A HENDERSON & Rusk County
Howdy Y’all! TOURISM 2020-2021
2 | TOURISM 2020-2021 | RUSK COUNTY MEDIA
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ABOUT HENDERSON
LETTER FROM THE MAYOR PG 5
DEPOT MUSEUM HOWARD DICKINSON HOUSE HENDERSON CIVIC THEATRE HENDERSON CIVIC CENTER HENDERSON PARKS
DOWNTOWN ALLEY ON MAIN LAKE FOREST PARK YATES PARK FAIR PARK
14 HERITAGE SYRUP FESTIVAL
WILDFLOWER TRAILS 16 CHRISTMAS IN HENDERSON
17 MOUNT ENTERPRISE NEW LONDON 18 LONDON MUSEUM 19 21 22 23
GASTON MUSEUM OVERTON REKLAW
LAKE STRIKER
TATUM
MARTIN CREEK LAKE STATE PARK PUBLISHED BY
RUSK COUNTY MEDIA Connecting Consumers To Businesses!
1711 U.S. HIGHWAY 79 S. HENDERSON, TX. 75654 903-657-2501 WWW.THEHENDERSONNEWS.COM County information is from the Texas State Historical Association
RUSK COUNTY MEDIA | TOURISM 2020-2021 | 3
HENDERSON
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he City of Henderson is one of Texas’ best small towns to visit, live and play. This Go Texan Certified Retirement Community is located in the Pineywoods of Northeast Texas just 35 miles from Tyler, Longview and Nacogdoches and offers a true taste of southern hospitality from its historic sites, friendly atmosphere and rich traditions. Henderson is home to more than 13,000 residents and is the county seat of Rusk County. Formed in the 1800s, the downtown business district was laid out around the courthouse square and is now a vibrant downtown historic district. Since 1988 it has been a Texas Main Street City and is also a National Main Street City. Today the unique character of downtown has been preserved and has new life. Henderson is a hub for business activity, serves as a major crossroads in Northeast Texas, and offers a variety of sightseeing opportunities, shopping and dining. Come and see why so many people are making this true Texas community their home.
Main Street Henderson “It’s Good To Be Here!”
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A Texas and National Main Street City
tep back in time and enjoy the small town ambiance of Main Street Henderson. There are many upscale shops fronted with historic facades and colorful awnings mix with down-home antiques and eclectic collections of one-of-a-kind items. We are actively looking for new businesses for our downtown, so talk to us! This is
a great town to live in with caring people, wonderful schools and a quality of life that brings happiness to you. Please come and visit, we hope you will decide to stay! Call for more information about Henderson
903.392.8232
A Texas Main Street City since 1988, we are also a National Main Street City, signifying excellence in our program of preservation and re-use of historic downtown buildings. 4 | TOURISM 2020-2021 | RUSK COUNTY MEDIA
Hello and Welcome to Henderson, Texas! Thank you for the interest that you have shown in our city. Located in the “Heart of East Texas,� Henderson is a vibrant, affordable and active city with so many experiences to share. Start your visit in our National Register Historic Downtown Square. Upscale shopping, antiques, and eateries provide a unique shopping experience. Continue with a visit to one of our local museums or watch live theater at our historic opera house. We have three beautiful parks which have been totally renovated.
A F F I L I AT E
Henderson has achieved many state and national designations for the superb quality of life which offer a perfect community to raise a family. Our GO-TEXAN CERTIFIED RETIREMENT COMMUNITY is one that we are so proud of. Most recently the city received a 1st Place Award in our population size, with Keep Texas Beautiful. We invite you to make your overnight accommodations for a few days in beautiful Henderson. If you happen to plan your visit for the second Saturday in November, be sure to enjoy the Annual Heritage Syrup Festival, the Sweetest Festival in Texas, and the only folk life festival in East Texas. Sincerely,
John W. Fullen Mayor
Visit us at www.visithendersontx.com RUSK COUNTY MEDIA | TOURISM 2020-2021 | 5
DEPOT MUSEUM
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he Depot Museum/Children’s Discovery Center and Operational Cotton Gin is home to a large portion of Rusk County’s history. The five-acre museum features exhibits and 12 restored structures. The Walling Log Cabin built in 1841 and the Arnold Outhouse has been awarded a Texas Historical Marker with the Arnold Outhouse in Texas with a Historical
Open Year Round Mon - Fri 9 am - 4 pm Saturday 9 am-12 pm
514 N. High Street Henderson, TX 903-657-4303
(Saturday for birthday parties only.)
Admission Fees: $3 Adult, $2 Senior $1 Child $1 Carousel Rides www.depotmuseum.com depot@depotmuseum.com
The Depot Museum houses the Rusk County History Museum and Children’s Discovery Center. Clustered on five acres are twelve restored structures from Rusk County’s past. A video introduces guests to the early residents of Rusk County - an intriguing blend of Native American, settlers, and oil-hungry wildcatters. The Rusk County Historical Commission and Genealogy office is also on the grounds.
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Marker. The Arnold Building includes tales of Indians, settlers, schools, technology, wildcatters, as well as industry from Rusk County. Outside the main building is the Beall-Ross house, an example of dogtrot architecture and home to the founder of Bealls Department Store. A large two-story building contains a Continental cotton gin from Mount Enterprise, the last in the county with all the equipment in place. The Depot Museum also housed a saw mill, a restored 1901 Missouri-Pacific depot, the T.J. Walling log cabin, Arnold Outhouse, a general store, print shop, doctor’s office, MOPAC caboose, an oil derrick and a barn and broom factory. The 1950-60s era carousel from Lake Forest Park is the latest edition to the complex. The syrup mill on the grounds is the focus of the Heritage Syrup Festival each year. The museum, located at 514 N. High St., is open year round with the exception of holidays, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday and 9 a.m. until noon on Saturdays, for parties only. For reservations or more information about the museum, call 903-657-4303 or visit www.depotmuseum.com.
HOWARD DICKINSON HOUSE
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he Howard Dickinson House located at 501 South Main is one of the most historic buildings in Henderson. Posed serenely on a gentle hill overlooking South Main Street, the Howard Dickinson House stands as a testament to more than 160 years of Rusk County History. It was the first brick home built in the county by brothers James and David P. Howard, settlers from Virginia. The two were brick masons and carpenters and were involved in building many of the buildings in downtown Henderson. Sam Houston was a frequent visitor to the house and the first president of the Republic of Texas was a cousin to Martha Ann Howard. The Texas statesman’s campaign trunk is displayed in the house. The home was bought in 1905 by
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Mrs. M.C. Dickinson and was used as a boarding house during the East Texas Oil Boom years. The Dickinsons added a wing that contains the library and lived in the home for nearly 50 years. Mr. and Mrs. Homer Bryce purchased the house in 1950, but it stood empty for 14 years. In 1964, Bryce deeded the house to the Rusk County Heritage Association and it was opened to the public as a living museum and meeting place for special events after extensive fundraising for the restoration. The Howard Dickinson House was presented a Texas Historical Medallion in 1968 and was recorded as a Texas Historical Landmark for its importance to Henderson and early Texas history. Tours are by appointment only. For more information, call the Henderson Area Chamber of Commerce at 903-657-6925.
WON TASTE OF RUSK COUNTY 2 YEARS IN A ROW! Best Lunch, Best Restaurant and Best Cook 2019!
Order online and pick up the same day! 102 US Hwy 79 East • Henderson Tx. 75652
Open 5am to 9pm, 7 days a week
903-655-6440
2121 Highway 79 S. • Henderson, TX
903-657-5707
Fax: 903-657-6505
Tire & Lube Express: 903-657-4417
RUSK COUNTY MEDIA | TOURISM 2020-2021| 7
HENDERSON CIVIC THEATRE
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he Henderson Civic Theatre, located in the restored downtown Opera House at 112 E. Main St., offers the finest in community theatre with a wide variety of plays and musicals to suit all tastes. HCT is a nonprofit organization dedicated to engaging and educating the general public through the presentation of dramatic arts in all forms. HCT’s production season begins in the fall and sponsors other unique events throughout the year and is committed to furthering its outreach endeavors through new programs, partnerships, and community involvement. For more information visit www.hendersoncivictheatre. org or call 903-657-2968.
DOWNTOWN
100 East Main St.
10 Blocks Antique Cars Exhibit Arts & Crafts, Retail & Food Vendors Square Dancers and Cloggers Live Music Entertainment Children’s Section Pony Rides Henderson Civic Theatre Melodrama Performances: 11am, 1 pm, 3 pm
SATURDAY
NOVEMBER 13, 2021
DEPOT MUSEUM 514 North High
Ribbon Cane Syrup Making 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Folk Art Demonstrations Henderson, Texas Folk Art Vendors All Day Hayride Food Vendors Shuttles Between Carousel Rides Depot and Downtown Saw Mill Demonstrations For Information Cotton Gin tourism@hendersontx.us Antique Tractors and Engines ph: 866-650-5529 Story Telling or 903-657-4303 Dulcimers, Country, and www.visithendersontx.com Bluegrass Music www.depotmuseum.com
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HENDERSON CIVIC CENTER
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he Henderson Civic Center is located overlooking scenic Lake Forest Park on Texas Highway 64 West. Surrounded by a wooded landscape, a small lake, playgrounds and pavilions. The civic center is a 20,000 square foot multipurpose facility available for a variety of events, including conferences and
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meetings, parties, reunions, weddings and more. The civic center houses a conference room, reception room and 9,000 square foot civic hall that can be divided into two rooms. The building also provides a large, fully furnished commercial catering kitchen. For more information, call 903-392-8232 or visit www.hendersontx.us.
Large venue for weddings, concerts, receptions and more
Full Commercial Kitchen Facility
Meeting and Reception Rooms
1500 Lake Forest Pkwy at Hwy 64 W • Henderson, Texas 75652 Contact 903-392-8232 • www.hendersontx.us RUSK COUNTY MEDIA | TOURISM 2020-2021 | 9
HENDERSON PARKS A ALLEY ON MAIN
Henderson is home to several parks. Located next to the Rusk County Library is an area designed for visitors to enjoy historic downtown Henderson. The area features tables with umbrellas, plants and a water feature on the wall of the library. Lights also hang across the area to provide light in the evening hours for families and friends to meet and visit. Public restrooms are also available.
LAKE FOREST PARK
The large park between the Henderson Civic Center and Henderson Police Department is Lake Forest Park located on Texas Highway 64 West. The park features pavilions, restrooms, a playground, rose gardens and a walkway that leads to a gazebo over the lake. It is a popular spot for fishing, picnics and walking. The park also contains disc golf pavilions. Keep Henderson Beautiful also constructed a plaza at the lake for concerts and other events.
YATES PARK
FAIR PARK
Located on Van Sickle Street, Henderson’s Yates Park features a playground, restrooms, a lighted basketball court and softball field, a splash pad and plenty of open space to play.
Located just a few blocks from downtown on Fair Park Avenue, is bustling Fair Park with activities for the whole family. It includes a lighted pavilion, playground, splash pad for children, skateboard ramps, a softball field, tennis courts, a shaded 1.8 mile ADA concrete walking trail with benches, a seasonal farmers’ market and a new dog park called Fair Paws Dog Park.
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RUSK COUNTY AIRPORT
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EXPO CENTER
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he T-33 training jet is located at the entrance of Rusk County Airport, conveniently located at 3500 County Road 416A, three miles from downtown Henderson. The jet was used to train Air Force pilots during the 1950s and 1960s and it also serves as a memorial to all veterans. Since the completion of the airport terminal, the airport has added covered parking for those who fly, a spacious lobby, a pilot weather and planning room, Wi-Fi access and TV for guests to stay up-to-date on weather and news while traveling. The Rusk County Airport is home to the some of the lowest priced 100LL AVGAS in the country and fuel is available 24/7 by a selfserve credit card terminal at the pump. A courtesy vehicle is also available to travel into Henderson. The airport is home to the annual Air Show held the first Saturday in June. For more information, call Airport Manager Ron Franks at 903-657-7081 or visit www.ruskcountyairport.com.
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he Tommy McDaniel Rusk County Youth Expo Center, located at 3303 FM 13 West, has a long history of hosting many agricultural events for the youth in the community. The center is home to many large events including the Rusk County Youth Project Show, the Rusk County RRCA Rodeo, the East Texas Antique Tractor and Engine Show and the Texas Oilfield Angels Crawfish Boil. The 100,000 square foot facility, renovated in 2016-2017, can accommodate weddings, reunions, jackpot shows, rodeos and a variety of other events. For more information, contact Expo Manager Jennifer Sprayberry at 903-7220101.
Henderson Health & Rehab is an Approved Outpatient Physical and Occupational Therapy Facility.
Skilled, Quality Rehab Health Care For All Long Term, Short Term and Respite Medical Care
1010 West Main • Henderson, Texas
903-657-6513
RUSK COUNTY MEDIA | TOURISM 2020-2021 | 11
MAKE MEMORIES
A Downtown Shopping A Antiques & Boutiques around every corner
Better Half Antiques Covenant Antiques Deadwood South Boutique Donovan’s Kelly B’s Nelda’s Nook Peterson’s Home Furnishings Possibilities
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Rayford Florist Revive & Renew Salon & Spa and QC Jewelry Sassy Sisters Boutique SoShee Boutique The Curious Wren Western Auto Wild Iris Florist & Fine Gifts
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STAY AWHILE...
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A HENDERSON
Alley on Main
Howard Dickinson House
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Making Syrup
Martin Creek Lake State Park
WNTOWN
ast Main St.
Heritage Syrup Festival
DOWNTOWN
A SATURDAY
YEAR AROUND EVENTS
DEPOT
514 No 100 East Main St. NOVEMBER 9, 2019 Ribbon Can 10 Blocks 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. FEBRUARY Antique Cars Exhibit AUGUST Henderson, Texas Folk Art D Mardi Gras RetailSacred Arts & Crafts, & Harp Singing Folk A All Day Hayride Food Vendors Youth Project Show Convention 514 North High Food Square Dancers Shuttles Between APRIL OCTOBER Carou and Cloggers Ribbon Cane Syrup Making Depot Downtown 9 a.m. -Live 5 p.m. Antique TractorEntertainment Show Rusk County Rodeo and Music Saw Mill D *The Wildflower brochure Children’s Section NOVEMBER may be mailed or downFolk ArtForDemonstrations Henderson,APRIL-MAY Texas Information Cot loaded. For mailing contact PonyWild Rides *Self Driving Heritagetourism@hendersontx.us Syrup Tourism Department Antique Trac Folk Artatthe866-650-5529 Vendors ph: 866-650-5529 or email Flower Trails Festival Story All Day Hayride Henderson Civic Theatre tourism@hendersontx.us. or 903-657-4303 FoodDOWNLOAD Vendors JULY DECEMBER Dulcimers Melodrama the brochure at www.visithendersontx.com Shuttles Between Performances: www.visithendersontx.com Bluegr July 4th Celebration Christmas Activities Carousel Rides
SATURDAY
NOVEMBER 9, 2019
DEPOT MUSEUM
0 Blocks e Cars Exhibit Crafts, Retail & od Vendors are Dancers www.depotmuseum.com 11am, 1 pm, 3 pm d Cloggers Depot and Downtown ic Entertainment RUSKSaw COUNTY MEDIA | TOURISM 2020-2021 | 13 Mill Demonstrations ren’s Section For Information Cotton Gin
HERITAGE SYRUP FESTIVAL
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HERITAGE SYRUP FESTIVAL AT THE DEPOT MUSEUM NOVEMBER 13, 2021
Depot Museum Grounds, 514 N. High St., 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Ribbon Cane Syrup Making 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. FolkArt Demonstrations Grist Mill, Herbalist, Woodcarvers, Rope Maker, Printers, Blacksmith, Spinner, Weavers, Soap Making Activities Petting Zoo, Face Painting and much more Carousel Rides $1.00 per person Story Tellers Pavilion 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Antique Tractor and Engine Display Saw Mill Demonstration on the hour Tour the Cotton Gin Entertainment MUSIC TO BE ANNOUNCED 14 | TOURISM 2020-2021 | RUSK COUNTY MEDIA
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s a result of COVID-19 the 2020 Heritage Syrup Festival is canceled but will resume November 13, 2021. The festival is always held the second Saturday in November. The “Sweetest Festival in Texas” is centered around old-time syrup making with folk art, antique tractors and cars, arts and crafts, entertainment, children’s activities, a variety of food vendors and much more. From the Depot Museum, the festivities spread six blocks to Heritage Square in downtown Henderson, visitors can browse among the 150 handcrafted arts and crafts booths, sample East Texas cuisine and enjoy music on stage one or enjoy Henderson Civic Theatre’s performance at the former Opera House. A fun filled experience awaits you on stage two where cloggers and square dancers will entertain you. Relive history while you visit the antique and classic car exhibit. The children’s section provides activities which are sure to promise a fun filled day for the entire family. Hayride shuttles, sponsored by the Rusk County 4-H Club, provide rustic transportation between the Depot Museum and Downtown Heritage Square. This event is free and open to all ages. For more information, call City of Henderson Tourism Department at 866-650-5529 or The Depot Museum at 903-657-4303.
SAVE THE DATE!
32nd Annual Heritage Syrup Festival November 13, 2021 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
See you next year! City Of Henderson Tourism Dept. Toll Free 866-650-5529; Depot Museum 903-657-4303
www.visithendersontx.com
www.depotmuseum.com
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CHRISTMAS IN HENDERSON
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ou are invited to join the many City of Henderson Christmas events! We are honored to kick off the wonderful holiday season with tradition and fun events for the entire family. Beginning with the City of Henderson Downtown Annual Tree lighting Ceremony, which sparks off the festivities, held every year on the first Thursday after Thanksgiving. To the Christmas Parade, sponsored by the City of Henderson, where “Santa” makes his debut and then settles into his little red house in historic downtown Henderson in Heritage Square. The children love to visit and tell him what is on their Christmas list. With many shopping and dining options to choose from, Henderson is a great spot to stop for old fashioned fun! The City of Henderson, Rusk County, has many wonderful events throughout the holiday season for you to enjoy! Visit www. visithendersontx.com for more information. We look forward to seeing you.
WILDFLOWER TRAILS
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uide yourself through historic Rusk County on three wildflower trails in the spring. The trail itineraries will provide a scenic view of the beautiful wildflowers, historical markers, museums, local shopping and incredible views of Rusk County. Download the brochure at www. visithendersontx.com or contact the tourism department at 866-6505529.
903-657-5349
980 N. MARSHALL • HENDERSON, TX www.resairconditioning.net TACLA11289E
TACLB11289R
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Gaston Museum 6562 TX-64, Joinerville, TX 75658 | 903-722-9016 Hours 10am-4pm Fri-Sat and by appointment year round.
Facebook.com/Gastonmuseum or our website gastonmuseum.org
MT. ENTERPRISE
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he city of Mount Enterprise, located south of Henderson in rural Rusk County, is home to around 450 people. The city was named for a small elevation near the town and for the business enterprise of the Vinson brothers, who settled it in 1832. The town owes its existence to the presence of promising iron ore in the area. The Vinson’s real enterprise came from manufacturing and retailing wagons, buggies, furniture, plows, caskets and a patented churn. Lumber was also a large industry in the city. In 1880 the town had three sawmills, a hotel,
A two cotton gins, a school, three churches, and a population of 150. In 1894 the Caro Northern Railway was chartered to operate as a logging road between Mount Enterprise and Caro, in Nacogdoches County. The railroad, which connected Mount Enterprise with the Texas and New Orleans Railroad, came to within a mile of Mount Enterprise and the town then moved to the railroad. The city is home to multiple unincorporated communities and is served by Mount Enterprise Independent School District, a rural 2A school that serves approximately 400 students.
Step Into Oilfield History Located on the Kilgore College Campus
1301 S. Henderson Blvd. Kilgore, Texas 75662
(903) 983-8295 easttexasoilmuseum.kilgore.edu Open Wednesday-Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
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NEW LONDON
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ew London, a small community in Rusk County, is home to around 1,000 people and like most towns in East Texas, is rich in history. Originally known as “London,” this city grew as East Texas became crowded with oilfield workers and their families. However, as the U.S. Post Office had already established a station at London in Kimble County, the town changed its name to “New London” in 1931. The City of New London is served by the West Rusk Independent School District. The city is known for its history and tragedy of the worst school explosion in history on March 18, 1937 where 294 people were killed. As a result of the disaster, Texas passed a law requiring natural gas to have an odor.
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The London Museum is dedicated to all those who died in 1937 and to those who survived that fateful day. The museum is housed in the historic McConnico’s Drugstore building that once served the students of the London School. Most of the exhibits tell the story of the explosion using items donated by the families of victims. The museum features a variety of artifacts from the London School and 1930’s, including letter jackets, the flag that flew over the school the day of the explosion, school furniture and more. The museum’s tearoom features an old time soda fountain. For more information, call 903895-4602 or visit www.newlondonschool.org.
CROSS RV PARK
Daily, Weekly, Monthly Rates ~ Pull-Thru Shaded Spaces with full hookups ~ WiFi Connection ~ Surveillance Cameras ~ 30 and 50 amps ~ Showers and Laundry
1500 Lake Forest Parkway • Henderson, Texas Toll Free 866-650-5529 www.visithendersontx.com tourism@hendersontx.us
903-854-2997
202 Briarwood • Henderson, TX 1.5 miles South on Hwy 79
www.crossrvpark.net Family Owned & Operated! 18 | TOURISM 2020-2021 | RUSK COUNTY MEDIA
View our videos at www.visithendersontx.com
GASTON MUSEUM
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he Gaston museum, an educational and historical museum, is in Joinerville, approximately 6 miles West of Henderson. The museum’s exhibit building gives visitors a glimpse of Life in the East Texas oilfield from the 1930s to 60s including memorabilia from the boom era. Family history and artifacts of the earliest rural school in the world in the 1930s, the original Dixie service station, and an original tent house complete with an escape encounter. The museum is open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM Friday and Saturday and by appointment year-round. For more information call 903 722-9016 or visit us at Facebook. com/Gastonmuseum or our website gastonmuseum.org
“Serving our community for over 90 years”
Visit Our Friendly Professionals For All You Banking Needs!
130 N Marshall • Henderson • 903-657-2577 www.hendersonfederal.com RUSK COUNTY MEDIA | TOURISM 2020-2021 | 19
“We are here, and we are ready to help. Always Texas Strong.” As community bankers, we acknowledge our responsibility to invest in the communities we serve with our time, talents, and financial resources so that Texas remains a vibrant place for families and businesses to grow and prosper.
Our call to serve has never been greater.
903-834-3161 115 East Henderson Street | Overton www.texasbankandtrust.com
TODD MEADOWS President, Overton NMLS #1152184
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rom beautif ul bouque delecta ts, in bed, andble candies, breakfa spa days st kisses thousan and hand-drawn to hugs and importantds of ways to celebracards, there are ever meet. woman any of us te the most will Today The day is her day, Mother dedicated love, the our first ’s Day. sleep andwoman who rockedtrue us to better withmade all of the booboos band-aid. a simple kiss and a Thank you gave us life to the women who ened to takeand often threat it away. threatfans and Our biggest sharpest ladies who critics, the cuddled dreams were us when our corners were scary and darken ed and wielded too much to handle wooden switches, spoons sass was and slippers when , too our For those much to take. with us that have gone beforeand those you. us, thank For teachin g us the right and differen moment wrong and showin ce between to flip g us the exact For pigtails a pancake, thank and you. financial bailouts braids and emotio adult, thank when we forget hownal and Mother’s you. to Day is no Greeks devoted new desses. Roman entire cultsconcept. Ancien t to “mothe s celebra of Hilaria r” godgod ted with . “Mothe the festival enced mother ring Sunday specifically, churches and ,” which referrefer not eventually tone and took on a motherhood became more Mother’s the founda Day tion for oursecular Photo Courtesy of David Luna/Kilgore The first celebrations. American Mother’s NOTHING ON THE SHELVES. As COVID-19 cases are confirmed occurre Day celebra tion closer to home, local retailers’ shelves are bare as consumers rush Jarvis, d in 1908 when Anna founder to buy household essentials, like toilet paper, causing temporary Mother’s of the modern Day, held for shortages of supplies and frustration. a memor her mother ial who had three years passed earlier. Jarvis campai gned for to have Mother years ’s Day register as a recogni ed and continu zed holiday to e her mother honor a peace activist and to set’s work as aside a See MOTH ER’S DAY | Page 10
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By Kent Mahoney THE HENDERSON NEWS
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3 suspects arrested, charged in Kilgore retailer bomb hoax
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SUBSCRIBE TODAY! CITY:
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Excess grass clippings, waste materials code violation if blown into city streets
First United group gather Methodist Courthouse ed for The Church Pastor Staff p hoto David by Dan lawn ThursdNational Day of Prayer Luckert ex hortsM oore ay. on the Rusk the County
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Understand Asian Gia ing the nt Hornet By Amber Lollar Senior Reporter
ouse for annual Tex S4 Party Ponies set up their “Ponies in the in Hende event sidered rson on April 26 Park” event Friday. With unicorn and pony a he reconBy Dan Moore traditio n. week later to continu rides, facepainting and craft time for theEditor kids e the In spite the event was a major success even with a & Publisher of COVID event After -19 the contin ued touch of rain. prayer planne cancele d County Judge Joel Hale munity d as many as previo usly annual Nation Aliyah Armstrong felt like aPrayer big girl onthe her solo from the event on gathere d comunicorn ride. the courtho al Day of on the courtho use lawn use Titus TeWell was sssuper proud of his face See PRAYE R | Page painting. 3 OBITU Ariel Davis was lost in thought as she loungedARIES Nonabeth at the Two Happy Brushes facepainting booth.Glass
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TYLER – The Northeast Texas Public Health District has received confirmation of three positive cases of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in Tyler. All three of the confirmed patients have a recent travel history outside of the United States. The test results were confirmed by the Public Health Lab of East Texas (PHLET). “All proper notification processes are being followed with our State Representatives and local officials and that proper procedures are being followed on the testing of cases,” said Dr. Jeff Levin,
This map from the CDC depicts all countries that are being affected by the COVID-19 virus.
NEWS
VOL. 92 NO. 16 © 2020
SPECIAL TO THE HENDERSON NEWS
The Rusk County Grand Jury met the first week of March and indicted 27 people on 31 charges of various unlawful activities. Thomas Theron Jimerson – Driving while intoxicated Brandon Clifford Harmon – Possession of a controlled substance of less than one gram. Kevion Quijuan Freeney – Possession of a controlled substance of more than one gram, but less that four grams See GRAND JURY, Page 3
goals erer of my “One ing to Hendtro Me com upon s to bring st censon wa into the 21 gy. ” h olo Churc with techn tury
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NET HEALTH confirms Coronavirus Cases in Smith County
FROM HENDERSON NEWS STAFF REPORTS
Crime stats markedly lower in February
THE HEN
$1.50
COVID-19 sparks shutdowns locally
er LollaNEWS the families) and have begun assessby Amber Lollar By AmbERSON The response to the Coronavirus ments,” she said. “We have shutdown, THE HENDERSON NEWS ines HEND THE has been varied and widespread both and we are requesting not to have visiquarant , a ders on the national level and the local tors. We have talked to residents and has ordered bor Fromed county rmation level. talked to responsible parties. They are Overall crime dropped for the info e to closof mis . The local response has already supportive.” masses month of February M oor with a sharp spike Dan to theto burglary and a wave the area guided as their begun with the lockdown procedures in events to by related swept the misal media amount See COVID-19, Page 3 istry f Pho put into play late last week. few rarely For on soci min reported Staf the ’s been rce, the At least three local nursing homes ng offenses. relyingnews sou tion that caused to bri and the UT-Health sponsored hospiPREPARING FAITH Of those offensgo-to e informa ted hasic in an rch chu pan Simple tal have put restrictions into place. of fals and crea ual es were one count and COMMUNITIES FOR COVID-19 by to virt time. guideshared stress Administrator Zach Allen of Henof sexual coercion, date ning man undue chaotic ings ofnational, derson Health and Rehab Center A briefing for religious leaders is tur one count ts ancingof sex- ok, already erstand e by rch, men ebo made a statement Thursday. Chu ualal distperformance SPECIAL TO misundset asid l govern ic and on Fac do this the soci Metro to “We have slowly ramped up effecby aami child, and ng live Soone THE HENDERSON NEWS obey lines and locamass pan ce ofl . son to der er stre year tive over night,” he said. “We are only ntia next of a child. state led to disappearan of now sexual assault in ord beenreport of Hen ices g of s esse for a us.”these going to let in medical staff. There lute have site have servincidences ch 15 item Details have not forof HENDERSON - The Rusk Counerin Pastor ual gath and ons blem ld. ed webpro out outing Mar ernor. e said, “We the abso a will be no visitation, and most of the Lead r to virt yet been released but will be further to sign but a ty Office of Emergency Managestuffs househo false noti d Gov e, Wik ing will offe ding not rede the food ation y ok Pho h families are taking it fine. We’re all in ment continues to monitor the stathe panickeof investigated oncecon the ce Wikion. greginformation has Pastore and our ic wass are turn r buil for everdispel Bru F ac ebo ts suc Church gat the d a list robeen this together.” de thei public. Tub are pos rche pandem To made le the ing age tus of the spread of the COVID-19 congre this drivedia ve, assu e compiledisturb ir chu day Met not insi lot whi ss You Autumn Leaves Administrator coronavirus on a daily basis. While this e- for serabo rnet Sun Officers received 793driv calls but ing and s acro n- during ile othe Moore NEWS ial me we’v nt and clar Wike the one the intermapark Dan N Wh in in numpeople atio Marla Sers echoed those previous local risk of infection is currently churche masses t rece e news andpolicies Soc the ERSO substantial Bruce h likedecrease in the vice, . a tor greg new info al sittingand side in their cars smaller con THE HEND comments. the mosof fals actual fusion. as ulating false Nation to to Pas very mucpeople or ed even doors for lementing its circ ing the ing stay ject be con of tidb See BRIEFING, Page 3 See CRIME, s with pro Page “We have (begun shutdown). At is now spread t the paring the the park3 es and their imp Accord g will ago tha pre of a trailer ple in urch erin s ficationheart of of Texas oss a-ch to close g for and is tion in gath ies year insteadflat-bed ing peo g the ations, meg at the e State ed acr some refusing searchin congreg lead false. ott Guard biliz brin 0 “Th ined.” in movcars butwill be a nt is team he will t at 10:3 Whileon are rs are to their Abb er be mo y. their there ship r a few quarant stateme Greg star ernati Ord , othe countr gath the This screena live wor ship thenice will up in or ministe ship ion cutive al Sering worse than ential housemun e mal wor hes to Easter. Govern with and wor The serv com com an ExeEssenti tocols still ic non-ess of the this Sunday ed to berches scra 12. serving packs,” Wik approac mus sermon. y day issued enting vities Pro Texas. minimize outside ing, it is go to pos cially April espe h Easters is sup leaves chumost Hol EasterSunday plan on munion ple Acti to e of implem Wit and re stat nded with peo e forebod use you t the viru n. This icle with By Kent Mahoney a.m. also pped com beca vices this t veh enti e is inte tact brate n mos Wike h mor sted “We wra days ever bees to cele ns. THE HENDERSON NEWS the nex e whe of peo for thedirectiv onal connds muc get arre 3 been tor, g prerch -Bruce it has for way all Christiathe tim ering many d Pas Chu usin y from ice hasch live This and pers this sou will not Y, Page Lea Metro bling year forEaster is est gath demic nolwat said. six feet awa. on rch serv ings . While ing. You CLARIT son KILGORE – Three people have been arrested larg 9 pan can tech link icle chu the r der ly of nd veh use the park Hen See hold distanc will e or and charged in an incident at the local Wal-Mart, Typicals have theiCOVIC-1 each drive-in to atte Tube or on icles ple in time a the social able ders at hom You according to information given The Henderson Churche with to stay All veh ten peo first se not later on South, for Hen Tho ch than be the y 79 style News Thursday morning. ple but forced case e3 be g lessThis will k County.ok or wat Pag of OEMbe theon Highwa will A non-descript black backpack with a sign alert-IN, drive-in r perto brin d not Man in Ruson Facebo athe es Pike first ogy. will DRIVE located Jam ergencysioner’s on was said Lea See their day (we This are held aming ders See HOAX, Page 3 Church, hold Sun stre hearing of EmCommis tings Hen nology,”now we will Metro tech and Easter lot. ing to (Officeent) the future mee protect com with Courtesy Photo side as they service r parking S tury Moore did not tive that online to d and agem upon ther buildchurch ) in thei goals 21st cenus a crea By DanERSON NEW KPD officers inspect a bag that was left in a decided to be attende the wea their the com nty HEND mitting e of my into the d gave ded THE 5 but inside Kilgore Wal-Mart aisle with a note claiming k Cou lic nee yone who ple to “On “Go April ering ChurchWike. pub of Rus ever d exam rma a bomb was stored inside. Info Metro Bruce it.” do thisstop gath lt most to the sioners set a goo h to nau e tor lic to r ed Wit clos mis ity. Pas Pub id Che and to use s wer ided Com be theirt- mun having ially planr they dec officesCounty would OEM cer Dav court open cou Init te afte Offi the this ting at the ce. the these to be tion ed pera ided way noti e was address the coo dec ld n mee her ed ld hav lic cou last opeuntil furt meeting explain s wou pub the mission house rsday’sthe Com District meeting that the wanted.comr return r Thu from so they -way the 8 tax ed in you to the d floo held ate if two a 201 ed S Moore mov filed ct deposit s rt room the Thirkeep in particip t be a not justnault S Moore By DanERSON NEW gros naif you and g,” Che e FROM HENDERSON ers Couroom on use to ancing “It mus Section 133.01. By DanERSON NEW sted 0 for l or be dire HEND the coro os maiNEWS adju . ication atin THE Sunshin n HEND Court courthosocial dist STAFF REPORTS unt ey will This code states: THE weeks and chaing mon rt that ts with ($150,00 ,400 e munrt particip after y in ope a g acco of thewith the ns. short pain s leav l Hal ckin . residen ,000 $1,200 ($2 for cou the coue were (A) It shall be unlawful for any person to weeks sparenc e was e atio a few more decade , locked che $75 get told step two ge Joe r thist said. ther tran All U.S In case citizens who live in the also Cityelig ofible Henoffic also pay- throw, drop, cast or deposit upon any street, mmend ay ther up to In just causedevent in sickness rds ) will s for ically ott’s temreco nty Jud ing ove Pike mee nesd unemme ers has are simply d. The r e3 Iron ch call n reco g Abb s derson forgotten or just don’t ses, ey have Cou er look nitely endacouples and inco of Wed virus any othe massive ines They 0 per chil for earnwill alley, sidewalk or any yard or premises, pubdefi E, Pag ried k whi and opeernor Gre meetingn meet“Aft bus know mon it is a code of as marviolation to blow excess grass lic or private, and filth of any kind, or cans, out Wee ples). $50 s said, om we recomm than death,closed ONLIN Gov to virtual mal ope rds. ding al lds and ering ing See e than paper, trash, paper containers, rubbish, botfor cou ition phasing sho meeting or other waste into city tmaterial e the courtro behind,cities, ilies nee clippings mor thre est from tings the norschool boaof the add star the gath issu distanc ed an ing me requ e mee than and ey will the but not t, fam down streets. the part tles or any other form of litter or waste matter. on and l lly agre ch ments those incofilers earn Page 3 men s on. the mon to mov rather enta ended rantees e tion less.” h discussi , ploy le is here goe s fina Now thatofmowing ve season re they (B) No person shall sweep into or deposit ay Mar ernm susp LUS any disgua n in thos at porarily to sing Frid 10 or r muc the list help withCongres on MU tion cityabo the go that Therefo sale for gov ernor atio charge into streets needs to be swept up of STI asta s. e in any storm sewer, gutter, street or other es Afte nalt To Stat not ings Gov s law particip resu ple the dev al See coro packag the a busines hold for peo the actu r The ting and or blown ulus to as the back into the yard whether you mow public places within the city the accumulation duct United on is h the mee o ss ter stim to help with wn your ownis yard open to acce suspensi Althoug d all othe of litter, as defined in Texas Health and Safety as vide in theor have someone do it for you. wanted to a o Cen 0 Act er kno lic s ic. re Exp well ricte 202 This ck n bett pub ting as S s. pandem is rest Mee Moo This is to keep any buildup of foreign waste Code 365.011, from any building, lot, public or the 27, ID-19 mai nd the che By DanERSON NEW ple meeting r sale to atte COV Open drains and private sidewalk or driveway. Persons owning that or litter from getting in the sewage sioners’ navirus peo ne or the le, enteshut HEND y Expo event. Commis coro ering of Texas THE virus. are told peop and of pho must that possibl causing any problems according s the City of or occupying property shall keep the sidewalk Youthayberry o, my roomto The We of thee. gath was ple as well consist tings nd you. your s behi Henderson Code of Ordinances Chapter ers County r Spr cern e little 133 in front of their premises free of litter. g peo sections in plac tings will se mee in a door y con ld brin the stat were also Rusk Jennife mission your cover, for will be y remain ual meencing. The e3 they ager the Comr Thursdaest wou across Virt Take the fury es. The how ancS, Pag man fere d 0 thei Southw e from NG stat con ut rme r whil h 26:2 tion as othe ed abo info al dist ly video .” during the Isaia MEETI over See that Associat the cern tice soci especialple OBITUARIES Court ren and s con ld prac ford meeting 10 peo Barbara Marie Adamson le sale cou k Her d to six feet than Blac requestefor a catt e3 ing of more Mack Donald Rossum E, Pag that the no had Center orms SUR Mable Alicia Williams Johnson :2 CLO Expo t April 17. ion says s as Thunderst y, See Simon David Hayes lifie ciat PORT even asso s qua s and TODAY:Mostly cloud E RE The conbusinesl busines POLIC possible. near 76. still SEE PAGE 2 their essentia can ° high | with a an e they ly WEATHER | ° therefor
decide e ioners mmiss tings onlin ee ty Co Coun future m to hold
NEWS
VOL. 91 NO. 104 © 2020
n
SLOAN
Gov. Abbott of state reopmoves to Phase II ening plan
By Amber Just when Lollar was modera you though Senior Reporter t it not the your homes tely safe to leave beasts its homicidal In his here come warnings new nickthe confer ence,May 5 press Murder of the poorly named name portray Hornets. s. Greg Abbott Govern or This newly this monike The images reitera ted Asian introdu ced the guideli scenes from r creates are like mandagiant hornet, next phase nes for the Jumanji Hunger or The ern, rinia, is nativeor Vespa al reopening.of his graduto EastSouthern, creature Games. While This phase the with be dealing which we could Southeast Asia.and Mainland allows hair and nail salons can also The hornet and barbers stand to havoc on be found hops wreak in parts with some guidelinto open their gling bee the already strug- of Russia, Korea, doors population, es typical China, and phases. they are within all to clients See HORN Abbott announ proposed ET | Page ced that 3 Texas was third in the See PLAN | Page 3 TODAY: Sunny,
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with high near 76. a
TONIGHT: Mostly clear, with a low around 51.
SCRIPTUR E
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er childr en rise up and call her blessed.
903.657.2501 | WWW.THEHENDERSONNEWS.COM INSIDE oks list bo
ARIES OBITU
tes Lee Ga ice Melba n Cho ck Elto Kendri Bruce Tate John See
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7 ITY: ACTIV
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T: Most nd TONIGH a low arou with cloudy, 63.
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20 | TOURISM 2020-2021 | RUSK COUNTY MEDIA
TONIGHT:
Cloudy, with a low H|77° L|64° around 64. COMPLETE FORECAST PAGE 5
NEWS BRIEFS: 2
OPINION: 4
POLICE REPORT: 6
ACTIVITY :7
CLASSIFIE DS: 8 -9
THREE DAY
H|76° L|51°
FORECAST PG 2
ARRAIGNM ENTS: 9
Proverbs 31:28
OPINION: 4
POLICE REPO RT: 2
OVERTON
A
O
verton was laid out in 1873 at a site that was to be the junction of two railroad lines and was named for Frank Overton, an early settler who owned land in the area and donated some of it for a town site. A Baptist church was founded at the community in 1875, and Hubbard College was founded in 1876. In 1888 an Overton newspaper described the town as having “15 or more good businesses, two large hotels, numerous buildings, a fine chartered school, excellent society, pure air, good water,” and “a population of over 500.” Overton was primarily a farming center until oil was discovered in the area around 1930. The success of the East Texas oilfield led to the prosperity for Overton, bringing business, churches, schools and banks. More than 2,500 people now reside in Overton. The Overton-New London Visit the museum dedicated to keeping alive the memory of the 294 who died on March 18, 1937 in the world’s worst school disaster.
Chamber of Commerce hosts many events throughout the year, including a fall fest and Christmas Parade each year.
Downtown Henderson
COME WORSHIP WITH US! 207 West Main St. • Henderson, TX
903-657-1646 | www.thefbc.org
London Museum
10690 S. Main St. (St. Hwy. 42) (903) 895-4602 • New London, Tx Museum & Soda Fountain: Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Saturdays 10:00 am - 3:00 pm (March - August) Cafe: Mon - Fri 11:00 am to 2:00 pm Tickets $5.00 Adults • Children $3.00 Please call ahead for large groups. www.newlondonschool.org
The Cenotaph commemorates the New London School Explosion, displaying in granite all the names of children, teachers, staff and visitors who lost their lives.
M&M
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Vickie & Jose Luis Martinez |903.571.0609 | 408 Millville Dr. • Henderson RUSK COUNTY MEDIA | TOURISM 2020-2021 | 21
REKLAW
R
eklaw is a rural community at the junction of U.S. Highway 84 and Texas Highway 204, on the RuskCherokee County line. The area was first settled during the period of the Republic of Texas. Nearby Iron Mountain attracted miners, prospectors, and settlers in a brief iron rush in the 1860s and later in 1891. Several sawmills had been built in the vicinity prior to the Civil War, but a village did not begin to grow up until 1902, when the Texas and New Orleans Railroad was built through the area, and a town site was laid out on land owned by Margaret L. Walker. Local citizens wanted to name the new town after Walker, so when the name was already in use in Texas, they spelled it backwards. By 1914, Reklaw had two general stores, a sawmill, a blacksmith, and a population of 50. The population continued to grow and now stands at 381 residents.
22 | TOURISM 2020-2021 | RUSK COUNTY MEDIA
A
If you’re looking to spend some time at the lake then Lake Striker is the place to visit. Located in the deep piney woods, Lake Striker offers great amenities for a day, weekend or weeklong getaway. Lodge at the lake with a tent campsite rental, full RV hook ups, motel rooms or cabin rentals. The marina offers a fishing pier, a boat launch and a swimming area. The marina area also hosts a variety of outdoor games, including volleyball and horseshoes and if you’re interested in fishing, you’ll find largemouth bass, sand bass, catfish and crappie throughout the year. The Lake Striker Resort is also home to a restaurant, serving some East Texas favorites and a variety of seafood. The resort also offers many events including local bands and fireworks around the Fourth of July. For more information, call 903-854-2404 or visit www.lakestrikerresort.com.
TATUM
A
T
atum has a longstanding history in Rusk County. Located 21 miles northeast of Henderson the town settled in the 1840’s by Albert and Mary C. Tatum. The Tatum family established a plantation, which is now the City of Tatum. The city produced an abundance of resources that were a successful business enterprise. In 1882, after the Santa Fe Railroad passed through Tatum on the way from Longview to Beaumont, the place became a boomtown. Hotels were built, mercantile businesses thrived and farmers and sawmills could easily get their goods to the higher priced markets. Tatum saw disaster in the early 1900s and World War I and II affected the community tremendously with many families not returning to the area after the war. Oil and gas was later discovered in the area and Martin Creek Lake was built in the early 1970s when the Texas Utilities Company moved to Tatum. Tatum continues to hold onto its charm with the spirit of its early settlers. The town houses more than 1,300 and is home to the Tatum Eagles and a portion of the town is served by Beckville Independent School District. The town is home to unique shops, restaurants and the Pecan Pie Festival every April. Martin Creek Lake State Park is located four miles southeast of Tatum and was deeded to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department by Texas Utilities. Since its public opening in 1976, the park is known for its fishing, camping, wildlife observation and photography. The park is a popular campsite and a great place for the whole family. Activities in the park include picnicking, canoeing or boating, water skiing, swimming, backpacking, hiking and many other programs. During the winter months, the lake is home to many fishing tournaments. For more information, visit www.tpwd.texas. gov.
Tatum is looking to the future and holding on to the past. Tatum Pecan Pie Festival April 24, 2021 Tatum Wild Flower Trail April 15 – May 31, 2021 Tatum Jingle Bell Bop & Shop December 12, 2020
Martin Creek Lake State Park
Visit: tatumtexas.com
Tatum, Texas 903-947-6403 RUSK COUNTY MEDIA | TOURISM 2020-2021 | 23