Jefferson, Texas is a sleepy East Texas town not far from Caddo Lake. The town is historically significant because it was once the largest port in Texas, even larger at the time then Houston. Michener devoted an interesting chapter to Jefferson in his book TEXAS. During the 1800’s as many as 35 riverboats a day brought goods from New Orleans and returned with Texas cotton. In addition, they brought along the celebration of Mardi Gras.
During a recent trip to Jefferson, I kept noticing Mardi Gras posters in many of the myriad curio, souvenir and antique shops (all dated, and collector’s items, I presume). I soon learned the town celebrates Mardi Gras every year the weekend before Fat Tuesday. It even has its own local krewe, the Krewe of Hebe.
The water level along the route to Jefferson is no longer deep enough to support large boat travel, but more than 100 buildings are still recognized as historically significant. Tourism is the main gig and the town reminds me of Branson, Missouri before it was converted by country music into a mega-tourist attraction. The same could happen someday to Jefferson and I heartily recommend you check it out before then. At least if you’re in the neighborhood.
http://www.ericwilder.com http://energyissues.blogharbor.com
No comments:
Post a Comment