The Depot Museum & History Center

The Depot Museum & History Center started in 1978 with a railroad depot and a vision. It has become a remarkable collection of preserved buildings and artifacts that represent life in early East Texas. It is a place to be seen and experienced first-hand.

  • Our Museum

    Inside the museum you will find the stories of Rusk County people, places, and events told with historical artifacts and other tangible objects of rural life.

    COME ON IN

  • Our Grounds

    What began with an old railroad depot now includes twelve historic structures and other physical embodiments of Rusk County life. Strolling the grounds will take you back to an earlier time.

    TAKE A WALK AROUND

  • Children's Discovery Center

    Our old railroad depot building originally held the entire museum. Now it is our Children’s Discovery Center, a place where kids can touch, feel, and see history. It is where they can make their own connections to the past. And. . . it is a great place for a birthday party.

    COME EXPLORE

  • Activities & Events

    Folklife events, days for grandparents and grandchildren to bond, and birthday parties in the depot offer access to the grounds and museum. The Syrup Festival in November is a time to hang out with thousands of your closest friends, and the syrup mill mule.

    COME OUT TO PLAY

  • Rusk Co. Historical Commission

    County historical commissions are authorized by state law to help preserve the cultural and historical heritage of Texas counties. In our county, they help manage our operations, fund our growth, and provide archival resources for research.

    LEARN MORE

  • Be a Part of History

    Our museum and our incredible collection of historical artifacts and buildings only exist today as a result of the donations and volunteer labor of people who care about Rusk County history. You can help by providing your time and financial support. How will you give?

    MAKE A DIFFERENCE