Center, Texas
– With A Unique Courthouse Unlike Any Other.
Center, Texas, was settled in the 1840s, and founded in 1866, right after the Civil War, when settlers came looking for new opportunities in East Texas. Originally known as White Cottage, the town was later renamed to Center in 1866 to reflect its geographical location near the center of Shelby County. The name change aimed to emphasize the town’s role as the heart of county affairs and its new status as the county seat.
Center quickly grew into a vital hub for commerce and agriculture, a role it has maintained throughout its history.
A Unique Courthouse Unlike Any Other
One of the most striking features of Center is its Shelby County Courthouse. Built in 1885, this architectural marvel is unlike any other courthouse we have visited in Texas. The building’s design was inspired by Irish castles, a rarity in the state’s architectural landscape. With its turrets, spires, and steeply pitched roofs, the courthouse is a testament to the creativity of its architect, John Joseph Emmett Gibson, who designed a building that continues to captivate both locals and visitors.
The courthouse is still in use today and stands as a proud symbol of the town’s rich past. It’s the centerpiece of the historic downtown area, drawing visitors who marvel at its intricate stonework and medieval-inspired design. For a town of its size, Center’s courthouse is truly a standout, providing a distinctive visual identity and a tangible connection to its long history.
Festivals That Bring the Community Together
Center is known for its vibrant community events, and two of its most beloved festivals celebrate the town’s agricultural heritage.
Watermelon Festival
The Watermelon Festival is a summer highlight, attracting locals and visitors alike to indulge in East Texas’ favorite summertime fruit. Held annually in July, this event is a family-friendly celebration of all things watermelon, from seed-spitting contests to watermelon-themed treats. The festival often includes live music, parades, and games for children, providing a day of fun under the Texas sun.
East Texas Poultry Festival
Perhaps the largest and most well-known event in Center is the East Texas Poultry Festival. Held every fall, this festival celebrates the region’s thriving poultry industry, which has been a major economic driver for the area. The three-day event features a carnival, arts and crafts vendors, live entertainment, and, of course, plenty of delicious chicken dishes. It’s a festival that showcases the agricultural roots of Center while bringing the community together for a good time.
The festival also hosts the “Chicken Cooking Contest,” where local chefs compete to create the best poultry-based dish. Over the years, this event has become a key part of Center’s identity, drawing thousands of visitors who come to enjoy the food and festivities.
Farmers State Bank: A Piece of Living History
Another piece of history that remains alive and well in Center is the Farmers State Bank. Established in 1900, the bank has served the financial needs of the community for over a century. The bank’s headquarters, located in this historic downtown building, still operates as an active financial institution today.
Walking into Farmers State Bank feels like stepping back in time, with the classic brick facade and the historic interior design preserved throughout the years. Despite its vintage charm, the bank offers modern financial services, blending history with contemporary convenience. Its endurance as a financial institution is a testament to the stability and continuity of Center’s business landscape.
Historic Downtown: A Walk Through Time
Center’s downtown area is a testament to its rich history and small-town charm. Lined with buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the streets are filled with businesses that have been serving the community for generations.
The historic Farmers State Bank is just one example of the enduring institutions that continue to operate here. In addition to the bank, there are antique shops, boutiques, and local eateries, all housed in beautifully restored historic buildings.
Center, Texas Today
While Center’s history is a big part of its identity, the town is far from stuck in the past. Today, Center serves as a regional hub for agriculture and industry, with a strong focus on poultry farming and processing. It’s home to several large poultry plants that provide employment for many residents and contribute to the local economy.
The town’s population has steadily grown over the years, and the community continues to thrive thanks to its blend of history, culture, and economic opportunity. Despite its growth, Center maintains its small-town atmosphere, where people greet each other by name and community involvement is a way of life.
Center’s strategic location in East Texas also makes it a gateway to some of the region’s most beautiful natural landscapes. Just a short drive from town, visitors can explore the Sabine National Forest or take a trip to Toledo Bend Reservoir, one of the largest man-made lakes in the United States. These natural attractions provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, from hiking and birdwatching to fishing and boating.
Conclusion
Center, Texas, is a town that celebrates both its past and its present. With its unique courthouse, historic Farmers State Bank, and lively community festivals, Center offers a glimpse into a bygone era while continuing to move forward as a vital part of East Texas. Whether you’re drawn by its architectural wonders, its festivals, or its deep connection to Texas history, Center is a place where the past and present come together in ways that few other towns can match.
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