Why This Texas Town Deserves More Attention
In East Texas, roughly 18 miles from the Louisiana border, Jefferson is full of history, legends, and lore. It is an interesting stop on any road trip. With stories of Bigfoot, old-timey saloons, and swampy bayous to explore, the town of 1,900 has a surprisingly diverse number of attractions. If you want to explore a quirkier corner of Texas, consider Jefferson.
Bigfoot in Jefferson
As the Bigfoot Capital of Texas, Jefferson has a fascinating history tied to sightings of the elusive creature. One of the earliest recorded Bigfoot sightings in the town dates back over a century. In the 1924 Legends of Texas book by the Texas Folklore Society, "The Wild Woman of the Navidad" is depicted as a fast-moving, short-haired creature that avoided capture due to frightening the horses that pursued her. Adding to the intrigue, Craig Woolheater, head of the Texas Bigfoot Research Center, suggests that nearby Caddo Lake is a hotspot for Bigfoot activity today.
Visitors can also embark on a local adventure to find five hidden Bigfoot figures scattered throughout Jefferson, starting with one near the Port Jefferson History and Nature Center. Those who are interested in Bigfoot history and evidence may want to visit Jefferson in the fall during the annual Texas Bigfoot Conference, in which area experts review their most recent findings with the public.
Lakes Near Jefferson
Situated between Caddo Lake and Lake O' the Pines, Jefferson is popular with fishers and boaters. Caddo Lake, spanning 26,810 acres, is home to over 70 species of fish.
To take advantage of the lake’s abundant fish species, visitors can join a fishing charter with local experts, such as Caddo Lake Guide Service, who will guide visitors through the shallow, swampy, cypress-filled waters. Caddo Lake Bayou Tours offers another opportunity to explore the lake, guiding visitors through the bayous, rivers, and swamps to see bald cypress trees, Spanish moss, and native wildlife. Looking to explore the lake at your own pace? Consider renting a kayak from Captain Ron’s Swamp Tours and enjoy the serenity of the swamp while observing native wildlife on your own terms.
Lake O’ The Pines offers a different lake experience than Caddo Lake, sitting on 16,919 acres of land and surrounded by towering pines. Throughout the lake, visitors can find a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, white bass, spotted bass, catfish, sunfish, and crappie. One of the most popular ways to explore this lake is by kayak or canoe, which visitors can do by renting with Riverbend Outfitters or Lake O' The Pines Boat Rentals.
Historic Dining Spots
Many of Jefferson’s restaurants are styled to take travelers back in time. Auntie Skinner's Riverboat Club, housed in an 1850s building and in operation since 1983, offers classic American dishes and live music on weekends. McGarity's Restaurant & Saloon is another great spot for a burger or beer, featuring an old-timey environment with eclectic objects hanging from the ceiling. For even more live music, visitors can head to 1852 on Austin, which sits in a historic building from 1852, today hosting performances and comedy shows multiple nights a week. Those seeking a refined cocktail can visit the Haywood House Restaurant & Cocktail Bar, originally opened as a hotel in 1865 and later transformed into an upscale bar after serving as a history museum and private residence.
Historic Landmarks
Jefferson’s landmarks are reminiscent of American history. The Jay Gould Railroad Car is the perfect example, a luxurious, 19th-century parlor train car featuring four staterooms, a lounge, kitchen, dining room, ballroom, and butler’s pantry that visitors can tour. The Carnegie Library is another historic landmark, which Andrew Carnegie helped the town construct in 1907 in order to enhance Jefferon’s access to higher learning. Finally, those interested in architecture will appreciate the Howe Truss Lighted Bridge, built in 1879 with diagonal structural beams. Every evening, beginning at dusk, visitors can appreciate the bridge’s gorgeous LED light show that lasts until dawn.
For a more general overview of Jefferson’s history, be sure to visit the Jefferson Historical Society and Museum. Originally housed in the Carnegie Library in 1949, the museum relocated to the expansive Federal Building, allowing for more exhibits. Today, visitors can explore diverse collections, including pottery, trains, Civil War artifacts, African American heritage, 1800s living, and a Marshall’s office.
Final Thoughts
Jefferson may be small, but it has an activity for every type of traveler. The town offers everything from enjoying a peaceful day of fishing on the lake to visiting 19th-century preserved landmarks or the nationally renowned Carnegie Library. Jefferson is a great American town.
