History & Heritage

The Pineywoods has certainly earned its nickname, “The Cradle of Texas.” And much of the Texas history that occurred here can be revisited by today’s travelers--at historical sites open to the public, at historical markers along Pineywoods byways, and inside the many institutions dedicated to preserving the East Texas past.

Museums
Pineywoods citizens are proud of their rich history--and proudly preserve and display it at regional museums.
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Historical Landmarks
A rebuilt fort, historic houses, municipal parks, and markers pinpointing historic locales pave the road back in time for history-buff travelers.
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Itineraries

Artisans, Architecture and Antiques

Today, Pineywoods arts and culture mix the down-home with the cutting edge--and testify to the region’s diverse mix of people and traditions.

Texas History Comes to Life

From “The Oldest Town in Texas” to the Pineywoods’ biggest city--the region's rich history abounds.

Get In Tune with Nature

A wealth of state parks, a national preserve and other sanctuaries offer a full menu of recreational options, from birding to boating.

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History & Heritage Spotlight

A Vintage Texas Experience

As someone once observed, “The past isn’t dead. It isn’t even past.” That’s certainly true of the Texas State Railroad--a shortline service that, established in 1881 and fully restored in 1976, is still shuttling passengers between Palestine, in Anderson County, and Rusk, in Cherokee County. Even before boarding the vintage steam-engine trains that ply the route, visitors are transported back to the 19th century by the Victorian-style depots at either end of the line. The stations are surrounded by beautifully landscaped parks that provide camping facilities, among other amenities. The 50-mile round trip takes four and a half hours.

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