Last updated: 9/23/2008
514 N. High Street
Henderson, TX 75652
Monday - Friday
9 AM - 5 PM
Adults $3.00, Seniors $2.00, Children $1.00
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Susan Weaver
phone: 903-657-4303
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Viskie Armstrong
phone: 903-657-4303
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Martha Bundrick
phone:
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The Depot Museum interpretates Rusk County heritage and culture. The museum has eleven structure on four acres of land the the tell story of pioneers, treasure hunters and wild catters. The history dates from primative Caddo indians to 1947 formation of the Henderson Brick Plant. New this year will be opening of a restored cotton gin. The museum tells the economic history of the county with its cotton gin, sawmill and oil derrick.
The Depot Museum wishes to pursue its mission of preserving Rusk County's material and cultural heritage. Special emphasis is placed on preservation of folk arts.
The Depot Museum Complex chronicles the life and times of the people of Rusk County and contains eight historical structures, a children's hands-on Discovery Center, and picnic pavilion. Visitors can experience the county's history through a history video, displays of artifacts and models of social institutions of the past: school house, general mercantile, beauty shop, and country store. A tour of the grounds with its log cabin, barn, broom factory, syrup mill, doctor's office, depot, caboose, and dog trot home complete the image of life for our forefathers. Children can take a break in the Discvoery Center where 200 early childhood and historic activities await.
The Complex began in 1976 by the Depot Renovation/Restoration Committee. They worked three years to restore the 1901 Missouri-Pacific Depot and create an innovative learning center. The Depot Museum opened July 1, 1979. The Museum expanded beyond the Depot in 1982 with the addition of the 1841 Walling Cabin. The Rusk County Historical Commission has added a new historical structure every year or two. 1991 saw the acquisition of an acre and a half as well as the Arnold Building and the beginning of the Visitors Center expansion.
Each year, the Museum sponsors two special events as part of its Folk Life Preservation Project. The Heritage Syrup Festival on the second Saturday each November features demonstrations by 40 folk artists and ribbon cane syrup making re-enactment. Hay ride shuttles, bluegrass and folk music, and great food provide a day of old-time fun. Folk Art Day for school children is scheduled in May. The event targets 3rd grade students and provides enrichment to curriculum through folkart demonstration.
Artifacts from or used in Rusk County AD1100 to 1945. 2,000 items in the collection as well as eight historic restored structures.
Self guided tours, audio tours, guided tours, Workshop in folkarts, Heritage Syrup Festival, Folkart Day for school Kids, Grandparents Day, we offer assistance in planning folk art programs to area schools, curriculum on the web. Exhibitions in visitors center, Video of county history.
Access: General Public
Appointment required: Yes
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