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.
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 DrivesOperated 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 HistoryCherokee County's first bank, established 1884, in 1865 building. Euclid St. and U.S. 69
Rusk, TX Historic Buildings175-acre scenic forest area of lofty pines. Dedicated as memorial to Governor Hogg, attractions include restored birthplace, picnic areas, museum and family cemetery. Two mi. northeast off U.S. 84.
Rusk, TX Historic ParksSee authentic Texas cheese made by hand. Tour the cheese plant to see artisans create Texas goat cheese and authentic Mexican...
Bull Creek Trail parallels a clear, spring-fed stream among large magnolia, white oak, maple, holly, dogwood and other forest...
Non-profit reserve offers refuge and rehabilitation to endangered exotic cats and other wildlife. It's a state and federally ...
A re-created railroad depot serves as tourist information center for city and county attractions. Also has recreational maps ...
Museum in Jacksonville Public Library displays Cherokee County historical items. ...