LASR.net Homepage




Menu

Henderson, Texas

Henderson was designated the seat of Rusk County in 1843 and enjoyed rapid growth during its first two decades, but a disastrous fire in 1860 destroyed most of the business houses. Oil was discovered in 1930, and now Henderson is an oil and agriculture commercial center and home of Texas Baptist Institute. Henderson is a Main Street City with walking tours of the historic downtown district available.

Attractions and Upcoming Events

Depot Museum and Children's Discovery Center

Restored 1901 Missouri Pacific RR depot houses museum of county history in old waiting room and office. Warehouse portion is hands-on learning center for children 3 to 11. On grounds is 1908 restored "Arnold Outhouse," first in state to receive historical marker. Ornate, gingerbread-style, "

Henderson, TX Museums

Rose Hill Ampitheater

Unique amphitheater is located in natural crater that is 60 feet deep and 300

Henderson, TX Amphitheaters

East Texas Discovery Well

In 1927, Columbus M. "Dad" Joiner believed there was oil in Rusk County. Joiner and an Oklahoma attorney and oil promoter had won and lost two fortunes in oil, and despite nearing age 70, he was beginning another search "without even the proverbial shoestring."

Henderson, TX Oil History

Harmony Hill Ghost Town

Eighteen miles northeast on Texas 43, The Harmony Hill Ghost Town was important trade center known as Nip and Tuck in 1850. Bypassed by railroads, the town declined, and in 1906

Henderson, TX Ghost Towns


Things to do near Henderson, TX

Nature Trails

Canyon Rim Trail is located off Hwy. 87 north of Burkeville. Various tree species and points of interest are identified, and ...

Charnwood Residential Historical District

Dating back to the 1860s, includes Tudor Revival, Classical Revival, Colonial, Craftsman, Queen Anne and Ranch-style homes. L...

Witness Park and Prayer Tower

A gift to the city from businessman Bo Pilgrim, the tower features four Paccard bells from France and a chapel that never clo...

Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden

Texas' largest azalea garden features more than 6,500 azaleas spread over eight forested acres. The garden is located south o...