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.
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 HistoryEighteen 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 TownsRestored 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 MuseumsUnique amphitheater is located in natural crater that is 60 feet deep and 300
Henderson, TX AmphitheatersFully accredited zoo shows a wide variety of animals and birds; known for its breeding programs for West African crowned cran...
Commemorating George William Strake, who brought in the 19,000-acre Conroe Oil Field in 1931 and became Houston's first oil m...
B.A. Steinhagen Lake comprises approximately 10,000 surface acres. The lake is officially listed at 13,800 surface acres, bu...
A historical marker identifies largest prisoner of war compound used for union troops west of the Mississippi. Replica of pri...
Texas 105 west through piney woods to Montgomery 15 miles; driving tour of historic homes dating back to 1850s....