General-

Name derives from the Indian word meaning "cow (or buffalo) creek."  Now seat of Ellis County, the town was once squarely on Chisholm Trail.  Waxahachie is notied for it's abundance of elaborate Victorian-style homes with "gingerbread" trim.  Several movies have been made in the city featuring it's old buildings an homes.  For a map of historic homes and buildings and where movies have been shot, visit the Chamber of Commerce, Mon. - Thurs., 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Fri. 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. 102 YMCA Dr., or call 972-938-9617.

Chautauqua Auditorium-

Built in 1904, rare survivor of the Chautauqua circuit that brought live talent for religious and cultural events to rural towns around the turn of the century.  With the advent of radio, Chautauqua waned and ended in the 1930's.   Today it is a site for city events, and the restored structure is on the National Register of Historic Places.  Situated in 55-acre Getzendaner Park on S. Grand Ave off W. Main.

Ellis County Courthouse-

Elaborate sturcture of red sandstone and granit, built in 1895 for then-lavish cost of $150,000.  Italian artisians were imported for the exterior stone carving.  (Recurring face said to be Mabel Frame, railroad telegraph operator with whom one sculptor became enamoured.)  Clock uses windup mechanism weighing 250 pounds; bell-striker weight exceeds 800 pounds. 

Ellis County Museum-

Historical artifacts, photos, household furnishings and toys depict history of the region.  In restored 19th-century building on courthouse square.   Open Tues. -Sat. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sun. 1-5 p.m. Closed Mondays.

Lakes-

Bardwell and Joe Pool.

Nicholas P. Sims Library-

Original structure built 1904, is classic example of Roman Doric architecture.  Gold leaf and Carrara marble used in interior; exterior features enameled brick, copper cornices and carved replica of the Creak torch of knowledge.   Contains over 33,000 volumes.  515 W. Main.

Scarborough Faire-

Springtime Renaissance fair features arts, crafts, foods, and medievil entertainment - wizards, jugglers, jesters, and puppet shows.  Costumes of royalty adn rascals, poets and peasants.  In rural setting eight weekends mid-Apr. through early June on F.M. 66, 1.6 mi. west of I-35E. Admission Fees.