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Rusk, Texas

Although only one family was living here in 1846, Rusk was chosen as the seat of Cherokee County. The town is named after Thomas Jefferson Rusk, a signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence. Rusk is also famed as the birthplace of James Stephen Hogg and Thomas Mitchell Campbell who were the first and second native-born Texans to serve as governor.

Attractions and Upcoming Events

Footbridge Garden Park

Wooded setting for 546-foot footbridge, said to be nation's longest, originally built 1861 for crossing valley during rainy season. Two blocks east of town square.

Rusk, TX Gardens

Texas State Railroad

Operated by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, antique steam engines power vintage coaches 25 miles to Palestine in the nation's longest, skinniest state park through dense East Texas forestlands. Reservations recommended. (In Texas call toll-free 1-800-442-8951.)

Rusk, TX Railroad History


Scenic Drive

Several routes near Rusk offer excellent woodland scenery: U.S. 69 both north and south; also F.M. 347, F.M. 747 (neither shown on most maps) that lead north from U.S. 84

Rusk, TX Scenic Drives

Old Rusk Penitentiary Bldg.

Central administration building of present Rusk State Hospital built as main building of former Rusk State Prison, 1878. Iron structures, including dome of State Capitol, fabricated here by prisoners. Ave. A and U.S. 69. Historical marker gives details.

Rusk, TX Historic Markers

Things to do near Rusk, TX

Martin Creek Lake Fishing

Martin Creek Lake has standing timber, several creek channels, some lily pads and plenty of shore line structure. Catfishing...

Bentwater Yacht & Country Club -Weiskopf

Course Access: PrivateHoles: 18Reserve Advance Tee Times: 7 days...

Exotic Cat Refuge & Wildlife Orphanage

Non-profit reserve offers refuge and rehabilitation to endangered exotic cats and other wildlife. It's a state and federally ...

Jim Hogg Historic Park

175-acre scenic forest area of lofty pines. Dedicated as memorial to Governor Hogg, attractions include restored birthplace, ...

Caddo Lake Boating

Caddo Lake offers visitors unlimited boating opportunities thanks to the many private and publicly owned marinas and boat ram...