County Seat

Rusk Is the County Seat and Largest Town in Cherokee County

Rusk, the county seat, is home to the courthouse, the Rusk State Hospital, and the east terminus of the Texas State Railroad.

Cherokee County History & Culture

Rusk was established by the Texas Legislature in 1846 and sits roughly 120 miles southeast of Dallas. The town was laid out on a grid with a central courthouse square following the Shelbyville plan. A two-room frame courthouse was contracted in 1847. Rusk had about 5,285 residents as of 2020.

Today Rusk's economy depends heavily on the Rusk State Hospital, two state prison units, and commercial services. The Texas State Railroad's Rusk terminal draws visitors. If you are moving to or buying property in Cherokee County, Rusk is where you will find the county courthouse, appraisal district, and most county offices.

Source to confirm: TSHA Handbook of Texas – Rusk, Texas

More Cherokee County notes

Property Tax Basics

One Office Appraises Your Property. Another Collects the Tax.

The Cherokee County Appraisal District sets your property value; separate taxing units bill and collect the tax.

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Homestead Exemption

Homestead Exemption Lowers Your Property Tax Bill

If your home is your main residence, you likely qualify for a homestead exemption that reduces the taxable value of your property.

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Ag & Timber Appraisal

Farmland and Timberland Can Qualify for a Lower Tax Value

Land used for farming, ranching, or timber production may be taxed on its productivity value rather than its market value, which is usually much lower.

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Septic Systems / OSSF

You Need a Permit Before Installing a Septic System

Most rural properties in Cherokee County rely on on-site sewage systems, and a permit is required before you build, alter, or repair one.

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