General-

Established in 1895 in east central Jasper County. This small city is located on the Gulf, Colorado, and Santa Fe Railroad paths. As well as being at the terminus of the Jasper and Eastern Railroad.

Kirbyville was named after John Henry Kirby, who along with R.P. Allen, laid out the town site. John Henry Kirby was known as "Prince of the Pines", at one time producing more Southern Pine lumber than any man in the world!

Today, lumber is still the king, but agribusiness and tourism play an important role in the economy.

Kirbyville is only minutes away from the popular Texas lakes - Toledo Bend Reservoir, Sam Rayburn Reservoir, and B.A. Steinhagen lake. It's also right smack dab in the middle of national and state forests, as well as the Big Thicket National Preserve. Because of the abundance of trees, birding is a popular activity here.

Residents salute the forests with the popular Magnolia Festival each April.

For information on events, accommodations, and area attractions, contact the local chamber of commerce at 105 South Elizabeth St. Open Mon. - Fri. I p.m.; (409)423-5827.

Calaboose Museum-

Under the direction of the Kirbyville Area Heritage Society, this wonderful museum contains artifacts, information, and history of local significance. Housed in an old jail house built in 1910. Open Wed. - Fri. 10 a.m. p.m. At Elizabeth and Lavielle St.

Exotic Cat Refuge and Wildlife Orphanage-

Non-profit reserve offers refuge, assistance, and rehabilitation to rare and endangered exotic cats as well as other wildlife. It's a ,State and federally licensed orphanage for lions, tigers, leopards, cougars, bears, and wolves, to name a few. Shelter is normally open Tues. - Sun. afternoons, but it's best to call for reservations. From U.S. 96, head east on Main St. One block to Elizabeth St.; right on Elizabeth St. to Shaw Guy St.; turn left to the local orphanage. For reservations and information, call (409)423-4847. Admission.

Forests-

Angelina National Forest, Sabine National Forest, E.O. Seike State St.

Lakes-

Toledo Bend Reservoir, Sam Rayburn Reservoir, and B.A. Steinhagen Lake.