Explore Cherokee County
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 MarkersTexas 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 HistoryJim Hogg Historic Park
175-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 ParksScenic Drives
Beautiful hill, forest and lake scenery both north and south on U.S. 69; also along F.M. 747 and F.M. 2138 (neither shown on most maps)
Jacksonville, TX Scenic DrivesScenic 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 DrivesDavy Crockett National Forest
Nearest entrance southwest 6 miles on Texas 21
Alto, TX National ForestsFootbridge 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 GardensCaddoan Mounds State Historic Site
A chief archaeological site in Texas. Park includes two ceremonial and one burial mound, visitor center with exhibits, interpretive trail. Two ceremonial mounds of 300 by 350
Alto, TX Historic SitesBonner Bank Building
Cherokee County's first bank, established 1884, in 1865 building. Euclid St. and U.S. 69
Rusk, TX Historic Buildings