HOMETOWN HENDERSON

Henderson, a Main Street Program participant since 1988, has revitalized its historic downtown to the tune of over eight million dollars to date. Projects in the Henderson historic district have included the construction of Heritage Square Park, the installation of period lampposts up and down Main Street (40 of them!), and 37 buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Named after J. Pickney Henderson, first governor of Texas, the city hosts a thriving Civic Theater, historical markers, historic homes, parks, an expo center, and the popular Depot Museum Complex. It's a far cry from humble beginnings as county seat in the mid-1800s when fire destroyed most of the commercial district and the county courthouse. Henderson rose from the ashes and more than a century later continues to make the old new again.

Festivals and celebrations take full advantage of the picturesque rejuvenation, including the annual Heritage Syrup Fest, a folk life study in the old fashion making of sugarcane syrup.

Beginning with Henderson as the center point of your Rusk County scenic tour, there are three Wildflower Trails itineraries which will provide a scenic and informative view of Rusk County and its historic past. For a free wildflower map and brochure, call toll-free at (866) 650-5529 or click here for more information.