Palestine, County seat in Anderson County, Texas.
Palestine serves as the county seat of Anderson County in East Texas and sits at an elevation of roughly 147 meters (482 feet) among wooded hills. The downtown consists of several blocks of brick buildings from the turn of the 20th century, including storefronts, offices, and a courthouse with a clock tower.
The settlement was founded in 1846 and grew into a railroad junction starting in the 1870s when several rail lines were built through the region. The Texas State Railroad connected the town to timber stands and mining districts, shaping its economic development well into the 20th century.
The name was chosen in 1846 by surveyor Daniel Parker after the biblical region and appears today in street names and local architecture. Visitors experience a Texas small-town rhythm where residents greet each other on sidewalks and shopkeepers remember regular customers by name.
Visitors can walk several blocks through the downtown area, which is quieter on weekends than weekdays. The local visitor center provides maps and information about guided tours through registered buildings and neighborhoods.
The Texas State Railroad runs steam and diesel trains through pine forests along a historic route originally built for prison transport and timber hauling. Themed rides include wine tastings on board and multi-course dinners served while traveling through the East Texas woods.
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