Civil War History

Camp Ford in Tyler was a major Civil War prisoner of war camp

During the Civil War, Camp Ford in Tyler held as many as 4,725 Union prisoners at its peak, making it the largest Confederate prison camp west of the Mississippi River.

Smith County History & Culture

Camp Ford operated as a Confederate prisoner of war camp in Tyler during the Civil War. At its peak it held 4,725 federal prisoners; approximately 6,000 were confined there in total over the camp's two-year existence. It was the largest Confederate POW camp west of the Mississippi River.

A historic site marks the location in Tyler today. The Texas Historical Commission recognizes Camp Ford as a significant Civil War site. If you are interested in Civil War history, it is one of the more notable sites in this part of Texas.

Source to confirm: Handbook of Texas — Smith County

More Smith County notes

Property Tax Basics

Two offices handle your property tax in Smith County

The Smith County Appraisal District sets your property value; a separate tax office collects what you owe.

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Homestead Exemption

File a homestead exemption to lower your Smith County tax bill

If your home is your primary residence, you can file a homestead exemption with Smith CAD to reduce the taxable value.

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Over-65 Exemption

Turning 65 freezes your school taxes in Smith County

Once you qualify for the over-65 homestead exemption, your school taxes cannot go higher than the amount you paid in your first qualifying year.

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Appraisal Protest

You can protest your property value in Smith County

If you think Smith CAD valued your property too high, you have the right to protest — and the deadline is printed on your appraisal notice.

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