Jacksonville, Texas
– Tomatoes, Trains, and Time.
Before it became a thriving East Texas town, the area now known as Jacksonville was first explored by Jackson Smith in 1838. Smith, a Republic of Texas soldier and scout, returned to the area in 1847 and set up a house and blacksmith shop near what was then called Gum Creek. He was soon joined by F.C. Hardgraves, James G. Earle, David Templeton, and other settlers, who helped establish a small but growing community.
By 1848, Smith was appointed as the first postmaster, officially giving Gum Creek its first postal service. Just two years later, in 1850, the town was renamed Jacksonville in honor of Smith. Under his guidance, the town was platted, and businesses, churches, homes, schools, and a hotel quickly followed. This marked the beginning of a new era, as the settlement laid the foundation for future growth.
The Railroad Reshapes the Town
In 1871, the International Railroad Company surveyed a route through the region, but their tracks bypassed the original townsite by about a mile. This led to a pivotal decision—most of the businesses and residents of what became known as Old Jacksonville relocated to the new townsite. Sarah Fry, a local landowner, sold 75 acres to the railroad under the condition that a depot would be built there. The railroad accepted, and the new Jacksonville flourished as a key transportation hub in East Texas.
The International Railroad Company platted the new town, ensuring space for schools, churches, and a public square at the heart of the community. In 1883, another railway, the Kansas & Gulf Shoreline Railroad, built narrow-gauge tracks through the public square. Though the tracks were later removed, their path remains visible as a depression through Hazel Tilton Park, a testament to the town’s enduring connection to the railroad era.
The Tomato Capital of the World
While railroads played a major role in Jacksonville’s economic development, agriculture also shaped its identity. The town gained national recognition for its tomato production, earning the title of “Tomato Capital of the World.” In the early 20th century, tomatoes were a major cash crop, and at one point, they were shipped by the thousands from the local rail depot.
The town celebrates this agricultural heritage every June with the annual Tomato Fest, which features parades, live music, a farmer’s market, and, of course, tomato-themed events. In 2010, Jacksonville made history when it set a Guinness World Record for the largest serving of salsa at the 26th annual Tomato Fest, further cementing its legacy as a center of tomato production.
The Public Square and Its Legacy
Jacksonville’s public square has been a focal point of the town since its creation in the 1870s. Over the decades, it has evolved with the needs of the community. By the early 1900s, a frame bandstand and a city water tower were added. In 1928, a World War I Doughboy statue was dedicated, honoring the sacrifices of local veterans. During the 1930s, New Deal projects brought additional improvements, including a stone bandstand and a public library, which later became the Vanishing Texana Museum.
While some of these structures have changed over time, the square remains a vibrant center for gatherings and public events. Today, it is known as Hazel Tilton Park, continuing to serve as a space where history and community intersect.
Present-Day Jacksonville
Modern Jacksonville is a blend of history, industry, and community spirit.
Agriculture, while still important, has been supplemented by manufacturing, education, and healthcare. The town is home to Jacksonville College, a two-year institution that has provided higher education opportunities since 1899.
Recreational opportunities abound, with Lake Jacksonville offering boating, fishing, and camping, making it a popular destination for both residents and visitors. The town also prides itself on its arts and culture scene, with festivals, performances, and historical exhibits bringing people together throughout the year.
Though much has changed since Jackson Smith first built his blacksmith shop in the 1840s, the town has remained a place where history is honored and progress is embraced. Whether through its railroad past, its agricultural fame, or its vibrant present, Jacksonville continues to be a cornerstone of East Texas heritage.
