This East Texas community blossomed with the discovery of oil in 1930. Today oil continues to be the prime attraction of this city, which also serves as a center for surrounding farms. Downtown, travelers will find many restored historic buildings thanks to the city’s participation in the Main Street preservation project.
Table of Contents
Attractions
Depot Museum and Children’s Discovery Center. This 1901 railroad depot now contains a hands-on learning center, historic structures, and local history displays. 514 N. High St.
Gaston Museum. Exhibits here chronicle the lives of the children who attended the former Gaston Independent School District, one of the largest and richest school districts of its time. Contains numerous exhibits on Henderson’s long boomtown history from the late 1920s to the early 1930s. 6558 Hwy. 64 West.
Howard Dickinson House. This 1855 house was one of the first brick homes in Rusk County and was often visited by Sam Houston. It’s open for guided group tours. 501 S. Main St.
Martin Creek Lake State Park. This state park, located about 20 miles northeast of Henderson offers camping, fishing, picnicking and boating. Several hiking trails beckon as well. Leashed dogs are allowed in the outdoor areas of the park. 9515 CR 2181D, Tatum.
Festivals
APRIL:
Antique Tractor Show. This two-day event features a vintage tractor parade and exhibitions of farm equipment, a tractor pull contest, and demonstrations of traditional farming techniques. Rusk County Expo Center, 3303 FM 13 W.
Wildflower Driving Tour. Continuing into early May, the glories of East Texas wildflowers are on display along scenic back roads. The City of Henderson furnishes maps of different driving itineraries around Rusk County.
OCTOBER:
Rusk County Rodeo. This PRCA event spans three days and features bull riding, calf roping and other rodeo events. Rusk County Expo Center, 3303 FM 13 W.
NOVEMBER:
Heritage Syrup Festival. The old tradition of making ribbon cane syrup is celebrated on the second Saturday of the month. The festival also includes the largest folk art show in East Texas as well as live entertainment, street dancing, a classic car show and children’s activities. Events are held at the Depot Museum and in the historic downtown area.
Map
For More Information
City of Henderson Tourism Department
Photo credit: Billy Hathorn (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0 or GFDL], via Wikimedia Commons
