Jefferson, Texas City Guide
For over 20 years, Pamela Lanier's Jefferson, Texas Travel Guide has been your connection to Jefferson's tourism community with invaluable details on local attractions, restaurants, shopping, museums, history, outdoor recreation and more.
Jefferson History
Located on Big Cypress Bayou in Northeast Texas, Jefferson Texas resides in Marion County and was named for Thomas Jefferson. The port city was planned in 1841 by two men who saw its potential as the head of navigation. In 1845 when steamboats could reach Jefferson from New Orleans, the town began to grow. Jefferson was a steamboat port from 1845 until 1875, primarily shipping agricultural goods, with cotton being the most popular product. The town thrived during this time period, as culture and business converged, and the town’s Greek revival architecture resembled New Orleans’ style. In 1873 the water level of the Big Cypress Bayou decreased and Jefferson’s potential as a port town was threatened. At this time, railroads were also extended across Texas, further harming Jefferson’s position of prosperity and importance. Today, Jefferson’s mid-19th century homes and buildings remain, many renovated as elegant bed and breakfast inns. Jefferson, Texas draws visitors to its charming, historic town alive with horse-drawn carriages, quaint brick streets, unique shops, friendly locals, and inviting bed and breakfasts.
