Historic Railroad

The Texas State Railroad Runs Through Cherokee County

The Texas State Railroad, originally built in 1893 to support a state prison and iron ore operations near Rusk, is now a heritage railway attraction.

Cherokee County History & Culture

Work on the Texas State Railroad started in 1893. Its purpose was to connect the state prison in Rusk with timber and iron ore work camps. By 1903, the line ran about 14 miles from Rusk toward present-day Maydelle. Convict labor built it. It helped drive Cherokee County's early industrial economy.

Today the railroad is a tourist and heritage attraction. It has been privately operated since 2007. The Rusk terminal sits near the Rusk State Hospital, which has long been a major employer in town. The railroad's story is tied directly to Cherokee County's timber and iron ore industries. Both shaped the region in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

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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