General-

Van is in central Van Zandt County at the intersection of I-20 and Texas 110.  In 1894
Henry Vance established a post office and the name Van was chosen when the post named it for Vannie Tunell and postmaster Vance.  On October 14, 1929, oil was discovered under Jarman #1.  Van became a boom town and within 10 days of the discovery under Jarman #1  some 30 structures, some of them hotels, were built.   It still remains an oil related town; however, the hotels, the economy has shifted to more diversified industries, as well as agriculture.

For information on events, accommodations, and dining facilities, call the Van Area Chamber of Commerce at 903/ 963-5051.

Lakes -

Cedar Creek, Fork, Holbrook, and Palestine

Van Area Oil and Historical Museum -

The museum is in an old warehouse originally built in 1930 by the Pure Oil Co. to house oil field materials used in the development of the oil field.   All of the oil derricks in the Van field have disappeared; however, the museum obtained a derrick and relocated it on the grounds as a reminder of bygone days.   Displays include various types of oil related memorabilia as well as history on the area and city. 

Open Wednesday -Saturday 10 a.m. - noon, 1- 4 p.m.  Closed Thanksgiving Day,  Christmas, and New year's Day.  Located at Texas 16 and County Road 1501.

For information, call 903/ 963-5435