In the mid-1800s, Jefferson, Texas was the endpoint of a steamboat route extending northward from the Gulf. As the steamboats came up from New Orleans, they brought the customs and traditions of the Crescent City. Stories had been coming upriver about the lavish Mardi Gras celebrations for years, so in 1877, Jefferson decided to join in the fun and start its own festival. There were parades with floats, music of every kind, and it all culminated with lavish galas and balls. Newspapers from the day carried stories of the many parties thrown in town, and even the steamboats traveling the river hosted spectacular Mardi Gras events.
As the river to Jefferson fell with the removal of the log jam on the Red River, steamboat traffic could no longer reach the inland port. The city’s population fell, and Mardi Gras in the small town faded away.
The city was reborn in the 20th Century as a tourist destination and was even named “The Bed & Breakfast Capital of Texas” by the state legislature. In 1989 the Krewe of Hebe was formed with one of its goals being to re-establish a Mardi Gras celebration in Jefferson.
This year the Krewe of Hebe will celebrate its 32nd annual Mardi Gras. During the festival season, the Jefferson Historical Society & Museum will present a special exhibit: “Gowns, Crowns, and the Art of Mardi Gras.” A selection of past Mardi Gras gowns will be presented in the museum’s art gallery, with accompanying crowns and the official Mardi Gras posters from the respective years.
This special exhibit is included in the normal museum entrance fee, February 12 through March 1, 2022.
For information, contact the Museum at 903-665-2775. www.jeffersonmuseum.com.