LASR.net Homepage

Menu

Longview, Texas

Longview was settled as the seat of Gregg County in the early 1800s. There was a period of rapid development by planters from the Old South after 1850. Longview was founded on 100 acres purchased by the Southern Pacific Railroad for one gold dollar ($1) and named by railroad surveyors impressed by the long-distance view from the top of Rock Hill. Discovery of oil in 1930s more than tripled the population of 6,000.

Today Longview is a dynamic industrial center claiming over 200 manufacturing firms, and home of LeTourneau University.

Attractions and Upcoming Events

Gregg County Historical Museum

Exhibits devoted to local East Texas history, agriculture, communications, and military collections. Reproductions of early rooms: banker's office, parlor, kitchen, and interior of log cabin. Audiovisual historical program. Housed in historical-marked 1910

Longview, TX Museums

R. G. LeTourneau Museum

Houses many of famed industralist's patents and business artifacts; some of his early earth-moving equipment on display. On LeTourneau University campus in R.G. LeTourneau Memorial Student Building. Campus tours also available;

Longview, TX Museums

Lone Star Speedway

Sat. night races feature I.M.C.A. modifieds, dirt south late models, and hot stocks. A three-eighth mile, high bank clay oval track serves a challenging course for drivers. Races every Sat. night Mar. - Oct.; I-20 at F.M. 2207

Longview, TX Race Tracks

Heritage Plaza

Built on the site of the Gregg Hotel (1929), the second hotel to be owned and operated by Conrad Hilton. This historic park in the city's downtown district portrays Longview's first 100

Longview, TX Entertainment

Reo Palm Isle

A Longview landmark which opened in 1937 as the Palm Isle Club. Operated during WWII by owner of Mattie's Ballroom, another popular Big Band club of the era. Features top country/Western entertainment year-round. FM 1845 at Texas 31

Longview, TX Landmarks

Things to do near Longview, TX

Stairway to Texas' Stars

Features an extensive exhibit of law enforcement memorabilia from around the world. Badges, uniforms, and more from law enfor...

Heritage Village Museum

Texas' past preserved in unusual setting created by ceramist Clyde E. Gray, honored by the Texas Heritage Society for his eff...

Panola County Historical Jail Museum

Historical building; La Grone Family History Center; genealogical library, history of law enforcement in east Texas. N. Shelb...

Wright Patman Lake Boat Ramps

House of the Seasons

Built in 1872, this is an example of the transition period between Greek Revival and Victorian architecture. Most interesting...