Mother Nature always provides a breathtaking display of elegance when the Redbuds add a bright pop of magenta to the winter landscape in the parks and forests throughout the area and soon to follow is the native dogwood, opening as a small green bud and pillowing out into a white clover shaped blossom. Distinguished by their blossoms, berries, and distinctive bark the dogwood tree is known as a symbol of renewal and new beginnings. Stories, myths, and cultural references surrounding this flowering tree, abound. The arrival of Spring and Palestine, Texas is the place to witness the splendor of the dogwood in full bloom. Home to the Texas Dogwood Trails Celebration, this annual celebration takes place March 18-April 3 and offers many ways to honor this symbolic and captivating flowering tree.

Hop Aboard a Vintage Train Ride

Texas State Railroad in the Spring

Take a step back in time while being a passenger aboard the scenic Texas State Railroad, the official railroad of Texas. From the moment you step on-board one of the handsomely refurbished train cars, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a simpler, more leisurely time where the distractions and annoyances of our modern world suddenly disappear. Breathe deep, order a drink and relax as you lose yourself on a four-hour, 25-mile rail journey through the Piney Woods of East Texas where history is just part of the journey.

Davey Dogwood Park and the Hidden Fairy Garden Trails

Fairy Garden Trails in Davey Dogwood Park

The Texas Dogwood Trails were born in 1938 when 2 friends noticed the early blooms marking the arrival of spring in the area and wrote to the local newspaper to invite visitors to come look at the unique landscape in full bloom. Once the word got out, the following year 20,000 visitors came for the blooming season. A few years later, a local citizen dedicated an exceptional plot of Dogwood trees to creating a Davey Dogwood Park.

Today, this 254-acre park offers a multitude of ways to take in the beauty of the park. Cruise the 5.5 miles of driving trails. Or better yet, if you’re looking to fully immerse yourself in the captivating dogwood tree, there are over 8 miles of unincorporated hiking and biking trails as well as scenic views and picnic areas. Visit March 18- May 31 to see how many of the hidden fairy gardens you can find tucked away along the Fairy Garden Trail amongst these magical paths.

Jam out at the Old Time Music & Dulcimer Festival

Old Time Music photo by Dana Goolsby

No road trip would be complete without a soundtrack and a stop at the Old Time Music & Dulcimer Festival. Celebrating its 19th year in Palestine, this lively festival showcases musicians playing everything from mountain dulcimers to fiddles and autoharps. Running March 24-26th, you’ll see the finest dulcimer and old-time music artists in the country and even have a chance to jam with some of them! Not quite there yet? Just kick back and enjoy the variety of daily live performances, workshops, and opportunities to meet and visit with master musicians, at this one-of-a-kind musical spectacular.

Shop Historic Palestine

Unique shopping throughout Palestine Main Street

Palestine Texas boasts an award-winning main street that is perfect for retail therapy. Antique lovers, start with Star of Texas Antiques which is considered one of the most premier antique stores in Texas. You can’t go wrong at Duncan Depot Antiques which offers, “primitive to retro and most everything in between.” Browse, shop, and support unique businesses such as Braly’s Ace Hardware known as, “One of the Coolest Hardware Stores on the Planet.” Enjoy a cup of coffee and satisfy your thirst for everything unique at Wells Creek Crossing and Cream & Coffee, an eclectic shop featuring sculptural and painted art and unique finds from brand new to shabby chic and rustic to vintage. Enjoy the fabulous shops offered in this culturally rich and vibrant downtown area.

Named by Texas Highways Magazine as a Top 40 Travel Destination, Palestine has historical sites, arts and cultural events, architectural gems, festivals, outdoor fun, and nightlife—all with loads of East Texas charm. Spring is here and Palestine, Texas is a must for those of you that wish to soak up the beauty of the dogwood tree and say goodbye to winter. For a day or a whole weekend, a trip to Palestine promises fun and rejuvenation for all. See everything that the season offers at visitpalestine.com.

Crisp morning air and the subtle transition from green to yellow, orange, and red announce autumn’s arrival in East Texas. While there are many ways you can enjoy the season in Texas’ gorgeous Pineywoods region, Palestine is the perfect place to appreciate fall’s beauty. Beyond exploring Davey Dogwood Park or fishing at a nearby lake, you can have a spooky experience at a historic Jailhouse, attend one-of-a-kind festivals, and more. Plan your perfect fall getaway by checking out these amazing autumn adventures in Palestine.

Award-Winning Bourbon and Whiskey

Dark, flavorful, and smooth like a flowing river, Tahwahkaro Distillery’s spirits are world-renowned. Now you can taste them at the source in Palestine. Recently relocated from Grapevine to its new location in a former Coors distribution center, Tahwahkaro crafts its bourbon and whiskey using corn from Valley View, rye from Denton, malts from Fort Worth, and water from Palestine. Try them out for yourself at the distillery’s tasting room or stop by to catch a show in the indoor/outdoor music space or relax on the patio. Make sure to set some time aside for a behind-the-scenes tour of the distillery, which is the perfect time to learn about the ins and outs of whiskey making.

Beautiful Fall Foliage in the Serene Davey Dogwood Park

Davey Dogwood Park isn’t only beautiful in the Spring when the Dogwoods are in full bloom. It’s the perfect place to take in all the beautiful fall colors that the woods of East Texas have to offer. The vibrant hues of amber, scarlet, and gold create a breathtaking tapestry among the trees. Strolling through the park’s trails, you can feel the stress melt away as you immerse yourself in nature’s beauty. The crisp, cool air and the rustling leaves provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation and reflection, making it an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Give yourself a scare at the Texas Jailhouse

The historic Anderson County Jail, also known as the Texas Jailhouse, is a notable landmark in Palestine, Texas. Built in 1931, this Art Deco-style building replaced an older jail from 1879. It has since become famous for its haunted house event, “Locked in Fear,” held annually in October. Visitors navigate through a labyrinth of cells, isolation tanks, and dark halls, experiencing a mix of dread and terror. The jail is reputedly haunted, with numerous paranormal investigations confirming ghostly activity. Jeremy Janz and Sonia Martinez, the current owners, have embraced its eerie reputation, hosting various events and tours that highlight the jail’s spooky history.

The Hottest Little Festival in Texas

Texas is known for its hot summers, but that’s not the kind of heat you’ll get at Palestine’s Hot Pepper Festival (Oct. 26). Instead of that afternoon sizzle, we’re talking about the kind of spice that’ll have your tastebuds feeling like they’re walking across hot coals. A true celebration of peppery heat, the festival kicks off with a parade starting at the Anderson County Courthouse and continues and live music all day long. There are even arts and crafts and a special play area for the kids. Whether you’re competing in an eating contest or you’re just taking in all the fun, you’ll see first-hand why this is the Hottest Little Festival in Texas.

Boot Stompin’ Texas Country Music

Music fans will also love the live music in Old Town nearly every weekend, as well as the Dogwood Jamboree, a Branson-style Country Music Show that takes place almost every month at the Palestine High School Auditorium. If you like good country music and clean, family-friendly comedy, this jamboree is right up your alley. Get tickets at the door for a 7:00 show and get ready for a night belly-aching laughs, sing-along songs, and all smiles.

Fall in Love with Palestine

Autumn’s cooler air and its many magnificent colors are reason enough to visit Palestine this fall, but the destination’s one-of-a-kind events make it even more welcoming. Discover all this East Texas town has to offer and plan your visit here.

“Downtown Palestine is worth saving as a grand memory in our minds forever. It’s full of great history, color, and great worth,” says Palestine Seventh-grader Madeline Moran.

Madeline was announced as the winner of the 2020 Save Texas History Essay Contest. Sponsored by the Texas General Land Office’s Save Texas History Program, Texas students were asked to answer the question, “What history in your community is worth saving?” Madeline selected historic downtown Palestine as the setting and focus of her essay. She writes that walking in downtown Palestine “makes you feel fuzzy, warm, and special because you are part of such of an astounding history-filled town.”

She details the history of Palestine and describes some of her favorite buildings, such as the Anderson County Courthouse, the Texas Jailhouse, and the Texas Theatre. Her teacher, Mr. Norris White, said he left the essay topics up for the students to decide. When asked why she chose downtown to focus on, Madeline said it’s where she loves to be. Her hope for this essay was to illustrate downtown so that people would want to see it for themselves.
Madeline attends UT Tyler University Academy in Palestine, Texas.

See below for a link to the complete essay:

If you find yourself in Palestine, Texas, craving something sweet, this list has got you covered!

1. Oxbow Bakery
   

Oxbow Bakery is a sweet spot in the Piney Woods of East Texas, where mile-high meringue and Southern heritage collide for the ultimate dessert. Located in a space built in the 1900’s, the Oxbow has been serving America’s favorite dessert since 2009 in Old Town Palestine. Owned and operated by a mother-son team, Oxbow Bakery has become synonymous with Palestine, driving foodies into Old Town, including Chef Floyd Cardoz, Bravo’s Top Chef Master. Pie lovers converge in the old mule barn turned bakery for a taste of over a dozen delectable flavors. Oxbow Bakery has been featured by Southern Living Magazine, Texas Monthly, Texas Highways Magazine and Taste of the South Magazine.

Thursday- Saturday 10am- 5pm

Contact (903) 723-5100

https://www.facebook.com/oxbowpies

2. EilenBerger Bakery

F. H. Eilenberger (1878 – 1959), a German immigrant, worked at bakeries in Galveston and Fort Worth before starting this company in 1898. Originally located on the corner of John and Oak streets, the operation was moved to this site in 1918. Eilenberger also lived here for several years. Although he sold the business to his two sons and his son-in-law in 1949, his baked bread continued to be distributed throughout East Texas until 1968. Today the bakery is noted for fruit and pecan cakes, which are produced from a family recipe and marketed worldwide.

Monday – Friday 7:00am – 3:00pm

Saturday 8:00am – 2:00pm

Contact (903) 729-0881

https://www.facebook.com/EilenbergerBakery

3. LuLu & Kakes: Cupcakery and Sweet Shoppe

Family owned and operated in historic downtown Palestine, specializing in fanciful and fun cupcakes and giving back to the local community. Their selection of sweets ranges from cupcakes, macrons, and ice cream to coffee and fruit-flavored drinks. Flavors change daily, so you’ll never know what you might find!

Monday & Saturday 10AM – 5PM

Tuesday – Friday 7:30AM – 5PM

Contact (903) 392-7917

https://www.facebook.com/LuLu.and.Kakes

4. Cream & Coffee

Cream & Coffee offers a full line of coffee and espresso drinks, smoothies, chai teas, hot tea’s, hot chocolate’s, creamsicles, and Italian sodas. Stop in at the Well Creek Crossing location for a scoop of gelato or bite to eat. In a hurry? The double drive-thru is designed to get you back on the road quickly.

Drive Thru Hours:

Monday- Friday 6am – 6pm & Saturday 7am – 4pm

Wells Creek Hours:

Monday – Saturday 8am – 8pm

https://www.facebook.com/Cream-Coffee-375752376178758

5. Jocelyn’s Donuts

Jocelyn’s Donuts is a family-owned business where sweet and savory collide serving donuts and burgers and burgers made with donuts! House specialties include the Holy Cow Burger and the Good Morning Burger!

Monday- Friday 3am – 3pm

Saturday- Sunday 3pm – 1pm

Contact (903) 723-8999

https://www.facebook.com/Jocelyns-Donuts-755639761207456

PennyLynn Webb | Jul 16, 2019

Gov. Greg Abbott has made the second Saturday in September Quanah Parker Day.

Quanah Parker, the son of Cynthia Ann Parker and Comanche Chief Peta Nocona, is an iconic historical figure. He was the last great chief of the Comanche people during the difficult transition from free ranging life to life on the reservation.

He was an influential negotiator with government agents, a prosperous cattle-rancher, and a vocal advocate of formal education for Native American children.

The bill, signed by Abbott on Jun 10, was sponsored by Justin Holland, a Texas representative from Rockwall.

“This will mean that it’ll be..promoted with schoolchildren,” said Ron Parker, Quanah’s great grandson. “Children will know about that day.”

One of the reasons for the honor, is Quanah has been identified as a founder of the official state bison herd of Texas at Caprock Canyons State Park. This free-ranging bison herd are the very last bison of the great Texas southern plains bisons herd.

Quanah is also a Texas historical figure with strong ties to Houston and Anderson counties and many families who live here today.

It started with John Parker’s son, Daniel. In 1832, Daniel Parker, a staunch theologian, received permission to settle in Texas. He organized a group of people as part of the Predestination Baptist Church. They left Illinois in July of 1833 in an ox-drawn wagon.

Daniel and the majority of his followers originally settled in Grimes County but later moved to near present-day Elkhart, where a replica of their Pilgrim Baptist Church stands. Other group members went farther west, near the Navasota River and present-day Groesbeck.

Elder John Parker and three of his sons, Silas, James and Benjamin, cleared land in December of 1833 for the construction of “Parker’s Fort.”

John Parker negotiated treaties with local Indians, who were subject to the Comanche.    Historians believe Parker thought the treaties applied to all Indians and would protect his family from any attack.

Comanche customs, however, regarding treaties made by subject tribes didn’t limit the Comanche as a raiding nation. When Comanche raiding season began, Fort Parker was one of many settlements subject to attack.

It was on May 19, 1836, when the Comanche Indians attacked the fort. The Comanche killed five settlers and captured another five, as 21 surviving settlers fled to what is now Palestine.

Cynthia Ann Parker remains the most famous of those Comanche captives. The Native Americans caught John Parker and his men in the open. They managed to fight a rear guard action for some of the escaping women and children, but soon they too retreated into the fort. The Indians attacked the fort and quickly overpowered and outnumbered defenders.

They killed John Parker, but took two of his grandchildren and three others alive.

Historical accounts state that Cynthia watched as the attackers raped other women, and the men tortured and killed the other residents. John Parker was the last to die. He was brutally tortured, scalped and then killed.

The five captives, including -year-old, blonde-hair, blue-eyed Cynthia Ann, the daughter of Silas M. Parker and her brother John Richard Parker whom the Indians led away into Comanche territory.

A rescue party formed to save the captives. During their pursuit of the Indians, a teenage girl escaped.. The others were eventually released in exchange for ransom. However, Cynthia remained with the Comanche for nearly 25 years.

John Richard Parker was ransomed back to his family after six years, but was unable to adapt to white society and returned to the Comanche.

Cynthia Ann received the name Nadua that translates as “Someone Found.” She was adopted in the Nocona band of the Comanche. Although she was beaten and abused at first, Cynthia Ann adopted to Indian ways and later married Chief Peta Nocona, with whom she had three children: Quanah, Peanuts (sometimes referred to as Pecos) and Topsana, which translates to “Prairie Flower.”

As a tribute to Nocona’s great affection to Cynthia, he never took another wife, although it was traditional for chieftains to do so.

In December of 1860, Cynthia Ann, 34, and Topsana were captured in the battle of Pease River. They were reunited with Cynthia’s white family. However, Cynthia did not want to stay and is said to have mourned, even running away once, wishing to return to her Comanche family and her sons. Topsana died of an illness in 1863. Heartbroken, Cynthia, stopped eating and died of influenza in Anderson County in 1870.

Several years after the Pease River battle and after the death of Nocona, Quanah was taken under the wing of Chief Wild Horse who taught him the ways of the Comanche warrior. History states that Quanah received considerable honor as a warrior and joined the Quahadi Comanche band, which grew to become the largest and most notorious of the Comanche. Quanah became the leader among the Quahadi Comanche and led the tribe successfully for many years.

After the Comanche tribes on the “Staked Plains” were defeated, Quanah led his group to surrender to the authorities after the battle of the Great Plains. Their food sources were depleted and they were under constant pressure from the army. They were forced to live on a reservation in Oklahoma territory.

The Quahadis were the very last tribe on the Staked Plains. Quanah was made the chief of all the Comanche tribes on the reservation, and proved to be a forceful and resourceful leader. Through investments, he became very wealthy.

After moving to the reservation, Quanah reached out to his white relatives from his mother’s family. Many of them rejected him at first. However, after much correspondence, they began to connect. He even visited the Anderson and Houston County area, staying with relatives for a few weeks to study the English and Western culture and eventually adopted the surname Parker.

Quanah forged a close relationship with several Texas cattlemen, like Charles Goodnight and the Burnett family. He worked with these men to build his own herds. He also worked to see that the tribe received “grass” payments for grazing rights on Comanche, Kiowa and Apache lands.

Quanah passed away on Feb. 23, 1911 at the age of 59 at his home, Star House, on the Comanche reservation. Before his death, he arranged for his mother and sister to be reburied in a plot next to his own at Post Oak Cemetery near Cache, Oklahoma. In 1957, due to an expansion of a missile base, the three were moved to the Fort Sill Military Cemetery in Oklahoma.

Old Fort Parker was reconstructed to pay tribute to the Parker family and the other pioneer families who journeyed to Texas from Crawford County, Illinois in 1833.

For directions to the Old pilgrim church, click here.

See the original article by the Palestine Herald Press at:  https://www.palestineherald.com/news/historical-figure-with-local-ties-gets-annual-holiday/article_de27b862-a832-11e9-ae03-efd438739365.html#tncms-source=article-nav-prev

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