Come celebrate this year’s Jefferson Historical Pilgrimage “75th Diamond Jubilee” and bring the family out for a ride on an antique narrow-gauge train along the Big Cypress Bayou in Jefferson, Texas. The train will depart on Saturday April 30, 2022 at 12:30 and 2:30, from the Historic Jefferson Railway’s Depot at 400 E. Austin.
Every train ride includes a stop at Diamond Don Gator Pit to view daily feedings of live alligators, with photo opportunities. Come see eight live gators jumping for their food.
Historic Jefferson Railway recreates the Golden Era of railroading aboard an antique gas-powered locomotive with narrated historical day trains. As you roll through the history laden Piney Woods, you’ll view a Confederate Powder Magazine and traverse the site of one of the oldest, historical towns in Texas, with historical ruins from the 1800’s. Learn about the unique ecology of the area and hear unique facts about the 75th Jefferson Historical Pilgrimage Tour of Homes.
There are many events and attractions in town from April 28 through May 1, 2022, including Diamond Bessie Murder Trial performances and lovingly restored historic home tours. There will be a parade downtown Jefferson at 10:00 AM on April 30, followed by Civil War Town Battle. There will also be a Plant Sale, Craft Fair and Sale, Heritage Quilt Exhibit and tours of the Jay Gould Railroad Car. The Civil War Battles on Big Cypress will take place on April 29, 30 and May 1. For information on Pilgrimage events, visit www.JeffersonPilgrimage.com. For Civil War re-enactment information, visit Battle on Big Cypress Facebook.
Bring your RV or tent camp at Diamond Don RV Park, just a short one mile from Jefferson, on the Big Cypress Bayou, keeping you close to the action. Beautiful wooded sites with lots of wildlife. Many of the RV sites have views of the Big Cypress Bayou. Free WIFI, showers, rest rooms and dump station. Launch your kayak or canoe right from the park. Enjoy fishing off the banks of the river. Re-enactors are welcome in the RV Park.
Jefferson is nestled deep in the Piney Woods of East Texas and seems frozen in time. It is a charming town and an elegant reminder of a bygone era. There are over a hundred buildings in the city with historical markers. Many historic homes offer bed and breakfast accommodations. Dozens of other historic buildings house museums, craft and antique shops and restaurants. Dine, Shop, Stay and Play. There is a lot to do in Jefferson!