Jay Gould Railroad Car
Built in 1888 by the American Car & Foundry Company of St. Charles, Missouri, this was the private railway car of Jay Gould (1836-1892). A native of New York, Gould was a noted financier and the owner of numerous railroad companies, including the Union Pacific, The Missouri Pacific, the International & Great Northern, and The Texas Pacific. This car, named "Atlanta," remained in Gould family ownership until the 1930s.
Elaborately designed and elegantly furnished, the Atlanta features two observation rooms, four staterooms, two baths, a butler's pantry, kitchen, dining room, and office. Interior materials include mahogany and curly maple woodwork, silver bathroom accessories, and crystal light fixtures.
Following Jay Gould's death in 1892, the car was used by his son, George Jay Gould (president of the Texas and Pacific Railroad), and his wife, actress Edith Kingston. The car later was brought to Texas from St. Louis and used as a family residence during the 1930s East Texas oil boom. Purchased in 1953 by the Jessie Allen Wise Garden Club, it was moved to this site in 1954. It remains a focal point in Jefferson's heritage tourism industry
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.
The state flower of Texas is the bluebonnet. The flower blooms in the spring and is a common sight along the highways and in fields throughout the state.
The early settlement in Marion County was primarily driven by the sawmill industry, as many settlers arrived to exploit the vast pine forests in the area. Lumber became a major source of economic growth, leading to the establishment of several sawmills and the development of a thriving logging community. However, the decline of the timber industry in the early 20th century had a significant impact on the county's economy.
During the Civil War, Marion County was divided in its loyalties, with some residents supporting the Confederacy and others supporting the Union. The county saw several skirmishes between Confederate and Union forces, with the town of Jefferson acting as an important Confederate supply depot. After the war, many of the county's plantations were abandoned, and former slaves faced economic and social challenges.
In the 20th century, Marion County experienced a revival in its economy through the tourism industry. The historic town of Jefferson, with its well-preserved architecture and rich history, became a popular destination for visitors seeking to experience the charm of the Old South. Today, Marion County boasts a thriving tourism sector, attracting visitors with its historic sites, museums, festivals, and recreational activities in its beautiful natural surroundings.
Marion County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Marion County, Texas.
- 1837: Marion County is established by the Republic of Texas.
- 1841: Jefferson is chosen as the county seat.
- 1845: Texas becomes a state.
- 1861-1865: Marion County residents participate in the American Civil War.
- 1867: Marion County votes against secession from the United States.
- 1873: Texas and Pacific Railway completes a railroad line through the county.
- 1905: A new courthouse is built in Jefferson.
- 1937: The discovery of oil leads to an economic boom in the county.
- 1969: The Texas Historical Commission designates Jefferson as a National Historic Landmark.
- 1984: Jefferson is named the "Bed and Breakfast Capital of Texas."