Discovery Room,” theater, public restrooms, and porch. Highway signs identify the “Big Thicket National Preserve Parkway” from Beaumont to Lufkin on U.S. 69. For more info contact www.nps.gov.bith/ and Hardin County Tourist Bureau, (800) 835-0343, or Beaumont Convention & Visitors Bureau, (800) 392-4401.

Antiques

ATLANTA – Shop in Historical Downtown Atlanta- Antiques, gifts, restaurants, Old Fashion Soda Fountain, book stores and boutiques. Come shop, visit or stay a lifetime. 903-796-3296 DENISON – Destination Denison for Best in Antique Shopping - Numerous shops w/over 100,000 sq. ft. of treasures. Blue Moon Antique Mall, 410 W. Main, 903-463-7505. Gilley’s Antiques, 423 Main, 903-744-3601. Katy Antique Station, 104 E. Main, 903-465-7352. Riffel’s Books & Antiques, 327 W. Main, 903-465-7703. Willow Wild Antiques, 500 W. Main, 903-463-1230. Henderson – National Register Historic District •The Mustard Seed 128 E. Main •Margaret & Ophelia’s 106 N. Marshall •Mays-Harris and Eklectia 102 N. Marshall • Plan It Home 100 S. Marshall •The Curious Wren 123 S. Main LONGVIEW - Greggton Antique Mall Military, sports, Western, fishing & railroad items. American, English, European furniture. Bicycles, glass, toys, collectibles. 3420W. Marshall (US80). 903-759-9491.www.greggtonantiquemall.com

Arts & Artists

BONHAM - Creative Arts Center -Showcases Artists, jewelry, photography, textiles, pottery and performing arts. Tues.-Fri. 10-5p, Sat. 9a-1p. 200 W. 5th. 903-640-2196. creativeartscenter.us/ DENISON – Denison Arts Council – Numerous art galleries & studios representing over 100 artists, many nationally and internationally recognized. Denison Arts Council. 903-465-1551. www. smalltownbigart.com GILMER – The Rose Gallery – 208 Henderson, 75644, 903-843-2468. MESQUITE - Mesquite Arts Center - Stateof-the-art concert hall, Black Box Theatre, art galleries, and permanent exhibits. Open 8am-5pm, Mon.Fri. and during performances. 972-216-8122. www.mesquiteartscenter.org Orange – Stark Museum of Art - in downtown Orange, houses one of the nation’s most significant collections of American Western art. See tapestries, rare books, cut glass collections, paintings, illustrations, pottery, artifacts, sculptures and more. Tour admission is free to the public and children accompanied by an adult are welcome. 409.886.ARTS (2787) www.starkmuseum.org PARIS - Plaza Art Gallery - Showcasing paintings, stained glass, sculpture and other fine art from local and guest artists. Open Mon-Sat 10 am-4 pm Admission is free. 903-737-9699. www.theplazagallery.com

Attractions

ANGLETON - Austin Town - Held first weekend in November, a re-enactment of an 1830’s town in colonial Texas. 979-864-1208 www.bcfa.org The Brazoria County Fair and Rodeo - Held in October. Brazoria County Fair kids…Learning Today…Leading Tomorrow! www.bcfa.org The Freedom Festival - July Celebration featuring live music, great food, and a spectacular fireworks show to end the evening. 979-849-4364 x 2111 www.angleton.tx.us Manna Fields Farm - a family owned educational farm that transforms into Fearshire Farms for October. 979849-COWS www.mannafieldsfarm.com Market Days - A two-day event featuring a diverse group of vendors from across the state of Texas. Held at the Brazoria County Fairgrounds in Spring and Fall. 979849-4364 x2111 www.angleton.tx.us MSR Houston - The premier road racing facility in the State of Texas. 281-369-0677 www.msrhouston.com Stephen F Austin Statue - This 70 foot statue honors the Father of Texas, and promotes the appreciation and recognition of the importance of Brazoria County’s history in both Texas and the United States. www.sfa500.org ATHENS – Athens Department of Tourism - Visit us at the Athens Partnership Center to pick up information on things to do and see, places to eat, shopping opportunities and places to stay in Athens. Your outdoor adventure awaits you in Athens. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon-Fri. 201 W. Corsicana, Ste. 2. 888-294-2847 www.AthensTX.org BAYTOWN - Baytown Nature Center – This 450acre peninsula offers educational and recreational opportunities to include fishing piers, wildlife overlooks, birding blinds, a butterfly garden, and a children’s nature discovery area. 6213 Bayway Drive. 281-424-9198 www.baytown.org •Pirates Bay Water Park - Pirates Bay features attractions for everyone! Large active and colorful Pirate themed water play center complete with a large array of spray nozzles, tot slides, and water guns, a 671 foot long lazy river and two large slide towers. 5300 East Road Baytown, Tx 77520 281-422-1150 www.baytown.org/piratesbay BONHAM - Fort Inglish-Blockhouse and stockade -Prairie houses, General Store, School/Church, Blacksmith shop. Hands-on children experiences. Free. Tues –Fri. 10-12a &1-3p. Groups. Hwy. 56 & Chinner. Groups. 903-583-5558 BUDA - Historic Downtown Buda - Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, visitors can stroll downtown and take a look at buildings from the late 1800’s including the Carrington House, 1898 Mercantile Store, and the bank building that once, was robbed by a female bandit. Enjoy dining and shopping in antique and specialty shops. Groups welcome. www.discoverbuda.com

Texas Heritage Trail Hosts CLUTE-The Center for the Arts and Sciences - is home to the Museum of Natural Science, Art League, Symphony Orchestra, Center Stages and the Brazosport Planetarium. Located at 400 College Blvd. Clute, TX 77531. Call 877-265-7661 or visit www.bcfas.org for the hours of operations. CONROE - 7 Acre Woods - Bring the family to play in a 7 1/2 acre old-fashioned Family Entertainment Park! Visit the petting zoo, mini golf course, western play town, play fort, huge playground, gigantic sandbox, zip line, horseshoes, hay rides and much more. 936-890-2326 www.7acrewood.org DENISON – Eisenhower Birthplace State Historic Site–The 1880s two-story frame house of the 34th U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower. 903-465-8908 Ennis - Ennis Bluebonnet Trails - held annually in April in Ennis, features over 40 miles of mapped bluebonnet driving trails. Free bluebonnet trail maps are available at the Ennis Visitor Center in April, and at the Bluebonnet Trails Festival, held the 3rd weekend of April. Great fun for the whole family! 972-878-4748 www.visitennis.org •Autumn Days - in Ennis Fall Festival is an annual festival that features arts/crafts, food, live music, children’s activities and much more. This event is held annually the 3rd Saturday in October in Ennis’ downtown Historic District. GRAND SALINE - Grand Saline Salt Palace Museum & Visitor Center- US80(100 W. Garland), Tue.Sat. 8:30A-5P, 903-962-5631, saltpalace@grandsaline.com, www.saltpalacemuseum.org East Texas Gators & Wildlife Park – 9515 FM 1255 (between I20 & US Hwy.110) beautiful park setting with real live Alligators from hatchlings to over 12 feet, other wildlife and fish, picnic pavilions. “The Grill” with cooked to order food, open daily from 10:00 a.m. to dark: 903-962-5630; easttexasgators@gmail.com; visit the website at www.easttexasgators.com Nutty’s Old Fashioned Peanut Butter – 233 N. Main @ US80, 1-877-NUTTYSPB, www.nuttyspeanutbutter.com 12 flavors milled fresh in our store, Voted Best PB by EVERYDAY with Rachael Ray Magazine, Also serving fudge & Bluebell ice ream. GREENVILLE - Historic Downtown - Historic landmark buildings in downtown Greenville now house wineries, restaurants, antique malls, ladies apparel shops and other boutiques and specialty stores. Enjoy live music, relax in a public garden, take in a play in our 1930s Art Deco Municipal Auditorium or stroll our Historic Downtown Walking Tour. You’ll find history on every corner in Downtown Greenville! 903-455-1510 www.greenville-texas.com HENDERSON – National Registered Historic District – Beautifully restored buildings in the downtown area which features upscale shopping, antiques and eateries. Henderson is a Texas and National Main Street City. 866-650-5529. www.visithendersontx.com The Henderson Civic Theater - offers the finest in community theatre with a wide variety of plays and musicals to suit all taste.... 122 E. Main St. 903-657296 www.hendersoncivictheater.com Monte Verdi Plantation – Meaning “Green Mountain”, Monte Verdi Plantation is located high on a hill in Rusk County Texas. It is said that from the upper gallery a person can see four different counties. 903-863-2633. www.monteverdiplantation.com

HILLSBORO - Hill County Courthouse - Built in 1890 and restored after a devastating fire New Year’s Day 1993. Restoration took over six years and $9 million dollars to complete. Courthouse is open for tours. 254-582-2481. chamber@hillsborochamber.org. JACKSONVILLE – Love’s Lookout Visitor Center –One of East Texas’ most breathtaking views. Information center and rest stop. 903-586-4868. www. jacksonvilletexas.com Mud Creek Off Road Park – Electrical/WaterRV hookups, indoor restrooms, tent camping, indoor showers, event barn, 4,000 acres, ATV/camping park. 903-586-6972. mudcreekoffroadpark.com Texas State Railroad – Historic train rides and camping grounds throughscenic piney woods of East Texas. 1-888-987-2461. www.TexasStateRR.com MESQUITE - The World Famous Mesquite ProRodeo - exciting, professional ro¬deo action, every Friday and Saturday evening from June through August. Enjoy the thrill of authentic, heart-stopping fun in airconditioned comfort, along with cowboy auto¬graphs, pony rides, a petting zoo and free face-painting for children. 1818 Rodeo Drive Mesquite, Texas 75149 972-285-8777 www.MesquiteRodeo.com Orange – Frances Ann Lutcher Theater for the Performing Arts - Enjoy the largest performing arts series from Houston, Texas, to Jacksonville, Florida, with annual attendance at approximately 30,000 adults and children in a gorgeous 1,450-seat facility. It serves as a showplace for the finest performances, ranging from traveling Broadway plays to musical groups to one-man acts. 409-886-5535 www.lutcher.org PARIS - Sam Bell Maxey House State Historic Site - This 1868 2-story frame residence was a proper home for the former Confederate general who later served as US Senator. Guided tours daily 9 am-4 pm. 903-785-5716. www.paristexas.com. Eiffel Tower - This famous Paris landmark stands 65’ tall and has been Texanized with a red cowboy hat on top! Located next to the Love Civic Center on S. Collegiate Drive. 903-784-2501. www.paristexas.com Santa Fe Frisco Depot - Beautiful architecture is a fine example of stations found along the Frisco Railroad Line. The Depot houses a transportation museum with a railroad diorama. 903-784-6964. Historical Downtown Paris - Home to many historical buildings with great antiques and boutiques. The stunning Culbertson Fountain serves as the centerpiece to the Downtown Square. 903-784-2501 SHERMAN - Kelly Square - A multi-level experience in historically restored building. Features boutiques, antiques, and two restaurants. 115 South Tra-

vis Street, 903-868-1771, kellysquaresherman.com •Sherman Symphony Orchestra & Community Series – Performances Sept.-May; Only orchestra between Dallas and Oklahoma City. Series features internationally known groups. 903-813-2251, communityseries.com, shermansymphony.com

CANTON – First Monday Trade Days – Full hookups, 903-567-6556. www.visitcantontx.com GLADEWATER- Shallow Creek RV Resort Park –63 Site RV Park, 100% concrete roads and sites, FreeWI-FI, Clean restrooms with showers, 30/50 amphookups. 1.4 Mi. N. I-20 on Hwy. 135. 903-9844513.www.shallowcreek.com HENDERSON –Martin Lake Creek State Park Cabins, RV’s, tents. 903-836-4616. www.tpwd.state. tx.us/park/martincr/martincr Durango’s Canyon (Good Sam Club) - 1039 FM 1798 W. Mt. Enterprise, Texas 75681. 877-863-8726. www.durangoscanyon.com Henderson RV Park - 6800 Hwy 79 S. Henderson, Texas 75654. 903-399-9559 H&H RV Park - 3755 Hwy 79 S. Henderson, Texas 75654. 903-836-2006 LONE STAR – Scenic View Motel-Marina & RV Park – Best kept secret in East Texas! Located on Ellison Creek Reservoir. Small & personal, among tall pine trees. 13 RV sites, big rig friendly, FHU’s 20/30/50, 1 pull thru, rustic cabin with great view. Pier & floating docks. Swim, fish or watch the sunset & relax. Big rig friendly. 6 kitchenettes w/cable. Laundry, bait & tackle store, boat ramp. Full time on-site owners. Free WiFi. Come stay with us & enjoy the sunsets. Located between Mt. Pleasant & Longview on Hwy 259. Email: Jksly@aol.com 108 South Shore Drive. 903-656-2272. www.scenicviewmarina.com

East Texas Vacatio

Bed & Breakfast

KOUNTZE - Kirby-Hill House Bed & Breakfast409-246-8000 •Hickory Hill Bed & Breakfast & Wedding Chapel- 409-385-0558 MARSHALL – Roseville Bed & Breakfast -10 acres. Flowers & porches. 4 guest rooms. Receptions. Gourmet breakfast. 4 mi. West of town on US80. 903935-5000 centerpiece to the Downtown Square. 903-784-2501 SOUR LAKE/HARDIN CO.–TheTeacherage – Bed & Bath. Nice 3BR, full kitchen. Weddings, receptions, meetings, parties, reunions. 409-287-2700. WINNSBORO – Thee Hubbell House Bed and Breakfast - 307 West Elm Street. A southern plantation estate located 75 miles east of Dallas amidst the beauty of the Pineywoods of Northeast Texas. For reservations call (800) 227-0639. www.theehubbellhouse.com

Cabins & Cottages

KOUNTZE - Cabins in the Thicket- 409-2462655 •Camping & RV Indian Springs Campground & RV- 409-246-2508

Camping & RV

ATLANTA–Atlanta State Park - on beautiful Lake Wright Patman, 15 mi. N. of Atlanta on US59, facilities, fishing, hunting, water sports, camping, picnic & hiking trails. 903-796-6476.

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LONGVIEW – Hayes RV – Full line of travel trailers, toy haulers, 5th wheels and motorhomes, award winning service department, largest parts and accessory store in East Texas, Finance and Insurance, 64 years serving East Texas. 5009 Judson Road, Longview, TX 75605, 903-663-3488, LONE STARwww.hayesrv.com. – Scenic View Motel-Marina & 800-945-4239,

LISTINGS UNDER CAMPING & R

RV Pa in East Texas! Located on Ellison Creek Reservoi Civic Convention among tall pine&trees. Pier & floating docks. Swim, fi ATHENS – Athens & Cain set & relax. 8 sites; Cain FHU’sCenter 20/30/50. Big rigPark friendly. 6 - Offering more than 15,000 square feet of meeting Laundry, bait & tackle store, boat ramp. Full time on-s space, the Cain Center sits nestled in the heart of the Come stay withCain us &park, enjoy the sunsets. Located bet beautiful, 85-acre surrounded by beautiLongview HwyThere 259. Email: Jksly@aol.com ful oaks andon pines. are tennis courts, fishing108 So 656-2272. www.scenicviewmarina.com ponds and a walking/jogging trail. The perfect place

for holding business meetings, seminars, banquets, parties, family reunions, company picnics, weddings and more. Civic Center hours: 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Mon-Fri, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat, 1-6 p.m. Sun. 915 S. Palestine. LONE STAR – Scenic View Motel-Marina & RV Pa 903-677-2001 www.athenscaincenter.com in East Texas! Located Ellison Creek- for Reservoi ATLANTA – Richey Centeron –4,000 sf facility among tall pine trees. Pier Atlanta & floating docks. meetings/receptions/reunions. Sports Com-Swim, fi plex. Atlanta set & relax. 8 sites; FHU’s 20/30/50. Big rig friendly. 6

LISTINGS UNDER HOTELS & MO

Laundry, bait & tackle store, boat ramp. Full time on-s Come stay with us & enjoy the sunsets. Located bet Longview on Hwy 259. Email: Jksly@aol.com 108 So

Texas Heritage Trail Hosts CANTON – CANTON – Canton Civic Center – 34,000 SF facility avail. to host rallies, banquets, events. 325 camper/RV hookups. First Mon. Trade Days site. 800 Flea Mrkt. Rd., P.O. Box 665, 75103. 903-567-6556. www.FirstMondayCanton.com DeSoto - DeSoto Civic Center - Meeting and banquet facilities to accommodate groups as small as 10 or as large as 300 (210 banquet style). Full kitchen. Admin hours: Mon – Thurs 8am-7pm; Fri 8am-6pm, Sat 8am-10am. 972-230-9650 www.ci.desoto.tx.us •DeSoto Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center - 2010 N. Hampton Road, Suite 200. Mon-Fri 8am – 5pm 972-224-3565 www.visitdesototexas.com EDGEWOOD–Edgewood Civic Center – Opened June 2008. For more information, contact City of Edgewood, 903-896-4448. GILMER – Gilmer Civic Center – Fits any occasion: banquets, weddings, mtgs., parties. 1925 N. Wood/ US 271 N., P.O. Box 760, 75644. 903-797-8888; 903-843-2552. www.gilmer-tx.com HENDERSON - Henderson Civic Center - This facility opened in February of 2010. The center is located overlooking scenic Lake Forest Park on Highway 64 West. The 20,000 square foot state of the art facility is available for a variety of events including: Conferences, meetings, parties, trade shows, weddings and reunions. 866-650-5529 www.visithendersontx.com HILLSBORO - HILLSBORO - MKT (Katy) Depot Off the historic courthouse square in downtown Hillsboro . Filled with railroad artifacts and railroad pictures. Location of the Hillsboro Visitor Center and Chamber of Commerce/Convention and Visitors Bureau. 254582-2481. www.chamber@hillsborochamber.org MESQUITE - Mesquite Convention Center & Exhibit Hall - 56,000 sf. of flexible meeting space, includes 18,000 sf. ballroom space, 3,000 st. breakouts, 35,000 sf. exhibit space. Full-service catering. 972-204-4925. www.realtexasflavor.com

Entertainment

ATHENS – Henderson County Performing Arts Center - The theater produces six main stage shows and four black box shows each season and brings in numerous musical, dance and theatre shows from other organizations. Contact the performing arts center for performance times and ticket information. 400 Gibson Road. 903-675-3908 www.hcpac.org CONROE - Conroe Aquatic Center - The Aquatic Center includes a zero depth, seasonal leisure pool featuring a graduated beach entry, an interactive play structure, mini slides, a water curtain, and giant tipping bucket spilling 400 gallons of water periodically. Adult swimmers can enjoy two 22-foot slides enclosed for a speedy drop into a 4-foot pool. 936-522-3930 www.cityofconroe.org CORSICANA - Warehouse Living Arts Center – Celebrating 40th year of excellence in entertainment. Showcasing musicals, comedies, visual arts, children’s theatre, & classes. 119 W. 6th Ave. 903-872-5421 wlac2007@sbcglobal.net www.warehouselivingartscenter.com

DeSoto - Corner Theater - Home for local professional and community theater companies. Available for use by other arts organizations. Seats 160. 972-989-7530 www.ci.desoto.tx.us •Metroplex BMX- #1 BMX Racetrack in Texas. Offers year-round racing in all ABA categories. 500 E. Centre Park Blvd www.metroplexbmx.org GREENVILLE - Greenville - Live Music - The Greenville Municipal Auditorium, two downtown wineries and the Stonewall Music Hall feature live music and other entertainment. From Country to Symphony, and light jazz to blues, we’re playing your tune in Greenville. 903-455-1510 www.greenvillechamber.com LINDEN – Music City Texas - Live performances by national & regional artists. Rest. American Legion Hall. Great BBQ. 903-756-9934 LONGVIEW – Arts View Children’s Theatre Changing lives through education, outreach and the performing arts. Productions, workshops, summer camps, classes and more. 313 West Tyler Street. 903-236-7535 www.ArtsViewChildrensTheatre.com Orange – Frances Ann Lutcher Theater for the Performing Arts - Enjoy the largest performing arts series from Houston, Texas, to Jacksonville, Florida, with annual attendance at approximately 30,000 adults and children in a gorgeous 1,450-seat facility. It serves as a showplace for the finest performances, ranging from traveling Broadway plays to musical groups to one-man acts. 409-886-5535 www.lutcher.org PARIS - Paris Community Theatre - Offering 4 live performance productions each year. Drama, comedy and mystery plays. Performances are offered two weekends each quarter. 903-784-0259. www.paristheatreonline.com

Festivals

CLUTE- The Great Texas Mosquito Festival - The last Thursday, Friday and Saturday of July. Clute Municipal Park. 100 Parkview Drive, Clute, Texas 77531. 1-800-371-2971. Email buzz@ mosquitofestival.com. Three fun filled days of live entertainment, contests, carnival, petting zoo, arts/ crafts booths, food vendors and BBQ Cook-off. DENISON – Downtown Denison - Arts Tour & Downtown loft tour-last Sat. in March. Art & Wine Renaissnace - Last Sat. in April. 4th of July Fireworks Celebration- July 4th.Main St. Fall Festival1stSat. in Oct. 903-465-1551, Denison Main Street, 903-464-4452. Ennis - National Polka Festival - held annually each Memorial Day weekend in Ennis, celebrates Ennis’ Czech heritage and features over 14 live polka bands, horseshoe tournament, giant parade, authentic Czech cuisine, arts and crafts, polkafest run, and much more! Event is held in downtown Ennis and at three air conditioned auditoriums. 972-878-4748 www.nationalpolkafestival.com GILMER/Upshur County – East Texas Yamboree. Founded 1935 to celebrate importance of yams to county–1 of oldest fest. in TX. Nationally famous. 903-843-2413. www.yamboree.com

GRAND SALINE – 38th Annual Salt Festival – 1st. week in June 2012, www.saltfest.net. Phone 903-962-5631; 903-288-8462 Bloomin Festival – April 7, 2012 903-962-4257 Peanut Butter Festival – November 10, 2012. HENDERSON – 24th Heritage Syrup Fest. – Nov. 10, 2012. Old time syrup making/folk art. Depot grounds. Arts/crafts, music entertainment downtown. 866-650-5529. www.visithendersontx.com 17th Antique Tractor Show – April 20-21st located at the Rusk County Expo Hwy 13W. 903-889-2671 www.visithendersontx.com Christmas Home Tour - Nov 30-Dec 1st. Experience the sights and sounds of an Old-fashioned Christmas celebration, in Historic Henderson, Texas. 903-657-5528. www. visithendersontx.com NACOGDOCHES – 23rd Annual Texas Blueberry Fest.– June 9, 2012. The only state-sanctioned blueberry festival in Texas. Enjoy blueberry treats, familyfriendly activities and free shuttles to pick-your-own blueberries at nearby farms. 888-OLDEST-TOWN or www.TexasBlueberryFestival.com. •Azalea Trail.– March 10 - April 7, 2012. Enjoy more than 25 miles of driving trails through beautiful residential neighborhoods in historic Nacogdoches. As the largest azalea garden in Texas, the Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden boasts one of the most diverse azalea collections in the United States with more than 7,000 azaleas. It’s the centerpiece of the annual Nacogdoches Azalea Trail. 888-OLDEST-TOWN or www. NacogdochesAzaleas.com •Freedom Fest - July 4, 2012. Old-fashioned, community-wide Independence Day celebration on July 4 in downtown Nacogdoches. Families are invited to enjoy delicious festival food, children’s activities and live music. The evening culminates in a dazzling fireworks display sponsored by the Nacogdoches Jaycees. 888-OLDEST-TOWN or www.VisitNacogdoches.org •Nine Flags Fest - November 17-December 10, 2012. One of the premier holiday celebrations in the state; recognized by the Texas Legislature for its community education and historic restoration efforts. Includes East Texas’ largest lighted Christmas parade, Wassail Fest, certified 5K run, fireworks and Tour of Historic Homes. 888OLDEST-TOWN or www.NineFlagsFestival.com TYLER- Rose Festival - Since its beginning in 1933, the Texas Rose Festival has represented the spirit that brings Tyler together as a community. Rich in heritage and tradition, the Festival offers enchanting ceremonial events such as the Queen’s Coronation, the Rose Show, the Queen’s Tea and Rose Parade all amidst a backdrop of brilliant roses as vibrant and colorful as the community they represent. 1-800-235-5712. www.VisitTyler.com

Gardens

ATHENS - East Texas Arboretum – The East Texas Arboretum sits on more than 100 acres of Native Texas land and includes formal gardens, historic buildings and a wooded nature area with more than 2 miles of hiking trails. Admission $2 per person, over age 12. Open 7 days a week, closed for special events. 1601 Patterson Road. 903-675-5630 www.eastexasarboretum.org

GLADEWATER - Mrs Lee’s Daffodil Gardens Millions of golden daffodils scattered over approximitley 28 acres begin to bloom February to March. Including lakes and pioneer log cabin. Donations welcome. 903-845-5780 www.DaffodilGarden.com GREENVILLE - Hunt County Heritage Garden - The Hunt County Heritage Garden is both beautiful and educational. A project of the Hunt County Master Gardeners, it showcases plants that do well in North Texas and demonstrates proper soil preparation, drip irrigation, mulching and plant placement. Adjacent to the Farmer’s Market downtown. 2217 Washington Street. 904-455-9885 www.greenville-chamber.org/attract.htmlThe SPOT (Smart Park of Texas) at the corner of Lee and Wesley Streets in downtown Greenville is a demonstration garden highlighting the elements of Smart Growth. Water wise gardening is used to nurture native plants and other plants well adapted to Texas. A sign describes recycling, compact building designs, mulitple modes of transportation and other elements of Smart Growth. 903-455-1510 http://smartparks.org NACOGDOCHES –SFA Mast Arboretum–1st at a univ. in Texas, 1985. On-campus garden spills over 19 acres, hosts over 7,500 different plants and 20 theme gardens, including the Jim and Beth Kingham Children’s Garden, azalea garden, lies on portion of Lanana Creek Trail. Accessible. 936-468-1832 or http:// arboretum.sfasu.edu Lanana Creek Trail – Orig. Indian footpath, trail weaves thru thickets paw-paw, dogwood, scarletblooming buckeye. Trail begins El Camino Real Park (Liberty Hall, E. Main St. 888OLD-EST-TOWN (653-3788). www.VisitNacogdoches.org Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden –Texas’ largest azalea garden features more than 6,500 azaleas spread over 8 forestedacres. Camellias, hydrangeas, magnolias and Japanese Maples are also highlighted inthe garden’s eclectic beds. South of SFA Johnson Coliseum on University Drive.Accessible. 936-468-1832 or http://azalea.sfasu.edu Orange – Shangri La Botanical Gardens & Nature Center - Nestled within 252 acres in the heart of Orange, visit a place with a mission to improve and enrich the quality of life in Southeast Texas. See more than 300 plant species, enjoy boat excursions to educational outposts, state-of-the-art bird blind, a bat house and up-close encounters with nature. 409-670-9113 www.shangrilagardens.org

Genealogical

ATLANTA – Atlanta Public Library– Cass County Family History Center. 101 W. Hiram St., 75551. 903-796-2112. www.atlantalib.com/ GREENVILLE - Northeast Texas Genealogy Center - One of the finest collections of genealogy research materials and Texas history in the area can be found at the W.Walworth Harrison Public Library in Greenville. Local, State of Texas and Southern States are featured most prominently. There are more than 6,000 volumes, plus microfilm, photography and online sources. # 1 Lou Finney Lane. 903-457-2992 www.youseemore.com/harrison KOUNTZE - Hardin County Genealogical Library - Library and Research Center - Open Tues. - Wed. 9am-4pm, Sat 9am-1pm. 409-767-0423. www.hardincotxgenealogy@yahoo.com

Texas Heritage Trail Hosts Golf

ATLANTA – Indian Hills Country Club – TX77. 2 mi. N.offers 9 hole course, club access and pro shop. 903-796-4146.

MESQUITE - City of Mesquite Disc Golf Courses - 18 hole course at Paschall Park, 9hole courses at DeBusk and Porter parks. For all Skill levels. Free. 972-216-6260. www.cityofmesquite.com/pard/discgolf.php

Guest Ranch

CONROE - Cavallo Creek Farm - Enjoy riding in a

splendid park-like setting. Spanning over 70 acres, Cavallo Creek Farm, a splendid hunter/jumper facility, offers riding lessons and guided rides along the creek on Cavallo Creek horses. Extend your ride to a full day and explore the nearby 1,733 acre Jones State Forest. 936-273-1333 www.cavallocreek.com

Hotels & Motels

ATLANTA – Best Western Piney Woods 903-796-8500 •Butler Inn 903-796-8235 •Express Inn - 903-796-7595 HENDERSON - Baymont Inn & Suites 410 Hwy 79 S. 903-657-7900 or 877-229-6668 Best Western Inn of Henderson - 1500 259 S. 903-657-9561 or 800-528-1234 Comfort Inn - 905 Hwy 79 N. 903657-8789 or 877-655-8789 Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites - 300 Kilgore Dr. 903-657-5250 or 800-HOLIDAY Woodlawn Hills Motel - 1204 Hwy 79 N. 903-657-2511 or 800-833-0256 JEFFERSON – Inn of Jefferson– Complementary full hot breakfast, outdoor pool, micro/fridge in king rooms, internet access-lobby. 400 S. Walcott, Jefferson, 75657, 903-665-3983. www.InnOfJefferson.com KOUNTZE - Super 8 - 409-246-8680. LONE STAR – Scenic View Motel-Marina & RV Park – Best kept secret in East Texas! Located on Ellison Creek Reservoir. Small & personal, among tall pine trees. 13 RV sites, big rig friendly, FHU’s 20/30/50, 1 pull thru, rustic cabin with great view. Pier & floating docks. Swim, fish or watch the sunset & relax. . Big rig friendly. 6 kitchenettes w/cable. Laundry, bait & tackle store, boat ramp. Full time on-site owners. Free WiFi. Come stay with us & enjoy the sunsets. Located between Mt. Pleasant & Longview on Hwy 259. Email: Jksly@aol.com 108 South Shore Drive. 903-656-2272. www.scenicviewmarina.com

LONGVIEW – Homewood Suites by Hilton – 205 N. Spur 63. 903-234-0214. Toll Free: 1-800-CallHome. www.Longview.homewoodsuites.com SHERMAN - Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites – South– 900S. Access Rd, 75602. 903-247-3000. www.hiexpress.com/longviewtx. Complimentary Hot Express Breakfast Bar and High-Speed Internet. Exercise Facility, Outdoor Pool, Indoor Corridor. STAY SMART

Lakes & Marinas

ATHENS – Lake Athens - Approximately 5 miles east of Athens, 1,799-acre Lake Athens offers a variety of water sport activities for outdoor enthusiasts. The lake is known for Largemouth bass and there is also sunfish, crappie and white bass. Boat ramp, marina, camping, restaurant, picnic area and restrooms. Located on FM 2495. 903-677-7490 www.AthensTX.org ATLANTA – Cass County Park– Lake Wright Patman.CR3558, 903-796-9254. BONHAM - Lake Fannin- 903-583-5978. www.lakefannin.org/ GILMER – Gilmer Lake – Open for fishing and swimming only. Picnic area. Walking trails at lake. 3 miles west of FM 852 in Gilmer. 903-843-2552. Henderson - Martin Creek Lake State Park cabins, RV and tent spaces 903 – 836-4336 www. tpwd.state.tx.us/park/martincr/martincr.htm JACKSONVILLE – Jacksonville Lake –1,320 acres, camping huts, fishing, public consession area. South Jacksonville off US Hwy 69. 903-586-5977. www.jacksonville-texas.com LONE STAR – Scenic View Motel-Marina & RV Park – Best kept secret in East Texas! Located on Ellison Creek Reservoir. Small & personal, among tall pine trees. 13 RV sites, big rig friendly, FHU’s 20/30/50, 1 pull thru, rustic cabin with great view. Pier & floating docks. Swim, fish or watch the sunset & relax. . Big rig friendly. 6 kitchenettes w/cable. Laundry, bait & tackle store, boat ramp. Full time on-site owners. Free WiFi. Come stay with us & enjoy the sunsets. Located between Mt. Pleasant & Longview on Hwy 259. Email: Jksly@aol.com 108 South Shore Drive. 903-656-2272. www.scenicviewmarina.com

East Texas Vacation Guide 2010 �� Print As Is �� Re-run With Changes �� New Ad

Renovated in late 2001. 65 rooms. FREE, full, hot breakfast 65 rooms. FREE, full, hot breakfast, served daily. Antique shops and cultural heritage nearby. antique shops and cultural heritage nearby.

400 South Walcott(US HWY 59) Jefferson, TX 75657 903-665-3983 • Fax 903-665-3536 www.InnofJefferson.com

Listings under HOTELS & MOTELS

NACOGDOCHES – Lake Nacogdoches – Located on Loco Bayou, 10 miles west of Nacogdoches off FM 225, this 2,200 acre lake offers a great place to catch large mouth bass, crappie and sunfish. Access the lake from FM 225 West. 888-OLDEST-TOWN or www.visitnacogdoches.org PARIS - Pat Mayse Lake - This 6,000 acre lake provides numerous options for outdoor fun. Fishing, hunting, camping, boating and swimming are among the many family activities this site offers. 903-732-3020. SHERMAN - Lake Texoma -90,000 acres of water draws over 10,000,000 visitors annually. All types of water sports, camping, hunting and finest striper, crappie, and black bass fishing in the country.

Museums

BONHAM - Sam Rayburn Library/Museum - A showcase for the life and work of the longest serving Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives. Free. Mon-Fri 9a-5p. Groups. 893W. Highway 56, 75418. 903-583-2455. cah.utexas.edu/museums/rayburn. pht Sam Rayburn House- depicts the simple life of a man who served over 17 years as Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives. Admission charged. Tues.- Fri. 8a-4:30p Sat. 9a-4:30p. Groups. 893, W Highway. 56 . 903-583-5558 visitsamrayburnhouse. com Fannin County Historical Museum- Former Texas & Pacific Railway Depot. Depicts county history from pre-historic thru 1959. Free. Tues-Sat. 12:00-4 p. Groups. 903-583-8042. www.visitbonham.com

CANTON – Plaza Museum – Hist. Plaza Theatre houses 3rd largest bell collection in world. Many exhibits/art on display. 119 N. Buffalo. 903-567-1849. Open Monday-Friday 9-5PM and every Saturday on First Monday Weekend! 119N. Buffalo, 877-4627467. www.visitcantontx.com

GREENVILLE - Audie Murphy/ American Cotton Museum - Exhibits feature Audie Murphy, America’s most decorated soldier of World War II who went on to a career in Hollywood; local baseball great Monty Stratton; and local history including the cotton trade that built Greenville into a regional marketplace. 600 I-30 East. 903-450-4502 www.cottonmuseum.com Northeast Texas Children’s Museum - Located just 17 miles from Greenville in Commerce, the Northeast Texas Children’s Museum provides opportunities for a playful and creative learning experience. The Museum’s hands-on exhibits and planned activities serve to enhance and supplement classroom curriculum. Located in the Watson Center building of Texas A & M University-Commerce on Hwy 50 and Culver Street (Hwy 178) in Commerce. 903-886-6055 www.netxcm.com HUNTSVILLE -HEARTS Veteran Museum of Texas - Educational museum preserving military memorabilia, artifacts and the history of past wars in an effort to honor Americans veterans and educate generations to come. Tues-Sat 10am – 5pm. 936295-5959 www.heartsmuseum.com •Sam Houston Memorial Museum - Preserving the memory and times of General Sam Houston. 936-294-1832. Open Tuesday – Saturday 9:00 am – 4:30 pm Sunday 12 n- 4:30 pm www.huntsvilletexas.com

KOUNTZE - Kirby-Hill House Museum - Victorian mansion built in 1902 by James L. Kirby, brother of lumber baron John Henry Kirby. Wrap around porches, spiral staircase, Murder Mystery Dinner Theater. 409-246-8000. www.kirby-hillhouse.com MESQUITE - Florence Ranch Homestead - Great example of late 19th century rural Texas architecture, with period furnishings. Open Tues. and Fri. noon to 5pm, Wed. 1-4pm. 2nd Sat., 10am-1pm. 972-2166468. www.historicmesquite.org •Opal Lawrence Historical Park - Historic home, barn, and out buildings dating from late 1800’s. Rare painted ceilings, period furnishings. Open 4th Sat., 10am-1pm. 972-216-6468. www.historicmesquite.org ORANGE - The W.H. Stark House - Tour a threestory home that was built in 1894 in downtown Orange by William Henry Stark and wife, Miriam M. Lutcher Stark, prominent philanthropists who occupied the home until 1936. Designed in the Queen Anne architectural style, the house features a distinctive turret, stained glass windows, and ornate woodwork. 409-883-0871 www.whstarkhouse.org SHERMAN - Sherman Jazz Museum – Open Saturdays, 1-5 p.m., in former Mason Lodge built in 1924. Memorabilia features the fantastic collection of the Maynard Ferguson estate. 201 East Lamar, 75090; www.shermanjazzmuseum.com

Museums–Agricultural

DENISON – TV Munson Grape Viticulture & Enology Center– Grapevineyard, museum honoring a Texan decorated by the Gov’t of France for saving that country’s vineyards.

Museums – Arts Museums

CLUTE - The Center for the Arts & Sciences Voted one of Frommer’s Top Ten Museums in Texas. Admission: Free. Hours: Tues. - Sat. 10AM-5 PM, Sunday 2-5PM. Closed Mondays. 400 College Blvd., Clute, TX 77531. 979-265-7831. www.bcfas.org/museum. Orange – Stark Museum of Art - in downtown Orange, houses one of the nation’s most significant collections of American Western art. See tapestries, rare books, cut glass collections, paintings, illustrations, pottery, artifacts, sculptures and more. Tour admission is free to the public and children accompanied by an adult are welcome. 409.886.ARTS (2787) www.starkmuseum.org

Museums – Aviation Museums

GILMER – Flight of Phoenix Aviation Museum, Inc. – 5 rare antique classic aircraft, veteran displays since WWII. Educational field trips. Private parties/ catering. Sun by appt. Steve Dean, Fox Stephens Field. 903-790-7435. www.flightofthephoenix.org Terrell - #1 British Flying Training School Museum - Popular destination for World War II buffs. Features history of British and American pilots trained during World War II. Wed., Fri and Sat 10am-4pm. 119 Silent Wings Blvd. 972-524-4714 www.bftsmuseum.org

Texas Heritage Trail Hosts Museums – Historical

ANGLETON - Brazoria County Historical Museum - Located in the original 1897 Brazoria County Courhouse. Exhibits reflect collections of artifacts that relate the history, culture, and demographic of the County. 100 E Cedar 979-864-1208 www.bchm.org ATHENS - Henderson County Historical Museum - Located in the historic Faulk-Gauntt Building and first built in 1896 as a grocery store, exhibits on the first floor continue to emulate a turn-of-the-century dry goods store while the second floor is a recreation of an early law office, parlor, bedroom, bath, kitchen, and schoolroom. Free. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Fri & Sat. 217 N. Prairieville Street. 903-677-3611 www.AthensTX.org ATLANTA – Atlanta Historical Museum – TX & Pacific RR exhibits, commerce 1850-1950, Caddo culture, Bessie Coleman photos & model plane displays, M-F 1-4 or by appt. 101 N. East St. Downtown. 903-796-1892. www.atlantatexas.org/home/museum. asp 903-796-1892. www.atlantatexas.org CANTON – CANTON – Plaza Museum – Hist. Plaza Theatre houses 3rd largest bell collection in world. Many exhibits/art on display. 119 N. Buffalo. 903-5671849. Open Monday-Friday 9-5PM and every Saturday on First Monday Weekend! 119N. Buffalo, 877-462-7467. www.visitcantontx.com

DENISON – Eisenhower Birthplace State Historic Site–The 1880s two-story frame house of the 34th U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower. 903-465-8908 GILMER – Historic Upshur Museum – Depicting area history from earliest times. 119 Simpson St. 10:30A-4P, Tue.-Sat. 903-843-5483. Humlite5@etex.net JEFFERSON – Jefferson Historical Museum – It’s a short walk through history, a 4-story 1890 structure loaded w/antiques, art & artifacts, spans 4 centuries of history of one of the oldest towns in Texas. 223 W. Austin St. 903-665-2775. www.JeffersonMuseum.com Longview - Gregg County Historical Museum - Celebrating the 100 year anniversary of the Everett Building, home of the Gregg County Historical Museum. Exhibits featuring the past 100 years in Gregg County. Open 10am-4pm Tuesday-Friday, 12pm - 4pm Saturday, closed major holidays. Admission: $2 for adults, $1 for senior citizens and students. 214 North Fredonia Street, 903-753-5840 www.gregghistorical.org NACOGDOCHES – Durst-Taylor Historic House & Gardens– 1830s wood frame house interpreted to 1840 to 1860 time period when Blackman family lived there. Visitor’s ctr., blacksmith shop, smokehouse, historic gardens. 304 North St. Tours Tu.-Sat. 10A4P. 936-560-4443. Old Stone Fort– replica of 1779 stone house, home of Nacogdoches founder, Antonio Gil Y’Barbo. Located on SFA St. Univ. campus. Tours Tu.-Sat. 9A-5P, Sun. 1-5P. 936-468-2408. Old University Building– 1845, only orig. bldg. of a university chartered during the Republic of Texas still standing. Tours Tu.-Fri.1-4P, Sat. 10A-4P, Sun. 1-4P. 936-569-7292. Sterne-Hoya House –211 S. Lanana St.Built by prominent leader of TX Revolution 1830. Sam Houston baptized here. ToursTu.-Sat., 10A-4P. 936-560-5426.

NEW LONDON – London Museum – Covers 1937 London School Explosion disasterwhich killed over 300 students & teachers. A 32-ft cenotaph containing the names of victimsis in the center of Hwy. 42, 11 mi. S. Kilgore. Mus. 9-4 (M-F); 10-3 (Sat). Tearoom 11-2 (M-F). Guided Tours avail. Miles Toler. P.O. Box 477, New London, 75682. 903-895-4602. FAX903895-4602. londonmuseum@embarqmail.com www.newlondonschool.org PARIS - Lamar County Historical Museum Houses many artifacts from Paris and Lamar County, including a military room, Buckner Children’s Home, and the Paris Fire of 1916. Open Fri and Sat 10 am4pm, free. 903-783-0064 www.lchsparistx.org PLANO - Southfork Ranch - 3700 Hogge Road, also known as Murphy Road Parker, Texas 75002 Known as the “world’s most famous ranch”, Southfork Ranch has attracted millions of visitors ever since it became the homestead of the fictional Ewing clan from the hit TV show, “Dallas”. Although most visitors are aware that J.R., Bobby, nor Miss Ellie ever actually lived at the ranch, they are drawn to its sprawling acres in hopes of experiencing a bit of television history and a lot of Texas hospitality. 972-442-7800. www.southfork.com SHERMAN - Red River Historical Museum - Open Tues.-Sat., 10 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.; Closed Sunday-Monday. Tour time: 45 min. Permanent, quarterly and special exhibits. 301 South Walnut, 75090; 903-893-7623

Museums – Heritage

CARTHAGE –Panola County Heritage Museum– downtown, South side of square featur-ing history of area. CONROE - Heritage Museum -Housed in the 1924 Grogan-Cochran home, the Heritage Museum features historical exhibits on the county’s development as a major oil and lumber center. Children, adults and tour groups enjoy learning about Dr. Charles B. Stewart and his original design for the State of Texas flag. Admission $1.00/adults, $.50/ children. 936-539-6873 www.heritagemuseum.us EDGEWOOD– Heritage Park Museum – Syrupmill, cabins, blacksmith, barbershops, schoolhouse, tools, pioneer items. 903-896-1940. Ennis - Ennis Railroad - The Ennis Railroad and Cultural Heritage Museum, located at 105 NE Main St. in Ennis, includes a collection of train memorabilia, historic photo displays, spectacular exhibits of Ennis’ heritage, a short film on the city’s history and much more! 972-875-1901 www.visitennis.org HENDERSON - Depot Museum – Depot Museum A stop in Henderson at the Depot Museum is a must on your visit to East Texas. Clusterd on 5 acres this complex showcases 12 restored structures including the newly restored cotton gin and the famous Arnold Outhouse. The Children’s Discovery Center is located inside the train depot. Hours 9-5pm MonFri & Sat 9-1:00pm. Closed all state and federal holidays. 903-657-4303. www.depotmuseum.com HILLSBORO - Texas Heritage Museum - Features Civil War, World War II, Audie Murphy and Vietnam exhibits. Weapons Gallery. State-of-the-art theatre. Houses the Confederate Research Center,

established in 1963. Mon – Thurs 8:30am – 4:30pm. Fri 8:30am -4:00pm. 254-582-2555. www.hillcollege.edu/museum/ NACOGDOCHES – Millard’s Crossing Historic Village – 6020 North St.Reconstructed hist. village, log cabin to Victorian home, early 1800’s. Excellent guided tours 7 days/week. Adm. 936-564-6631. www.millardscrossing.com PORT AUTHOR - Museum of the Gulf Coast - Rich heritage/popular culture Gulf Coast reg.exciting perm./temp. exhibits. Mon-Sat. 9A-5P. $3.00srs, $4.00-adults, $2.00-(4-18 yr.) FREE (3 yrs. & under). $3.00-students w/ID. 409-982-7000. www. museumofthegulfcoast.org Terrell - Terrell Heritage Museum - Former Carnegie Library building. Features local artifacts. Group Tours Welcome. Saturday and Sunday 1pm – 4pm or by appointment. 207 N. Frances St. 972524-6082 www.terrellheritagemuseum.org WOODVILLE – Heritage Village Museum & Restaurant – 1 mi west on US 190. Pioneer buildings/ artifacts – early Tyler County. “BoardingHouse” style at Pickett House Restaurant, Museum Store: handcrafts. 409-283-2272. Daily, except major holidays. Mon-Fri 112 • Sat-Sun 11-6. 1-800-323-0389

Museums – RailRoad Museums

DENISON – Red River Railroad Museum- Located inside the Katy Depot, 101 E. Main, 903-463-KATY, railroad museum features Katy railroad memorabilia along with static display of railcars. Terrell - TX Midland RR Executive Car - Dates to 1885 and used by Col. EHR Green. Tours by reservation. Ben Gill Park. 972-524-6082 www.terrellheritagemuseum.org

Nature Preserves

DENISON – Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge –15 mi. SW Denison, year round, free GREENVILLE - Paul Mathews Prairie is a 100-acre native prairie meadow that has never been plowed. Grasses and wildflowers that greeted early settlers still wave in the summer breezes. Birders and wildflower enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to this meadow. 4.5 miles west from the juncture of US 69 and US 380 in Greenville. 903-455-1510 www.greenvillechamber.com

Nature Tours

CONROE - W. Goodrich Jones State Forest - Clusters of endangered Red Cockaded Woodpeckers find sanctuary in these 1,733 wooded acres southwest of Conroe. The area is a favorite for birders. Sweetlife Nature Trail, picnic tables, horseback riding and fishing make this forest a perfect day-use destination. 936-273-2261 texasforestservice.tamu.edu •Village Creek Paddling Trail - Texas Parks & Wildlife - 409-246-3413 KOUNTZE - Big Thicket National Preserve - A unique area designated International Biosphere Reserve by the United Nations. Recognized as a globally important bird area and part of the Great Texas Coastal Bird Trail. Hiking trails, canoe/kayak, primitive camping. 409-951-6700. www.nps.gov/bith

NACOGDOCHES – SFA Interpretive Trail -Two trails spanning three miles take visitors into some of the most dynamic and scenic areas of the Angelina National Forest. Some 150 species of birds and 80 species of butterflies may be seen. Travel west on State Highway 7 to FM 2782 (about 6-7 miles from Loop 224 in Nacogdoches); turn south (left) and drive about 2.5 miles to entrance of the Experimental Forest. 888-OLD-ESTTOWN or www.visitnacogdoches.org ORANGE - Shangri La Botanical Gardens & Nature Center - Nestled within 252 acres in the heart of Orange, visit a place with a mission to improve and enrich the quality of life in Southeast Texas. See more than 300 plant species, enjoy boat excursions to educational outposts, state-of-the-art bird blind, a bat house and up-close encounters with nature. 409670-9113 www.shangrilagardens.org TYLER- Azalea and Spring Flower Trail - Tyler’s annual Azalea and Spring Flower Trail features mile after mile of blooming azaleas, dogwood trees and spring flowers that one must see to believe. The breathtaking beauty of this annual display has been praised by visitors as a floral wonderland and a photographer’s paradise. We invite you to enjoy the vivid colors and sweet scents that only an East Texas spring can provide. Make plans to attend this special once a year spectacular. 1800-235-5712. www.VisitTyler.com

Restaurants

CLUTE - Asiel’s Restaurant - is a great place to eat and view artifacts found at the site. In 2003 the remains of two mammoths were found while digging out the lake for the Mammoth Lake DIve Park which is next door to Asiels. 330 North Dixie Drive, Clute ,Texas 77531 GRAND SALINE - Carpenter’s Back Porch Restaurant - full menu of Mexican and American favorites, open 7 days from 6AM to 10PM, US80, 310 W. Garland, near downtown, 903-962-4002, Don’s Dairy Bar-1950s drive-in, Mex/Amer. Food, shakes, malts, burgers. (US80)W, 914. W. Garland, 903-9624239, Papadale’s Grill and Cantina – US 80 at Green St., near downtown, full menu of Mexican and American selections with salad bar and full service cantina/bar, 903-962-4260 Rocky’s Catfish & Shrimp Buffet – 126 N. Main, Full salad bar, catfish, fried & boiled shrimp, mouth-watering blackberry cobbler and ice cream. 5PM Fri. & Sat. Only, 903-312-2433 KOUNTZE - Mama Jacks - 409-246-3450 •Moz Grill - 409-246-2809 •Captain Rons Seafood 409-246-3700 •K-Town Pizza Pro - 409-246-2660 •Subway - 409-246-1191 HENDERSON - Enjoy your trip to Henderson while visiting several of our fine restaurants. Offering 41 restaurants to choose from, you have a choice from the following: American, Italian, Oriental, Seafood, Tex-Mex and fast food chains. Visit our website at www.visithendersontx.com. Most restaurants are located on business Hwys 79/259. In addtion you will find fine eateries in the National Register Historic Downtown District. 866-650-5529 www.visithendersontx.com

Texas Heritage Trail Hosts LONGVIEW - Johnny Cace’s Seafood & Steak House – 1501 E. Marshall Ave., Hwy. 80 E. Serving East Texas since 1949. Famous New Orleans seafoods, heavy aged beef steaks. Sun. 11A-3P, Tu.-Thurs. 11A-10P, Fri.-Sat. 11A-11P. 903-7537691. www.JohnnyCaces.com •Pizza King – Crust & sauce made fresh daily. Favorites: King’s Delight & Pepperoni. 50’s Decor. Tues-Thurs 11a-10p, Fri-Sat 11a-11p, Sun 4p-10p

Reunions & Weddings

HENDERSON - Henderson Civic Center - This facility opened in February of 2010. The center is located overlooking scenic Lake Forest Park on Highway 64 West. The 20,000 square foot state of the art facility is available for a variety of events including: Conferences, meetings, parties, trade shows, weddings and reunions. 866-650-5529 www.hendersontx.us KOUNTZE - Crazy Horse - 409-861-1472 •Indian Springs Lodge - 409-246-2508

Shopping

AVINGER – Harris Mercantile & Trading Co.- Antiques, hardware, general merchandise, home furnishing accessories, gift items, live plants, tack, leather gun belts, new camo and work gear. Texas and western goods. A unique Old Time General Store. Featured in Southern Living Magazine March 2005. Also at 1st Monday Canton - The Harris Plaza. Now have storage units for rent. Daily 10AM to late. 7 Days a week. 15Main St., Avinger, TX 75630. 903-562-1882. CANTON – Home of First Monday Trade Days– World famous! 7,000+ vendors: antiques /collectibles/arts/crafts/food. Room for RVs, tents, vans. Easy access Hwy 859 & Hwy 64. www.visitcantontx. com or 877-462-7467. Historic Downtown Canton – Unique shops and restaurants. GRAND SALINE – Ben & Neva’s Flowers and Gifts – 201 N.Waldrip (corner of Waldrip & Hwy.80) Floral arrangements, gift boutique and more; 903-962-4444 Mistletoe Boots & Western Wear – 240 N. Main (at the red light at US 80), Rocky Mountain, Justin, Red Wing, Cinch Jeans, belts, hats, bags, accessories. Men’s, women’s, children’s. Discount prices. 72 year in business–35 at this location. Open Mon.-Sat. 8A-5P. 903-962-4946 GREENVILLE - Historic Downtown Greenville Antique malls, boutique shopping, restaurants, wineries and public gardens make downtown Greenville a relaxing escape from hectic big-city life. Take the Historic Downtown Walking tour to find out about Greenville’s cotton heydays and other interesting tidbits of local history. Several State and National Register Historic Landmarks can be found downtown. 903-457-3138 www.greenville-texas.com HENDERSON – Shop till you drop in the downtown National Register Historical District. Enjoy antiques galore, upscale clothing, speciality shops, boutiques along with upscale eateries. Heritage Square is located in the heart of the area which offers a place to sit and relax. Henderson is a Texas and National Main Street City. 866-650-5529 www.mainstreethenderson.com

HILLSBORO - Outlets at Hillsboro - Located between Dallas/Fort Worth and Waco off of I-35. Over 42 brand name stores. 104 IH 35 NE. 254-582-9205. www.outletsathillsboro.com JEFFERSON – Jefferson General Store –Old tyme soda fountain, nostalgia gifts, Texas products, T-shirts, hats and caps, shoes, toys, Texas music, Texas gifts, salsas, jams and jellies, Blue Bell Ice Cream, Pecan Pralines made daily, 5 cent coffee. Bring the kids. Have some fun. Sun.-Thur. 9A-6P,Fri.&Sat. 9A-10P. 113 E. Austin St. 75657. 903-665-8481. www.jeffersongeneralstore.com TERRELL - Tanger Outlets - More than 40 stores. I-20 @ Hwy 34, Exit 501. 972-524-6034

STATE PARKS

ATHENS - Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center – 300,000 gallons of aquaria with native Texas fish, a daily dive show, fishing, an alligator exhibit and a wetlands trails to go turtle-spotting, see bees at work and walk off stream. Admission $5.50 for adults, $4.50 for seniors 65 and older, $3.50 for children ages 4-12. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Tues-Sat, 1-4 p.m. Sun. Located on Lake Athens at 5550 FM 2495. 906-676-2277 www.AthensTX.org BONHAM - Bonham State Park - 903-583-2055. HENDERSON – Martin Lake Creek State Park – Near Tatum, Carthage. 903-836-4616 or 903-8364336. (Panola County) SHERMAN - Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge - Lies on the Big Mineral Arm of Lake Texoma. Hiking, birding, fishing, recreation, guided tours, and free programs. 903-786-2826; friendsofhagerman.com

TRADE DAYS

CANTON – Home of First Monday Trade Days – World Famous! “Shopping adventure as big as Texas!” Starts Thurs. (before 1st Monday of each month) and runs thru Sunday. Oldest and largest open air market bringing over 7000 vendors & 400,000 visitors together on a 200-acre park in Canton. Antiques/collectibles/arts/crafts/food. Room for RV’s, tents, vans. Access Hwy 859 & Hwy 64. 877-462-7467 www.visitcantontx.com

Visitor Centers

HUNTSVILLE - Sam Houston Statue Visitor Center & Gift Shop - 77 foot tall statue welcomes visitors from around the world to Huntsville/Walker County and the state of Texas Open 7 days a week call for more information. 800-289-0389 www.huntsvilletexas.com

Wineries

GREENVILLE - Blue Armadillo and Landon Wineries - Texas Wines and live music are both part of the attraction at these two wineries on historic Lee Street in downtown Greenville. The Blue Armadillo is housed in a 120 year old former bank building. Landon Winery converted the former Kress Building on the north side of the Courthouse Square and also includes an outdoor patio with grape vines. 903-4551510 www.greenville-texas.com

History comes in all sorts of different and abundant packages in Texas. Here’s a few ways you can explore history in Texas: Just ask yourself, how do you like your history — legal, haunted or buried? By Jo Lee Ferguson They stand tall and regal throughout Texas — the county courthouses that have been witness to much of Texas’ history. As the Texas Historical Commission explains it, the state established counties as the cornerstone of local government after Texas won its independence from Mexico. The “golden age of courthouse construction” began in 1881. That’s when the state lawmakers allowed counties to issue debt to build new courthouses. The Texas Historical Commission says the state is home to more than 220 historical courthouses built before 1948 that are still standing, and they all have fans in Brett Cameron and Ted Lerich, who created the website texascourthouses.com some 14 years ago. In 2007, they embarked on a three-year journey to photograph all the state’s active and retired courthouses. They were amateur photographers who wanted to practice their craft and learn about Texas history. Since then, they’ve expanded the website to include other elements of Texana. They started with courthouses in part because of their architectural beauty. “With that photo (of each courthouse), we want to drive people to go look at those courthouses and at

the same time go and visit the ma and pa stores and craft malls,” Cameron said. “Those are the people we met along the way. That’s what we’re trying to let people know — Texas is a great place to visit and to live.” The courthouses are the “tip of the iceberg” in terms of what people will experience. “It’s the architecture, it’s the history, it’s basically the looking at and imagining what has transpired there at that site, along with some of the changes that have taken place,” Lerich said. Despite their beauty and significance in Texas history, many of the state’s courthouses had fallen into disrepair over the years. In 1999, the state initiated its Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation Program, which provides grants to help counties restore historical courthouses. continued on page 47

Waxahachie Courthouse

Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a look at some of the restored courthouses. For more information, visit www.thc.state.tx.us: CASS COUNTY COURTHOUSE: Being restored to 1934 appearance; only continuously functioning antebellum courthouse in Texas; expected restoration completion in Spring 2012. DALLAS COUNTY COURTHOUSE: Opened in 1892; rededicated in 2007

Johnson County Courthouse

Harrison County Courthouse

HARRISON COUNTY: Opened in 1901; rededicated June 20, 2009. JOHNSON COUNTY COURTHOUSE: Completed in 1913; rededicated in 2007. LAMAR COUNTY: Opened in 1917; rededicated in 2005

Hillsboro Courthouse

Dallas County Courthouse

Hill Country

The heart of Texas. with plenty of beautiful natural attractions, including forests, plains, deserts, mountains, drylands, wetlands and almost every eco system enjoyed by many. COUNTIES:

Bandera, Blanco, Burnet, Comal, Crockett, Ed-

wards, Gillespie, Hays, Kendall, Kerr, Kimble, Kinney, Lampasas, Llano, McCulloch, Mason, Medina, Menard, Mills, Real, San Saba, Schleicher, Sutton, Travis, Uvalde, Williamson

STP

South Texas Plains

Birding, sandy deserts, river tubing, museums galore celebrating the history of South Texas, diverse culture, great food, music, sports and industries.

COUNTIES: Atascosa, Austin, Bastrop, Bee, Bexar, Brooks, Caldwell, Colorado, DeWitt, Dimmit, Duval, Fayette, Frio, Goliad, Gonzales, Guadalupe, Hidalgo, Jim Hogg, Jim Wells, Karnes, La Salle, Lavaca, Live Oak, McMullen, Maverick, Starr, Webb, Wilson, Zapata, Zavala

P&L

Prairies & Lakes

Experience cosmopolitan pleasures, world-class shopping and entertain ment, major tourist attractions, thoroughbred racing, museums to aviation, historic downtown squares and parks, Cowboys, Mavericks, and Rangers. COUNTIES: Anderson, Bell, Bosque, Brazos, Burleson, Collin, Comanche, Cooke, Coryell, Dallas, Delta, Denton, Ellis, Erath, Falls, Fannin, Franklin, Freestone, Grayson, Grimes, Hamilton, Henderson, Hill, Hood, Hopkins, Hunt, Johnson, Kaufman, Lamar, Lee, Leon,

PanHandle Plains

PHP

The Panhandle Plains make up the largest region of Texas and, as you might expect, comprises a wide variety of outdoor activities; from riding, trails surrounded by beautiful rock formations at Palo Duro State Park to rolling prairies at Lake Arrowhead State Park. COUNTIES:

Andrews, Archer, Armstrong, Bailey, Baylor,

Borden, Briscoe, Brown, Callahan, Carson, Castro, Childress, Clay, Cochran, Coke, Coleman, Collingsworth, Concho, Cottle, Crosby, Dallam, Dawson, Deaf, Dickens, Donley, Eastland, Fisher, Floyd, Foard, Gaines, Garza, Glasscock, Gray, Hale, Hall, Hansford, Hardeman, Hartley, Haskell, Hemphill, Hockley, Howard, Hutchinson, Irion, Jack, Jones, Kent, King, Lamb, Lipscomb, Lubbock, Lynn, Martin, Mitchell, Moore, Motley, Nolan, Ochiltree, Oldham, Palo, Parmer, Potter, Randall, Reagan, Robertson,

Limestone, McLennan, Madison, Milam, Montague, Navarro, Parker, Rains, Red River, Robertson, Rockwall, Somervell, Tarrant, Van Zandt, Washington, Wise

This is Sam Houston Country, with a great monument where a critical battle for Texas independence was fought, with Battleship Texas berthed nearby. Here is the largest city in the South, NASA, the home of the Astronauts, a historic island with 32 miles of beaches, a historical ranch, world-class sports, and the king of all rodeos.

COUNTIES:

Kleberg, Matagorda, Nueces, Orange, Refugio, San Patrici, Victoria, Waller, Wharton, Willacy

Stonewall, Swisher, Taylor, Terry, Throckmorton, Tom Green,

Piney Woods

Home of Woodland Indians, giant lakes, mission sites along the El Camino Real, National Forests, a forestry museum, stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest Sassafras tree, Big Thicket National Preserve, scenic drives, Cherokee battlegrounds, unique courthouses, ghost towns. COUNTIES:

Aransas, Brazoria, Calhoun, Cameron, Cham-

bers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Jackson, Jefferson, Kenedy,

Runnels, Scurry, Shackelford, Sherman, Stephens, Sterling, Wheeler, Wichita, Wilbarger, Yoakum, Young

Texas Gulf Coast

BBC

Big Bend Country

A region of extremes. The desert is dry and hot in the day and cold at night. Plants and animals are adapted for the desert. The mountains provide cold weather in the winter, where on occasion it even snows.. COUNTIES:

Brewster, Crane, Culberson, Ector, El Paso,

Hudspeth, Jeff Davis, Loving, Midland, Pecos, Presidio, Reeves, Terrell, Upton, Val Verde, Ward, Winkler

Angelina, Bowie, Camp, Cass, Cherokee,

Gregg, Hardin, Harrison, Houston, Jasper, Liberty, Marion, Montgomery, Morris, Nacogdoches, Newton, Panola, Polk, Rusk, Sabine, San Augustine, San Jacinto, Shelby, Smith, Titus, Trinity, Tyler, Upshur, Walker, Wood

Prairies & Lakes

Make Sure

Summer Fun is Safe

The warm weather is here and that means plenty of outdoor excursions and activities. Whether your plans involve trips to the beach, park, forest or simply your own backyard, make sure safety is a priority.

Sun Safety

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. It can be prevented by taking steps to protect your skin. Remember, the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays shine down even on cloudy days. So even when the sun seems to be hiding, follow safety measures. * Wear sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher. * Apply sunscreen to dry skin 15 to 30 minutes before going outside, again every 2 hours once in the sun, and even more often if you’re swimming or sweating.

Located in the Heart of Red River Valley, Paris was founded in 1839 and became the Lamar County seat in 1844. Paris became incorporated in 1845 and has grown to play a major role in Texas economy within Northeast Texas. Paris received recognition in 1998 for being named “Best Small Town in Texas” by Kevin Heubusch in his book “The New Rating Guide to Life in America’s Small Cities.”

www.TerrellTexas.com 38

* Stay out of the sun from 10 am to 4 pm, when the sun is strongest. * Seek shade when it’s available. * Cover up as much as reasonably possible. * Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses that block UV rays.

Bug Safety

For most people, insect bites and bee stings aren’t dangerous. But for people who are allergic to them, bites and stings can cause a potentially fatal allergic reaction called anaphylactic shock. This must be handled as a medical emergency. When in the woods, wear long sleeves and pants to prevent tick bites. Most tick bites are harmless. But many types of ticks carry and spread Lyme Disease. Check your clothing, socks and body for ticks when returning from your trip to spot potential ticks early on before they bite. Continued on page 46

Prairies & Lakes

Dining Wineries Shopping

Audie Murphy Museum â&#x20AC;˘ Chocolate Factory â&#x20AC;˘ Historic Downtown For more information or to book your best lodging deal...

www.greenvillechamber.com

Call us at 903-455-1510 /This ad funded in part with Greenville Hotel/Motel Tax Revenues 39

Prairies & Lakes

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MEET! PLAY! EAT! STAY! KILLEEN!

Visit Killeen, proud neighbor of Fort Hood, the largest military base in the free world! Located on SH 190, just west off IH-35, this diverse community is home to over 150 restaurants which feature the unique flavors of the more than 20 different cultures living here. With over 35 hotel choices, Killeen offers a place to stay that fits any budget. The Killeen Civic and Conference Center, Mayborn Planetarium and Space Center, and the Killeen-Fort Hood Regional Airport allow you to meet, entertain, and arrive in style. Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a round of golf at Stonetree Golf club or waterskiing on the lake, catching a rodeo or a night at the theatre, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always something for everyone. Killeen is â&#x20AC;&#x153;Where Freedom Grows!â&#x20AC;?

(254) 501-3888 40

www.visitkilleen.com

Prairies & Lakes

East Texas:

OLD SOUTH, NEW WEST Two of the world’s most modern airports, Dallas-Fort Worth International and Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airports, and the Shreveport Airport, are getaways to the region, and serve as vital links in a network that can carry visitors to East texas from anywhere in the world. And, on the Gulf Coast, Texas seaports rank second only to New York in the number of tons handled. Saltwater comes closest to the heart of North America along the coast of Texas; that is if you rule out Hudson Bay, which is closed by ice much of the year. East Texas is all winter golf, tennis and fishing country, A fisherman is never more than an hour’s drive from a major lake or bay. The Gulf and the large bays have salt-water beaches, and the fisherman has his choice of wide-mouthed bass and channel cat in freshwater or the Gulf game fishing. As you travel across Texas, you will see a great variety of topography, and of course crops. East Texas was once the land of cotton, cotton went west in the 1930’s with irrigation and cattle came east with improved pastures and eradication of the tick. Cattle are everywhere in East Texas, and meadow yield big rolls of hay. Roadside stands offer agricultural products from the land, from tomatoes and melons to sweet potatoes and sugar cane.

East Texas is only one-fifth of the land area of Texas. But take a few tall pines off the top of Maine, and East Texas would be as big as New England; six states. It has: a pine-hardwood forest area as big as the state of Kentucky. Big man-made reservoirs and thousands of smaller lakes, along with one of the souths great natural lakes. It has the playground of that of the Gulf of Mexico, with its bays and channels reaching to the ports of the great Texas Coastal Plain, a steam tourist railroad that runs through the scenic hills, and a indian reservation in the forest. East Texas has the largest oil field in the continental United States, museums which commemorate the great East Texas oil field, spindle top, and the great forest industry. You can find shrines of Texas History where the Declaration of Independence from Mexico was signed; the pivotal battle fought, and where Sam Houston lived. The El Camino Real was one of the oldest roads in North America blazed by the Spaniards in 1691. An old stone fort, ceremonial Indian mounds, and a log mission along the road are also found here. There are river towns and former plantation areas. Attractions that lure visitors to East Texas include country inns, rose fields, potteries and unique dining places old south catfish dinners, deep-sea foods, barbecue and Cajun food. Some Texas cities along the historic Red River Valley spill over into Oklahoma and Arkansas. The Sabine River Valley, which joins Texas with Louisiana, is a melting pot with some of the flavors of both states melding at these points. There is

a reflection of how East Texans have fun in rodeos, country fairs, trail rides, festivals. Changing seasons are similiar to other places. For example spring is like Augusta and autumn is like Virginia. There is something for everyone, make sure to keep Texas a priority for your next trip.

CONROE, TX Urban Jewel in the Piney Woods

Riverboating, bird watching everything in between!

woodlandsresort.com | 800-433-2624

Forest Oasis | Spa | Championship Golf East TX Tourism Guide w 2.2167 x h 2.4625

We are a delightful blend of nature, arts and fun in the beautiful Piney Woods of East Texas. Call toll free for a FREE Visitors Guide 1-877-426-6763 ETVG11

www.conroecvb.net 43

Piney Northeast Woods

Linden is a classic East Texas town. Surrounded by by the piney woods, Linden is one of the three cities on the Wildflower Trails of Texas. The Cass County Courthouse (shown below), built in 1860, is Texas’ oldest working courthouse. It will soon undergo a multi-million dollar restoration. The Cass County Sun is one of Texas’ oldest newspapers, founded in 1875. Its original press was sunk in the Red River during the Civil War, but is now on display on the courthouse square. Linden’s historic CCC Campsite on TX 11 was dedicated in 2003. The Linden RV Park has 40 units with full hook-ups.

T-Bone Walker Blues Fest

The Cass County Cowboy Gathering celebrates the Texas Cowboy and the Love of the West. Working ranch rodeo, music, kids events and craft show make it a great time for lots of family fun. Wildflower Trails of Texas – Beautiful roadside wildflowers in spring. Special events in Linden, Avinger & Hughes Springs.

Music City Texas presents national & regional entertainers from all genres of music. Linden is the home of Scott Joplin, T-Bone Walker, Don Henley of the Eagles, and Richard Bowden of the Pinkard & Bowden comedy duo. Call for info & tickets. 903-756-9934.

Music City Texas Mural on downtown building by Brad Attaway. 2012 EVENTS

Post Office Mural by Victor Arnautoff (1939) The Last Crop

Keb’ Mo’ in concert.

42st Wildflower Trails of Texas – April 22-23 Cass County Championship Rodeo – April 27-28 Annual Lions Follies - February Big Bird Crawfish Boil – May 19 7th Annual T-Bone Walker Blues Fest – June 22-23 Cass County Cowboy Gathering – TBA Winter Fest – December 1

Linden Area Chamber of Commerce • P.O. Box 993 • 903-756-3106 City of Linden • LEDC • P. O. Box 1229 • Linden, Texas 75563 • 903-756-7774 musiccitytexas.org • lindentexas.org • lindenwildflowertrails.com • tbonewalkerbluesfest.com casscountycowboygathering.com

Northeast Piney Woods

Area Events • Cass County Spring Fest • July Celebration • Moonlight Madness • Hoot n’ Holler BBQ • Cullen Baker Fair • Holiday Open House • Christmas Parade Contact the Atlanta Area Chamber of Commerce at 903-796-3296 or visit www. AtlantaTexas.org for more information on these events.

Points of Interest

East Texas Vacation Guide 2010 • Atlanta Historical Museum • T&P Railway Depot

• Cass County Family History

�� Print As Is Center Atlanta Public Library �� Re-run With •Changes • Smith-Hoyt-Youngs House Caddo Lake State Park �� New Ad

Renovated in late 2001. 65 rooms. full, hot breakfast 65 rooms. FREE, full, FREE, hot breakfast, served daily. Antique shops and cultural heritage nearby. antique shops and cultural heritage nearby.

400 South Walcott(US HWY 59) Jefferson, TX 75657 903-665-3983 • Fax 903-665-3536 www.InnofJefferson.com

HARRIS MERCANTILE & TRADING CO.

Antiques, hardware, general merchandise, home furnishings accessories, gift items, live plants, tack, leather gun belts, new camo & work gear. Texas & Western goods. A unique Old Time General Store. Featured in Southern Living Magazine March 2005. Also at 1st Monday Canton-The Harris Plaza. Storage units for rent. Daily 10AM to late. 7 days a week.

#15 Main St., Avinger, TX 75630 903-562-1882

The City of Jefferson, Texas...”Riverport to the Southwest”. At a time when steamboats plied the Big Cypress brkfst, outdoor River from the Port of New Orleans, 400 S. Walcott, true Southern gentility was the order of the day. This sense of timelessness prevails even unto today. Read more about it..... www.jefferson-texas.com

Listings under HOTELS & MOTELS JEFFERSON – Inn of Jefferson – Comp. full hot pool, micro/fridge in king rms, internet access-lobby. Jefferson, 75657, 903-665-3983.

Piney Woods

Continued from page 38

Water Safety

Watch your children closely when they’re in or around a pool. Before they learn to swim, flotation devices can help them stay above water, but they are not foolproof and should not be used as a replacement for adult supervision. Early on, teach children the rules of safe swimming, including no running near a pool and no diving in waters less than five feet deep.

Heat Safety

To avoid heat-related illness, drink plenty of water or liquids with electrolytes. Know the symptoms of heat rash and heat stroke to prevent serious problems. If you have young children or pets, never leave them alone in the car with the windows rolled up. If a person has stopped sweating, heat injury can occur and medical attention should be taken promptly.

ing, biking or running, stay focused on the road and be aware of the drivers and conditions around you. Always wear your seatbelt and ask all the passengers in your car to do the same. And remember that during the summer season there tend to be many people on the road, causing more congestion and road rage. So be patient and drive carefully.

Bike Safety

When you’re biking, make sure your bike is the right size and always wear a helmet that fits you. For the most protection, use a bike light and wear light-colored clothes. Plan ahead to stay safe and the entire family can enjoy this season of fun in the sun.

Travel Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that 40 percent of run-offthe-road car crashes happen because of driver distractions. These include reading, eating and using a cell phone. Whether you’re driv-

ATTRACTIONS

• East Texas Yamboree • Downtown Historic Square • Texas Motorized Trails • Historic Upshur Museum • Flight of the Phoenix Aviation Museum • Gilmer Civic Center • Camp Gilmont • And MORE!

MILES TO GILMER

Queen

Yam LXXIII

• Longview-22 • Tyler-36 • Marshall-40 • Shreveport-80 Kaitlyn Blair Tackett • Dallas-115 • Houston-225 • Austin-260 • San Antonio-340

Upshur County Courthouse

Gilmer Civic Center

Lake Gilmer

106 Buffalo Street, Gilmer, Texas 75644

903.843.2413 Fax 903.843.3759

www.gilmerareachamber.com Email: upchamber@aol.com www.yamboree.com

continued from page 32

Texas History: Haunted

By Jo Lee Ferguson

Go ahead. Scoff. You’ll be in good company. Jodi Breckenridge, owner of The Historic Jefferson Ghost Walk, doesn’t believe in ghosts. Her ghost tour has made her more open-minded on the topic, though she’ll concede only that there are things that happen without logical explanation. For her, the Ghost Walk is all about history. “Like I tell everybody, if you think back even a long way, (telling ghost stories) is an oral tradition. People pass stories down over the years,” she said. “To me it’s not a ghost story unless you know why it’s a ghost story. I think that anywhere there’s a lot of history you’re bound to have these kinds of stories.” Here’s a look at some of the ghost stories you’ll find in the area. (Sources — Breckenridge, “Ghosts of East Texas” and “Southern Fried Spirits,” Henderson Chamber of Commerce) continued on page 52

Jefferson

* Excelsior House Hotel, (903) 665-2513, www.theexcelsiorhouse.com, a radio that has gone off and on by itself, a chair that rocks by itself, unexplained scents * The Jefferson Hotel, (903) 665-2631, www.historicjeffersonhotel.com, cold spots, unexplained footsteps and other noises, a shadowy figured in the corner of a room, unexplained cologne smell * The Claiborne House, (903) 665-8800, www.claibornehousebnb.com, a bed that was always messed up explained when photo captures a ghostly figure sitting on the bed; Commerce * Texas A&M University at Commerce, Performing Arts Center, reportedly haunted by former theater department chairman Henderson * Henderson Civic Theater, (903) 657-2968, www.hendersoncivictheater.com, ghost dubbed “Daphne” has been seen and heard * The Howard-Dickinson House, (903) 657-5528, ghost story centers around a supposed shooting death in which one brother killed another, lights on when they shouldn’t be, sightings of a woman in old-fashioned clothing. Jacksonville * Monument at Killough Massacre, Texas Historical Landmark/W.P.A. obelisk marking site where 18 people were killed or kidnapped by Cherokee Indians in post-Texas Revolution raid

Piney Woods

East Texas’ Most Outstanding Restaurant

Established 1949 Banquet Rooms Available up to 150 Off Premise Catering Available

Sunday 11am-3pm , Tues - Thurs 11am - 10pm, Fri & Sat 11am-11pm 1501 E. Marshall Ave., “Hwy 80” • 903-753-7691 Longview, TX 75601 - www.JohnnyCaces.com

Longview is nestled in the heart of deep East Texas. Located on Interstate 20 and just an hour from Shreveport to the east and two from Dallas to the west and three from Houston to the south, Longview is a perfect location to discover the best of what East Texas has to offer. Known as the city with the “long view” from the high hill, consider these little-known but momentous facts: Longview was the largest city in the largest oil field in the world before Saudi Arabia. The Big Inch Pipeline, the largest, longest oil pipeline in the world in its time started in Longview. It transported as much as 300,000 barrels of oil per day overland to East Coast refineries. Oil from the East Texas Oil Field was credited for winning World War II for the Allies. Highway 80, which parallels I-20, goes through downtown Longview. From Savannah, GA to San Diego, CA, it is the road of history for Martin Luther King, Bonnie and Clyde, Van Cliburn, John F. Kennedy, Billy the Kid, Geronimo, and Cochise.

The Longview Symphony produces 5 classical concerts annually. 903-236-9739. www.longviewsymphony.org Opera East Texas, brings timeless operatic masterpieces to the stage. 903-234-1300. www.operaet.com. The Longview Museum of Fine Arts, located at 215 E. Tyler St., houses a comprehensive collection of paintings, drawings, prints and sculptures, a permanent collection and presents special exhibits monthly. www. lmfa.org. Visit the R.G. LeTourneau Museum on the R. G. LeTourneau University campus. 903-233-3672. Many local arts venues as well as touring productions are presented at the beautiful new Belcher Center also located on the campus. www.BelcherCenter.com. The Gregg County Historical Museum located in the 100 year old Everett Building, 214 N. Fredonia, listed in the National Register of Historic Places, houses exhibits which illustrate the development of Gregg County with numerous artifacts. 903-753-5840. www. gregghistorical.org

East Texas Tourism hosts an annual three day “Hwy 80 Sale” twice a year the third weekend in April and October. Businesses along Hwy 80 offer Garage Sale bargains on a wide variety of items. Longview is the home of Neal McCoy, Entertainer of the Year, 1998 & 1999 TNN/Music City News Country Awards. Video of the Year “Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye,” 1997 TNN/Music City News County Awards, ACM/Home Depot Humanitarian Award 2005, 3 platinum albums, and 1 gold album. Platinum hits are “No Doubt About It” and “You Gotta Love That!” He promotes his East Texas Angel Network through an annual Celebrity Golf Tournament and Concert (www.nealmccoy.com). While you’re in Longview you’ll enjoy many special events, and fine arts programs: Artsview Children’s Theatre, a children’s progressive theatre arts education/outreach program presenting several shows each year. www.artsviewchildrenstheatre.com.

w Ad Piney Woods

For more Cherokee County

information on vacations contact:

Cherokee County Industrial Commission

P.O. Box 67, Rusk, Texas 75785 (903) 683-4242

and the Alto, Jacksonville and Rusk Chambers of Commerce Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no place more beautiful in East Texas than Cherokee County.

Please see related entries for the City of Jacksonville, City of Rusk and City of Alto (The El Camino Real)

Piney Woods Northeast

N w is F) 90

LONDON MUSEUM & TEA ROOM Open year round 9-4 M-F August 31 30 10-3 Sat. March 1-September (Last Tour Begins at 3:00 PM) Tea Room 11–2 M-F (open by appointment anytime) Monument in the center of highway is a Memorial to those who lost their lives in the London School Explosion in 1937. 10690 Main St.• New London, Texas 75682 903-895-4602 www.newlondonschool.org www.nlse.org londonmuseum@hotmail.com londonmuseum@embarqmail.com

Return form to: East Texas Tourism Ass

Texas History: Buried continued from page 47

By Jo Lee Ferguson

HILL COUNTY/ HILLSBORO Hillsboro City Cemetery — Established 1855 JOHNSON COUNTY/CLEBURNE Watts Chapel Methodist Church and Cemetery — Established by family of Nathaniel Franklin Watts, who later became Johnson County commissioner

Texas’ cemeteries tell stories all their own, about where families lived and died, their triumphs and tragedies, and the loves they found and lost. “Cemeteries are irreplaceable cultural resources,” said Anne Shelton, cemetery preservation coordinator for the Texas Historical Commission. “These landscapes provide the living with an opportunity to contemplate history, and their personal relationship to the past.” Here are some examples of the historical cemeteries in and near our partner cities. Be careful not to trespass on private property when visiting cemeteries, to follow all posted notifications and regulations and, Shelton said, to be respectful, of the dead, their descendants and property owners. For more information about these and other historical cemeteries, visit the “Atlas” at www.thc.state.tx.us: BRAZORIA COUNTY/ANGLETON Munson Cemetery — cemetery established by Henry William Munson, member of Stephen F. Austin’s colony FANNIN COUNTY/BONHAM Moore’s Chapel Cemetery — Graves of pioneer settlers and Civil War to World War II veterans VAN ZANDT COUNTY/CANTON Hillcrest Cemetery — oldest cemetery in Canton, Van Zandt County pioneers, veterans of Civil War through World War II 52

GRAYSON COUNTY/DENISON Coffman Cemetery — Earliest grave 1867, graves include J. K. Miller, who owned land on which Denison was founded UPSHUR/GILMER Rosewood Cemetery — Established by family who wanted to be close to young son who died, grave markers include granite stones, Woodmen of World monuments, monument to veteran lost at sea in World War II RUSK COUNTY/HENDERSON Pleasant Hill Cemetery — Includes graves of 112 victims of 1937 New London school explosion PANOLA COUNTY/CARTHAGE Holland Quarters Cemetery — AfricanAmerican cemetery on land given to slaves by Spearman Holland after Civil War, veterans from World War I to Vietnam GREGG COUNTY/LONGVIEW Greenwood Cemetery — Burials include veteran of War of 1812, 37 known Confederate veterans, graves of three people killed during the 1894 Dalton Gang robbery of the First National Bank of Longview, “Father of Longview” O.H. Methvin, city, county and state leaders NACOGDOCHES COUNTY Oak Grove Cemetery — Graves of such significant Texans as Thomas Jefferson Rusk, judge, statesman and Sam Houston’s secretary of war; Charles Stanfield Taylor John S. Roberts and William Clark , Jr., who with Rusk signed the Texas Declaration of Independence; former slaves

OAKWOOD CEMETERY Numerous Confederate soldiers who died in the Civil War, separate portion for Jewish Beth-el Cemetery, notable Texan burials include judges, former governor

CASS COUNTY/LINDEN Whittaker Memorial Cemetery — AfricanAmerican cemetery located on former plantation, with graves of slaves, Freemen and their descendants; including possible mass burial of victims of malaria, smallpox and tuberculosis outbreaks

CHEROKEE COUNTY/JACKSONVILLE Earl’s Chapel Cemetery — Veterans from Texas Revolution Civil War, World Wars I and II, area pioneers, victims of the 1918 influenza epidemic

LAMAR COUNTY/PARIS Old Cemetery of Paris — Located on land once owned by Paris founder George Washington Wright; burials of early community leaders, granite marker to members of the 9th Texas Infantry, Confederate States of America, who died in 1862 measles outbreak KAUFMAN COUNTY/ TERRELL The old Pioneer Cemetery: Graves of many Terrell founders

Piney Woods

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Piney Woods Northeast

A living 1840 - 1920 village program with craftsmen and extended hours available by reservation Revisit the early days of Texas and discover a old gem in heart of Texas. The Village Museum includes: Depot, Blaksmith Shop, Doctors office, Museum Store and more...

Annual Harvest Festival 3rd weekened of October open daily 9-5 Adults $4.00 • Children under 12 $2.00

Serving the best in Southern Food Open Daily • Mon-Fri 11-2 • Sat-Sun 11-6 Serving Groups of 20 or more every day with reservations

1-800-323-0389

409-283-2272 fax 409-283-2194 hvillage@eastex.net www.Heritage-Village.org

Discover the oldest town in Texas -- a year-round destination with hands-on museums that chronicle Texas’ monumental history; scenic hiking, biking and walking trails; and one-of-a-kind festivals that people of all ages will enjoy. 1-888-OLDEST-TOWN (888-653-3788) www.VisitNacogdoches.org

CARTHAGE

Home of mineral springs. Exslave â&#x20AC;&#x153;Dr. Mudâ&#x20AC;? known for treatments. Oil discovered in 1902, home of TEXACO, 50,000 barrels of crude daily and 52 saloons. Downtown: Dining, B&B, Antiques, hardware, barber shop.

The Sam Houston Mural, one of many in historic downtown Sour Lake.

Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail The hugely successful Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail,winds through 41 Texas counties, encompassing the entire Texas coastal region. Completed in April 2000, the Trail features 310 distinct wildlife viewing sites. Enhancements such as boardwalks, parking pullouts, kiosks, observation platforms, and landscaping to attract native wildlife have been constructed at a number of sites.

The East To West Texas

Texas Travelers RV Guide!

By Jo Lee Ferguson

So you have your first RV, or maybe you

rented one for vacation. Here are things you need to consider before you hit the road, from Brian Schaeffer, executive director of the Texas Association of Campground Owners. * Check out all the systems before you head out: 1. If it has an engine, drive it a little, move it around, make sure it seems to be working right. 2. Check the other systems as well, such as the gas tanks that power the stove and refrigerator; make sure the tanks are properly secured. 3. Make sure your fresh water holding tanks are full. 4. Check your waste tanks to be sure they’re empty; check on the dump station situation where you’re headed. * Plan what you’ll need for your trip so you can get it all organized before you go. * Research where you’re going and book your reservations in advance. RV camping has become popular, so don’t assume you’ll be able to find a place with openings when you arrive at your destination city. View campground ratings at websites such as www.woodalls.com, www.trailerlifedirectory.com, www.rvparkreviews.com and www.guestrated.com.

These are not your father’s RV parks. The recreational vehicle world has changed in the past 30 years, and along with it, the campgrounds that cater to RV travelers. RVs are bigger, with popouts that make an 8-footwide RV 15-feet wide when it’s parked. Microwaves, televisions, computers and washers and dryers were added to the units, and the parks must meet higher expectations from demanding travelers who look for planned activities, stores, nice bathrooms, laundry rooms, wireless Internet, recreation halls and game rooms. The campground industry has responded, said Brian Schaeffer, executive director of the Texas Association of Campground Owners. They’ve changed to meet the demands of vacationing families, snowbirds seeking refuge in Texas’ mild winters and over-the-road workers who move to an area temporarily, but long enough to need a place to call home. Camping’s roots can be traced back to state parks, he said. At some point, though, the idea of sleeping on the ground in tents and sleeping bags loses its allure when compared to the amenities offered by a recreational vehicle and modernday campgrounds. “I think at the most basic level, certain things haven’t changed, that is to say, a lot of folks get involved in camping because it’s just good clean family fun. It’s a terrific value. It’s an opportunity to be together,” Schaeffer said.

Piney Woods ANGLETON On the Bayou RV Park 25710 FM 2004, Angleton (979) 922-8600, www.onthebayourv.com

CARTHAGE Carthage RV Campgrounds 1294 NE Loop, Carthage (903) 693-6640

Angleton RV Park 799 County Road 44, Angleton (979) 215-6187, www.angletonrv.com

River Ridge RV Park/Campgrounds 529 Private Road 831, Teneha (903) 693-4441, www.riverridgetx.com

CANTON Canton I-20 RV Park 24481 IH-20 , Wills Point (903) 873-8561, www.cantoni20rvpark.com

LONGVIEW Fernbrook RV Park 2073 Farm Road 2011, Longview (903) 643-8888, www.fernbrookrvpark.com

Mill Creek Ranch RV and Cottage Resort 2102 N. Trade Days Blvd., Canton (903) 567-6020, www.millcreekranchresort.com

Hitchin’ Post RV Park 1674 FM 450 South, Hallsville (903) 668-3572, www.hitchingpostrvpark.com

Best Western Canton Inn and RV Park 2251 N Trade Days Blvd., Canton (903) 567-6591

NACOGDOCHES Forest Country RV Park 5001 U.S. Highway 59 N., Nacogdoches (936) 559-1645, www.forestcountryrvpark.com

Canton RV Park 1503 N. Trade Days Blvd., Canton (409) 656-4250

Paradise Lake RV Park 100 Lake Park Drive, Nacogdoches (888) 564-2011, www.paradiselakervpark.com

CONROE Woodland Lakes RV Resort 17110 Firehouse Road, Conroe (936) 273-6666, www.woodlandlakesrvresort.com

LINDEN Linden RV Park 500 Centerhill Road, Linden (903) 756-5591

Thousand Trails Lake Conroe 11720 Old Montgomery Road, Willis (936) 856-7888, www.thousandtrails.com

Country Pines Campgrounds 5935 U.S. Highway 59 N., Marshall 800-848-7087, www.countrypinesrv.com

Lake Conroe Park and RV 36 McCaleb Road, Montgomery (936) 494-5730

TYLER #1 RV Park of Tyler 12421 State Highway 31 W., Tyler (903) 597-6966, www.NumberOneRVPark.com

Castaways RV Park & Resort 12922 Longstreet Road, Willis (936) 856-2949, www.castawaysrvpark.com

Five Star RV Park 10929 Lavender Road, Tyler (903) 593-6815, www.fivestarRVpark.com

GILMER Watts RV Park 2212 Chinaberry Road, Gilmer (903) 734-3380, www.wattsrvpark.com

Whispering Pines Cabin and RV Resort 5583 FM 16 E., Tyler (903) 858-2405, www.whisperingpinesrvresort. com

HENDERSON Big Buck Country RV Park 8579 FM 2658 N., Tatum 903-836-4150, www.bigbuckcountryrvparkllc.com

KE Bushman’s Camp 51152 US Hwy 69 N., Bullard (903) 894-8221, kiepersol.com

H&H RV Park 3805 Highway 79 South, Henderson (903) 836-2006, www.hnhrvpark.com

for more listings and trip ideas please visit www.EastToWestTourism.com

Texas Rose RV Park 14102 Country 431, Tyler (903) 882-4485 JACKSONVILLE Shady Pines RV Park and Campground 220 County Road 4208, Jacksonville (903) 586-0059, www.shadypinesrvparkandcampground.com 59

Hill Country

Backpacking A Great Way to See Nature

There are so many people who are interested in protecting the planet from severe climate change and other environmental threats. However, many people spend little to no time actually enjoying the great outdoors. Backpacking trips are a surefire way to immerse yourself in nature and get different perspectives on the great planet where we live. The deeper you get into the wilderness, the more you can feel isolated and unaffected by the hustle and bustle of civilization and the daily grind. Hiking and backpacking trips can be as relaxing or intense as you desire. They can also be daytrips or overnight excursions. They offer plenty of time for personal reflection, the opportunity to push your physical limits and, of course, give you the chance to explore locations on foot that generally remain untouched by other modes of transportation.

Ready for your own backpacking trip? Here’s what you need to get started!

Figure out where you are going and the type of weather, terrain and other conditions you might experience. It is a good idea to talk to someone who has hiked the particular area you’ll be visiting. He or she can offer advice on how to pack. Remember, when backpacking you will have to carry everything you need. So it pays to minimize what you’re packing to ensure that it is light. Water could be your heaviest item, including any gear, such as tents, if you’re planning an overnight trip. Dried food and prepackaged nonperishable items are generally

Before you visit the Alamo

“Come and Take It”

See where it all began!

Gonzales Memorial Museum

The Gonzales Memorial Museum was built to celebrate the 1936-1937 Centennial of Texas Independence. It houses the “Come and Take It” Cannon and many other items and artifacts pertaining to early Texas History.

Come and take it all in..... - Museums - History - Events

Gonzales, Texas

J. B. Wells House

This historic home was built in 1885 and retains much history of the early years of Texas. Original furnishings continue to grace the fifteen rooms of the interior surroundings.

888-672-1095 www.gonzalestexas.com lightweight and can provide you with the nourish12/6/11 3:39 PM for a day. Be kind to the environment and always carry out what you carry in.

EasttoWest.indd ment you1need

It also is a wise idea to pack a first-aid kit and other safety equipment, such as moleskin or bandages to prevent blisters, sun protection, sunglasses, and a change of clothes. If you need inspiration for a trip, contact the visitors’ bureau for your state or another area and ask about trip ideas. Some sporting goods stores could have brochures and set you up with a hiking group.

Gulf Coast

GREAT

The Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail runs from the Louisiana border all the way to Mexico. It stretches over 500 miles along the coast and comprises more than three hundred separate sites. The trail’s sites are organized into loops, which can be conveniently accessed by car. In the upper Gulf Coast, which is in East Texas, there are these loops: Big Thicket Loop. This includes Wild Azalea canyons, Boykin Springs and Bouton Lake and Sawmill Trails, Champion Woodland Trail, Turkey Creek and Village Creek State Park. Among the long leaf pines and the bald cypresses you can see the rare Red-cockaded Woodpecker. Sabine Loop. Dominated by the Sabine River, the Sabine Loop separates Texas and Louisiana. More than 200 bird species found here, winter here on the coastal plain. Sites include Pleasure Island, Sabine Pass, Texas Point National Wildlife Refuge, Sea Rim State Park, Texas Ornithological Society Sabine Woods, and McFaddin National Wildlife Refuge. Trinity Loop, the northern part out by Bush Intercontinental Airport, is your best bet for a good variety of birding and a chance to experience the Woodlands of East Texas. Also in Houston is the botanical garden at Mercer Arboretum, the environmental education center at Sheldon State Park, and the Jesse Jones Nature Center. San Jacinto Loop. Around by the San Jacinto Monument, three sites offer some of the last existing tidal marshland habitat in the region, reclaimed wetland, and a wetlands education center. Katy Prairie Loop. Lies immediately west of Houston between the Brazos River and the forests to the north. It was once and endless grassland that echoed with cooing of Attwaters’s Prairie Chickens, migrating birds, buffalo, and the cries of Comanche Indians. These include grasslands, moisture retaining wetlands that provide flood protec-

Texas Coastal Trail

tion as well as water for both agriculture and the millions of migratory waterfowl that visit annually: and riparian woodlands that follow the channels of creeks such as buffalo bayou that traverse the prairie. The Galveston Loop. With 32 miles of beach and countless acres of mudflats and tidal sloughs, birding, especially water birding, is good in Galveston throughout the year. In 1837, John James Audubon visited Galveston Bay, later writing glowing about the region’s numerous water birds. Ever since, birders and naturalists have been thrilled by the sight of shorebird-packed mudflats, tidal channels jammed with ibis and Roseate Spoonbills and sand flats covered with nesting terns and Black Skimmers. The larger waders are ever present and except for a few weeks during June and easily July, shorebirds are abundant. During winter, check the seawall’s endless gulf vista for shorebirds, gulls and terns. The Brazoria Loop. contains nine far-flung sites in Brazoria and Fort Bend Counties. Some of the locations such as the Nature center trail at Brazosport College are small and warrant a quick peek first thing in the morning, or perhaps during a lunch break. Others such as Lake Jackson Wilderness Park and the adjacent Gulf Coast Bird Observatory property are good for a couple of hours and Brazos bend is good for an entire day, especially if you are a photographer, and/or pay attention to reptiles amphibians, butterflies, and other life forms present there. The Common thread running through nearly all of these sites is the presence of Brazos River bottomland hardwood forests. 61

Gulf Coast

Welcome to Fun for the Whole Family Make Orange, Texas a year-round destination.

starkmuseum.org

whstarkhouse.org shangrilagardens.org

lutcher.org

Experience small-town charm and world-class culture by visiting venues that offer the best in art, history, nature and culture in the heart of Orange, Texas. For details, visit starkculturalvenues.org. Programs of the Nelda C. and H.J. Lutcher Stark Foundation.

Find yourself at the

S T R K Cultural Venues

Gulf Coast

Texas Flora

Spring & Autumn

Flowers in Texas

There is an old song, “Have you ever been to Texas in the Spring?” The sheer beauty of this season, as it wipes away the dull browns and grays of winter, inspires treks to spring flower trails in city and country. In Texas it means wildflowers carpeting the sides of the roads. The Indian paintbrush, crimson clover, and pink and white phlox are dominant. There are whole fields of buttercups. The State flower, the blue bonnet, is particularly beautiful as it carpets roadsides and fields in the black land prairies. In yards, flowering quince, redbuds and forsythia are early bloomers. The pear, peach and plum blooms are particular favorites. The azalea and dogwood burst into color in March, inspiring special events. In the forests, there’s joy in the sight of the blooming of the wildplum, the dogwood, the wild azalea. To see the majesty of autumn this year, go to the hills and valleys of one of America’s newly discovered fall foliage destinations Texas. There, forty counties are covered with an abundance of hardwood and these for-

ests annually put on a coat of many colors as autumn leaves turn to hues of crimson, gold and orange. The phenomenon of blazing colors occurs from late October until Thanksgiving, usually reaching its peak about the second week of November. It features the turning of the leaves of the hickory, native red and sugar maple, sweet and blackgums, white and red oaks, dogwood, sassafras, and the staghorn sumac. Contrasted with the pine greenery, the foliage makes a spectacular display. East Texas Tourism Association reports on the spring and fall displays through its website... www.EastToWestTourism.com Since 1968, “foliagespotters” have reported weekly on the color as it changes, beginning in late October, as it marches south from the Red River. The reports alert photographers to the best times to bring their cameras. It weekly presents events and attractions, routes and itineraries, current conditions and digital photos, and eye witness foliage reports.

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Enjoy these resort features • Bring Family & Friends for Reunions & Church Retreats • Plenty of Water Fun • Pool and Whirlpools • Play Tennis! • Variety of decor & floor plans • Flex Your Abs in Our Fitness Center Need to stay connected, The Victorian has Free Wi-Fi for its guests… or if you need to just escape being connected, we are just steps from the beach. Check Out Special Offers on our New Website!

6300 Seawall • Galveston • TX • victoriancondo.com www.facebook.com/galvestonvictorian • 888. 598.4295

Get free travel information from these great destinations by sending the reply pages to: P.O. Box 1592, Longview, TX, 75606 or visit our website at www.EastToWestTourism. com Inn Express - South, Longview  Rusk, Texas Henderson  Holiday Angleton  The Depot Museum  Homewood Athens Suites, Longview  Heritage Syrup Festival  Atlanta of Jefferson, Jefferson  Hillsboro  Inn Avinger Jacksonville, Texas Scenic View Motel - Marina & RV Park,  Lonestar Huntsville  JanʼsHarris Mercantile Antiques, Winnsboro  Shallow Jacksonville Texas Creek RV Resort, Gladewater  Jefferson, Bonham Jefferson Historical Museum, Jefferson  Sherman, Texas Jefferson  Canton Sour Lake, Texas  SpringJefferson General Store  Kilgore Carthage/Panola County Oil Museum, Kilgore Street Historical Museum,  Shreveport, Inn ofLAJefferson Charles,County Louisiana  Lake Cherokee LaQuinta Inn & Suites, Longview  Jefferson Historical Museum  Clute Super 8, Mt. Vernon  Terrell, Killeen  Linden, Conroe Texas Texas  Texarkana, Kilgore Texas  Livingston-Polk Corsicana Co, Texas Museum & Tea Room, TexasGracie Music City, Linden Mae’s  London Warehouse Living Arts Center  New London Texas Parks & Wildlife  Kountze  Denison  Linden  DeSoto Melrose Plantation, Natchitoches, LA Jefferson Knife Company,  The Longview  Edgewood Mill Creek Ranch Resort, Canton Jefferson  The Teacherage Arts ViewBed & Breakfast,  Ennis Mt. Vernon, Texas Sour Lake  Ellis Home Décor & Garden  Galveston Museum of the Gulf Coast, Port Arthur Thee Hubbell House Bed & Breakfast,  Fernbrook RV Park  Nacogoches, Victorian Condo Texas Winnsboro  TrinityGreggton Antique Mall  Gilmer County Museum, Groveton Patʼs Porch Antiques, Longview Living ArtsHist. Center,  Warehouse Greggton Co. Museum  Pitty Gladewater Pizza King, Longview Corsicana  Hayes RV  Plano,Shallow Creek RV Resort Texas Waskom, Texas Homewood  Plantation Gonzales Suites & Conference Center,  Waxahachie, Texas Suites Port Aransas  Johnny Cace’s  Grand Saline Winnsboro Area Merchants, Winnsboro  Pizza King  East Texas Gators  Winnsboro, Lonestar Texas  Roseville Nutty’s Butter Bed &Peanut Breakfast, Marshall  Scenic View  Greenville First Name ___________________Middle Initial ______Last Name ________________________  Marshall  Hardin County Mercantile  Batson, Texas Oil Patch Museum  Address ___________________________City _________________State _____Zip ____________  Roseville B&B  Genealogical Society Email Adress ________________________  Pelt_______________________________________Phone Farm Bed & Breakfast  Mesquite 65

Get free travel information from these great destinations by sending the reply pages to: P.O. Box 1592, Longview, TX, 75606 or visit our website at www.EastToWestTourism. com Holiday Inn Express - South, Longview

 Nacogdoches Homewood Suites, Longview  New London  Inn of Jefferson, London Jefferson Mus. & Tea Room Jacksonville, Texas  Orange Janʼs Antiques, Winnsboro  Jefferson, Luther Theater Texas  Jefferson W.H. StarkMuseum, House Jefferson Historical  Shangri La Botanical Kilgore Oil Museum, Kilgore Lake Charles, Gardens & Nature Louisiana  LaQuinta Stark Museum Inn & Suites, Longview  Paris Linden, Texas  Livingston-Polk Port Arthur Co, Texas  LondonMuseum theRoom, Gulf Coast Museum &of Tea New London  Sherman  Sour Lake  MelroseThe Teacherage Plantation, Natchitoches, LA Mill Creek Ranch Resort, Canton  Old Sour Lake Jail  Mt.Terrell Vernon, Texas  Museum TexasofHistorical Commission the Gulf Coast, Port Arthur Nacogoches, Texas  Tyler

Rusk, Texas

 Winnsboro  Thee Hubbell House  Woodville Scenic View MotelVillage - MarinaMuseum & RV Park,  Heritage & Lonestar  Pickett House Shallow Creek RV Resort, Gladewater Sherman, The Woodlands Texas Sour Lake,  TheTexas Woodlands Resort Spring Street Historical Museum, & Conference Center Shreveport, LA

Super 8, Mt. Vernon Louisiana

Terrell, Texas Texarkana, Texas Texas Kinder Music City, Linden Texas Parks WildlifeInn  Best&West.

at Coushatta

 Lake Charles TheRuston Jefferson Knife Company, Jefferson  Shreveport The Teacherage Bed & Breakfast,  Louisiana’s Sci-Port Sour Lake TheeLA StateHouse Parks Hubbell Bed & Breakfast, Winnsboro Trinity County Museum, Groveton Warehouse Living Arts Center, Corsicana Waskom, Texas Waxahachie, Texas

Pitty Patʼs Porch Antiques, Longview Pizza King, Longview Plano, Texas Plantation Suites & Conference Center, Aransas FirstPort Name____________________________________ Last Name____________________________ Winnsboro Area Merchants, Winnsboro Roseville Bed & Breakfast, Marshall City ________________ Winnsboro, Texas Address ____________________________ State____ Zip_______________ First Name ___________________Middle Initial ______Last Name ________________________ Email Address ___________________________________ Phone _____________________________ Address ___________________________City _________________State _____Zip ____________ Email Adress _______________________________________Phone ________________________ 66