General-

Like most Texas towns, Duncanville was established when the railroad came through.   In this case the Chicago, Texas and Mexican Central Railroad Company wanted to bu8ild a railroad from Dallas to Cleburne .  The year was 1881, and the original name was Duncan Switch. The name changed to Duncanville in 1882 when the post office was established.  Today you will find an entrepreneurial spirit and diverse economy in this Southwest Dallas County city.

Many parks provide recreation here for everything from picnics to sporting events.

Unique antique shops, arts and crafts stuff and boutiques are found within the downtown area.

Additional information on dining, events and accommodations may be obtained from the Duncanville Convention and Visitors Bureau at 972/ 780-5099.

Dallas Nature Center -

360 acre park in southwest Dallas county near Joe Pool Lake offers seven miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, a visitor center and gift shop.  Habitat for black-capped vireo and other birds, a variety of Texas mammals, reptiles, fish and bugs.   Mary Alice Perkins Bland Butterfly Garden attracts a variety of native   butterflies with wild flowers and reflecting pools.

Open daily 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.  Take I-20 to Mountain Creek Parkway and exit; south 2.5 miles to 7171 Mountain Creek  Parkway.  Telephone:  972/ 296-1955.

Hiking and Biking Trails -

Several trails are dotted throughout the city and nearby parks.  The Dallas Nature Center (above) offers six trails for hiking only  Lloyd Park at Joe Pool Lake features a 3.1 mile trail.  For information, 817/ 467-2104.  Boulder Park within the city features more than three miles than trails.  For information, call 972/ 556-0640.  Cedar Hill State Park is an 1,850-acre park on east shore of Joe Pool Lake amid rolling cedar-covered hills.  Camping, trailer facilities, picnicking, shelters, swimming, rest rooms and showers, hiking and fishing are all available. Although considered an urban park because of its location, the beauty of the woods makes it a popular destination for Dallas/Fort Worth residents. At night, the Metroplex skyline lights are reflected softly in the lake.  Cedar Hill has two trails, a 2.5 mile and a 7 mile course.  For information, call 972/ 556-0640.

International Museum of Cultures -

This museum reflects the work of an organization which creates written language for "hidden" peoples who have no written language.  The museum focuses on   life styles and cultures of these peoples, with artifacts and exhibits.  Open Tuesday - Friday  10 a.m. - 5 p.m.  Saturday and Sunday open 1:30 - 5 p.m.   7500 West Camp Wisdom road.