Jefferson, Texas: A Historic Retreat

Have you ever wished you could take a trip back to the 19th Century? In Jefferson, Texas, a town of just over 2,200, you may find just what you have been looking for - no time machine necessary.

Located at the junction of U.S. Highway 59 and State Highway 49, Jefferson is nestled in the heart of the Caddo Lake area. This quaint community boasts over 50 bed and breakfast establishments, as well as many other historic accommodations. It is a commonplace event to spy a horse-drawn carriage touring through the brick streets, and according to some, even more common to witness occurrences of a paranormal nature.

The compact nature of downtown Jefferson allows visitors the benefit of parking their car upon arrival and avoiding the wheel until it is time to say goodbye. The town offers an abundance of gift and antique shops, museums, restaurants, and many seasonal events to satisfy the desires of even the fussiest of visitors.

Recreation

Have a zest for the paranormal? Spend the evening touring around the darkened streets of Jefferson on the Historic Jefferson Ghostwalk. Learn about the history of the town, its buildings, and its many colorful inhabitants - present and departed.

Take a ride on the ghost train of the Historic Jefferson Railway and listen to the conductor spin tales of the many ghosts of Big Cypress Bayou. Be sure to keep your eyes and ears open - you are not alone in these woods.

Visit historic Oakwood Cemetery and pay your respects to a notorious Texas outlaw, General Lee's favorite Confederate spy, Diamond Bessie, and the unknown lady whose headstone inscription is only "written in Heaven." Gates are locked at sundown.

See history come to life at the Jefferson Historical Museum, or pay a visit to Scarlett O'Hardy's "Gone with the Wind" Museum. If time permits, be sure to catch a show at the Ruth Lester Memorial Playhouse.

Dining

If you're a fan of the night life, be sure to visit Auntie Skinner's Riverboat Club, which features a full bar and live entertainment most Friday and Saturday nights. For one of the best hamburgers in Marion County, be sure to visit the Jefferson Old Fashioned Hamburger Store - served with a large side of southern hospitality. Have dinner by candlelight at Lamache's Italian restaurant, or bask in the colorful atmosphere of Liceas Mexican Restaurant. In the mood for a sweet confection? Visit Jefferson's House of Pies for a slice of one of their 16 varieties of pie.

Lodging

If you're in the mood for Victorian charm, check out The Jefferson Hotel. Built in 1851, each room has its own theme and decor, complete with antique furnishings. Be forewarned: there are many who credit this hotel as being one of the most haunted places in Texas. Years ago, a psychic reported that the hotel had seven nonpaying guests, all of who seem to enjoy creating a stir in the heart of any unsuspecting visitor.

The Excelsior House - also for those who are not faint of heart. A small list of some of the hotel's better known visitors: Ulysses S. Grant, Oscar Wilde, Rutherford B. Hayes, Lady Bird Johnson, and director Steven Spielberg, who, as some reports state, claimed that the hauntings in this hotel inspired him to write the script for "Poltergeist." Don't miss the Orange Blossom Muffins served daily at breakfast.

Special Events

Terror on the Bayou: October 12-14, 19-21, 26-28
Jefferson Rail of Lights: November 22 - January 1
25th Annual Christmas Candlelight Tour of Homes: December 1,6,7,8
20th Annual "Mardi Gras Upriver": February 1-3

For more information, please view the associated websites.