Historical Marker

Texas Fruit Palace, Anderson County Fair

Historical marker location:
Palestine, Texas
( US 287, W. of SH 19, Anderson County Youth Livestock Pavilion)
Marker installed: 2012
Marker size: 27" x 42"

TEXAS FRUIT PALACE, ANDERSON COUNTY FAIR

SOON AFTER THE CIVIL WAR, COMMUNITIES SPONSORED COUNTYWIDE ACTIVITIES THAT FEATURED NEW FARMING EQUIPMENT, AND FROM THIS BEGINNING COUNTY FAIRS DEVELOPED. THE ANDERSON COUNTY FAIR, ESTABLISHED IN OCTOBER 1898, BECAME KNOWN AS THE TEXAS FRUIT PALACE BECAUSE OF THE NUMBER OF LOCAL ORCHARDS. ALTHOUGH FRONT STREET WAS THE ORIGINAL LOCATION OF THE ANDERSON COUNTY FAIR, OTHER LOCATIONS HAVE INCLUDED A HORSE TRACK AND THE COURTHOUSE SQUARE.

IN 1947, THE FAIR BOARD SIGNED AN AGREEMENT WITH THE CITY OF PALESTINE TO LEASE 13 ACRES NEAR U.S. HIGHWAY 79. THE ANDERSON COUNTY FAIR HAS ALWAYS FEATURED NEW FARM PRODUCTS, LOCAL FRUITS AND VEGETABLES, AND LIVESTOCK COMPETITIONS. DURING WORLD WAR II HOME CANNING AND VICTORY GARDENS BECAME THE FOCUS. IN THE 1950s, LARGE RANCHES DOMINATED THE LANDSCAPE AND CATTLE COMPETITIONS BECAME POPULAR. VOCATIONAL AGRICULTURE STUDENTS ENTERED THEIR LIVESTOCK IN COMPETITIONS WHICH BECAME THE HIGHLIGHT OF THE ANDERSON COUNTY FAIR AND DEVELOPED INTO THE YOUTH LIVESTOCK SHOW. ENTERTAINMENT AT THE FAIR FEATURED THE POPULAR CARNIVAL AND MUSICAL SHOW CALLED THE BILL HAMES SHOW AND PRESENTED POPULAR MUSICIANS LIKE ROY ACUFF, HANK WILLIAMS, AND THE DRIFTING COWBOYS.

ALTHOUGH THE FAIR IS NOW CLOSED, THE YOUTH LIVESTOCK SHOW CONTINUES TO BE HELD YEARLY ON HIGHWAY 287 NORTH. THE DEDICATION OF MANY INDIVIDUALS THROUGHOUT THE YEARS HAS BEEN CREDITED WITH THE SUCCESS OF THE ANDERSON COUNTY FAIR. THE YOUTH LIVESTOCK SHOW HAS SURVIVED FROM THE TEXAS FRUIT PALACE/ANDERSON COUNTY FAIR AND IS HELD YEARLY IN THE AREA ON LAND BELONGING TO THE RIDING AND ROPING CLUB.

(2012)

As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.

fairs and festivals
The cattle industry played a significant role in the development of Texas, with cowboys driving cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas during the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Texas random facts
Anderson County, located in eastern Texas, has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. The county was established in 1846 and was named after Kenneth L. Anderson, a veteran of the Texas Revolution. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Cherokee, before European settlers arrived.

The county's economy flourished with the arrival of immigrants from the United States and Europe, who established plantations and worked in the timber industry. The town of Palestine, the county seat, developed as a vibrant agricultural center, known for its cotton production. The construction of railroads in the late 19th century further boosted the county's economic growth. However, Anderson County also had its share of challenges.

Like many other areas of Texas, it witnessed tensions and conflicts during the American Civil War, with some residents supporting the Union and others the Confederacy. Reconstruction was a difficult period for the county, as it endured economic decline and political instability.
In the 20th century, Anderson County experienced significant changes and modernization. The discovery of oil reserves in the early 1930s brought economic prosperity to the region. The establishment of the Texas Department of Corrections in the county in 1849 also played a major role in shaping the county's history, as it became home to several state prisons and correctional facilities. Today, Anderson County is known for its diverse economy, including agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism.

The region's rich history is evident in its numerous historic sites and landmarks, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in Texas history and culture.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Anderson County, Texas.

  • 1836: Anderson County is established on March 24, 1836, as one of the original counties of the Republic of Texas.
  • 1838: The town of Palestine is established as the county seat of Anderson County.
  • 1861-1865: During the American Civil War, the county's economy is severely affected, and many locals serve in the Confederate Army.
  • Late 1800s: The arrival of the railroad in Palestine brings growth and development to Anderson County, making it an important transportation hub.
  • Early 1900s: The discovery of oil in the area leads to an economic boom, with various oil fields and refineries being established.
  • 1930-1940: The Great Depression and the drought of the 1930s bring significant challenges to Anderson County, leading to decreased economic activity and population decrease.
  • Late 20th century: Anderson County experiences shifts in its economy with the decline of the oil industry. Agriculture becomes an important sector, with the county known for its timber, poultry, and cattle production.
  • 2000s: Anderson County continues to strive for economic growth and development, focusing on diversified industries, including manufacturing, retail, and healthcare.