General-
Founded 1839 on divide between Red and
Sulphur Rivers, became seat of Lamar County in 1844, settled
by diverse frontier society including Sam Beff Maxey (see below), West Point graduate, attorney and
Confederate general. Retired outlaw Frank James (brother of Jesse James)who clerked in a local
dry goods store. Home of John Chisum, who
became one of the West's foremost cattle barons. Notorious
frontier outlaw queen, Belle Starr, tended a
farm near town. The Paris Visitors and Convention Council at
1651 Clarksville St. will provide walking and driving tour
maps that include some 34 points of interest, including the
1920s downtown architecture and historic sites. The Council
also has information on private art, the Hayden Museum of
American Art, which is open by appointment. Stop by for
information, or call (903)784-2501, or call 1-800-PARIS TX (727-4789).
M. and Welma Aikin Archives -
Today a commercial/marketing
center for fertile agricultural region: home of Pads junior
College.
Replica of Senator Aikin's
Austin office; mementos of his 46-year career, much of which
was devoted to Texas education; also historical archives for
Delta, Fannin, Lamar, and Red River Counties. Open Mon. -
Thurs. 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., Fri. 8 a.m. - noon. In Mike Rheudasil
Learning Center, Paris junior College. For information, call
(903)784-9411.
Evergreen Cemetery-
Dating from 1866, large cemetery
contains more than 40,000 graves, including many early Texas
patriots. Many unusual, handsome carved headstones and
monuments. S. Church St. at Jefferson Rd. Lakes-Crook and Pat
Mayse.
 Sam Bell Maxey State Historic Structure-
Gem of Victorian architecture
built by Confederate General Maxey 1868, occupied by family
for almost a century. Restored and furnished as state
historic site. The Maxeys were avid gardeners; restoration
includes landscaped grounds and small Victorian garden in
original dimensions. Guided tours Wed. - Fri. by appointment;
Sat. Sun, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Closed Mon. & Tues. 812 S.
Church St.; admission. For information, (903)785-5716. |
