Jefferson, Texas Travel Guide

Also see: Tyler

Over a century ago, Jefferson was known as the "Riverport to the Southwest." In the 1840s, the town was established as a port city on the Big Cypress Bayou, linking northeast Texas with Shreveport and the Red River. Steamers brought supplies and people to Jefferson and left stocked with the area's richest crop--cotton. In its peak, Jefferson was the second largest port city in the state.

When railroad baron Jay Gould offered to run track through the east Texas port town of Jefferson and was rebuffed more than a century ago, local folklore has it that Gould angrily scrawled in the register of the Excelsior House Hotel the words, "The End of Jefferson." And indeed, Jefferson was soon a port town no longer. The natural log dam on the Red River broke, draining water from Cypress Bayou and bringing an end to the city's steamboat commerce forever. The city's population dwindled from 35,000 to 3,000. Ironically, however, the historic town has returned to prominence in recent years, not despite---but precisely because of---its refusal to change with the times. The Excelsior House still stands after about 140 years of continuous operation and is surrounded by scores of well-preserved Greek Revival and Victorian homes.

Although it never returned to its earlier status, Jefferson now enjoys a new role: that of the tourist capital of East Texas. Tucked beneath tall pines and moss-draped cypress trees, this town now lets visitors step back in time to the heyday of river travel.

Jefferson is home to many bed and breakfast facilities and antiques shops.

Attractions:

Atalanta.Private rail car once owned by Jay Gould. Furnished with dining room and kitchen as well as staterooms. Open by tour. Location on West Austin Street across from the Excelsior House.

Caddo Lake State Park. This 480-acre park has offered activities for both day and overnight guests since the 1930s. The Visitors Center offers displays on the lake and its wildlife.

Excelsior House. Constructed in the 1850s, this hotel has been in continuous operation ever since. Built by the captain of the first steamboat to visit Jefferson, the hotel has seen many famous guests, including Oscar Wilde, Ulysses S. Grant, Rutherford B. Hayes, and Lady Bird Johnson. Guided tours are available. Located at 211 W. Austin St.

Freeman Plantation. This 1850 plantation house features period furnishings. It's open for guided tours.From Jefferson, 1 mile west on Rte. 49.

House of the Seasons. Erected in 1872, this house is decorated with period furnishings. Tours include a look at its dome and elaborate frescoes. Guided tours are available. Three suites are available in the carriage house behind the home. Located at 409 S. Alley.

Jefferson Historical Society Museum. The local history exhibits here include displays from the age of the steamboat. Four floors of displays include a tea set of the Czar of Russia from the 19th century.Located at 223 W. Austin St.

Lake o' the Pines. Fishing, boating, water skiing, and swimming are available at Lake o' the Pines. Camping is also an option. From Jefferson, 4 mi west on Rte. 49, then 4 mi west on FM 729, then 2 mi west on FM 726.

Scarlett O'Hardy's Gone with the Wind Museum. This private collection focuses on the Civil War period of Southern history. The museum includes a first edition of Margaret Mitchell's book, as well as items relating to the movie. Located at 408 Taylor St.

Where to Stay:

The Excelsior House

House of the Seasons

Maison-Bayou

McKay House

Pride House

Stillwater Inn

For More Information: Jefferson Chamber of Commerce

What's Happening Now...