December 7th, 2011 by carriagehouse
JEFFERSON’S OLD-FASHIONED CHRISTMAS PARADE
MONDAY, DECEMBER 12, 6:00 P.M.
Due to recent rain, Jefferson’s Christmas Parade has been rescheduled to MONDAY, DECEMBER 12, 6:00 p.m.
Join in on the fun as we celebrate Christmas as it was many years ago. For information regarding your participation in the parade contact:
Marion County Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Information Center
101 N. Polk
Jefferson, Texas 75657
November 27th, 2011 by carriagehouse
There is a nice rhythm to life here in Jefferson. Life is predictable and comfortable. For instance, you know that if it is the day after Thanksgiving all the town’s folk are going to gather around the gazebo at Lions Park and light the Enchanted Forest. That is why Friday night, I joined my friends and neighbors for the traditional kick off of the Christmas Season in Jefferson in Lions Park.
Every year the Historic Jefferson Foundation sells over a hundred Christmas trees to local businesses and townsfolk. These beautiful trees are all decorated and lit for the enjoyment of all in the Enchanted Forest in Lions Park. It is quite a spectacle to see that many lit Christmas Trees in one place decorated and twinkling in all of their glory. Just the very sight of all of these trees will turn any Scrooge into a Christmas Elf.
We all gather at dusk at Lions Park for the official Tree Lighting ceremony. Carols are sung, poems are read, and excerpts from plays are acted out. It is a jouyous and cozy celebration of Christmas in a small town. Everyone knows everyone and we all wish each other a Merry Christmas. If you have never made it to Jefferson during the holidays, then you are missing a wonderful small town (think Norman Rockwell) Christmas.
Here are the pictures from this year’s event. Enjoy!
November 26th, 2011 by carriagehouse
A Victorian Santa
JEFFERSON’S OLD-FASHIONED CHRISTMAS PARADE
MONDAY, DECEMBER 5, 6:00 P.M.
Jefferson’s Annual Christmas Parade will take one back to a simpler and more idyllic time Monday, December 5 at 6:00 p.m.
Lighted floats depicting nativity scenes, carolers, and bands are but a sample of the things to see. The evening’s special guest, Santa Claus, atop a fire truck will be making a list and checking it twice.
“Some of our guests said this was very touching as it evoked childhood memories of long ago”, Juanita Wakefield Chitwood, Executive Director, Marion County Chamber of Commerce.
Originating at Lion’s Park, the parades will weave its way along Henderson, Market, Austin, Polk and finish at Brookshire’s along Broadway.
Join in on the fun as we celebrate Christmas as it was many years ago.
November 26th, 2011 by carriagehouse
Put on Your Dancing Shoes
Put on your dancing shoes and celebrate New Year’s Eve at the Jefferson Carnegie Library, December 31, 2011 from 8:00 p.m. until 12:30 a.m. Bring your friends for a night of fun and dance to a great mix of all-time favorite tunes. There will be something for every taste and every age.
It’s always fun to dress up and enjoy friends, fun and laughter as you blast into the New Year. Door prizes, heavy hors d’oeuvres and set-ups will be available. BYOB.
The party will take place at the Jefferson Carnegie Library Ballroom, 301 W. Lafayette, Jefferson, Texas. Just pop in for a few minutes or plan to spend the evening. Tickets are $40 per person and seating is limited so advance purchase is recommended. Reserve your own table for 8-10 and decorate your own table to show your festive, creative style. Tickets are available at the library.
How competitive are you? Be sure to participate in the “Best Dance Couple” and “Best Dressed Jefferson Chic”competitions for fabulous trophies.
Many Americans first entered the worlds of information and imagination offered by reading when they walked through the front doors of a Carnegie library. One of 19th-century industrialist Andrew Carnegie’s many philanthropies, these libraries entertained and educated millions. Between 1886 and 1919, Carnegie’s donations of more than $40 million paid for 1,679 new library buildings in communities large and small across America. Jefferson’s library, built in 1907, is one of only five Carnegie Libraries serving its original function in Texas today.
The Library ballroom is a great place to dance in the New Year. The Original Greek Revival architecture was awarded a Texas Historical Commission plaque and a National Trust Register of Historical Places plaque.
Operating as a non-profit organization, the library board is committed to the preservation, maintenance and full usage of this historic landmark. The library depends on donations and the fund raising efforts of the Friends of the Jefferson Carnegie Library. All proceeds from the party will be used to support the library and to preserve a part of history.
Rock in a bright New Year with your family and friends at the Library’s New Year’s Eve party.
November 25th, 2011 by carriagehouse
Take to the Rails during the Daylight
Rail of Lights Christmas & New Year’s Train – Jefferson, Texas
In addition to the traditional evening trains, Historic Jefferson Railway has added a few day runs so that patrons can experience the beautiful ride along the Cypress Bayou River.
Day runs will be available on December 9, 12, 13 and 14 at 1:30 p.m. No reservations necessary – there will be plenty of room available.
Tickets are now on sale for the evening trains. As seating is limited, get your tickets early. Make this a holiday to remember aboard the Rail of Lights Christmas Train in Jefferson, Texas. The unforgettable ride aboard an old-fashioned steam train departs each Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Thanksgiving through December 24. Passengers will enjoy lighted scenes along the Cypress Bayou River as they hear about “Christmas Traditions Around the Globe”.
Also, ring in the New Year with the Rail of Lights New Year’s Train running on December 30 and 31st. This ride will feature the dropping of the ball in Times Square, complete with beverages, noisemakers and a fantastic fire works show on every train ride.
Spend the weekend in Jefferson and stay in the Cypress Bayou RV Park, just one mile from Jefferson. You can see lights on the river during the Christmas Trains and watch the New Year’s fireworks as the train comes through the park. Ask about our special holiday get-away pricing of $15 per night.
The excursions will take you by a life-size nativity scene, the German Markets, Jerusalem and the Angel Tree. Glimpse Christmas trees simply decorated reminiscent of the bare-limbed sourwood of the Appalachian Christmas Tree. View scenes representing Toyland, Alaska, San Francisco, China, Australia, New Orleans, and the Arizona Hopi Indian nation.
Enjoy an authentic life-sized 90-year old Christmas card as well as the Support Our Troops display featuring a post card sent by soldiers during World War II, and other favorites: the aluminum tree, reminiscent of the 1960’s; a whimsical Teddy Bear tree; and Charlie Brown’s forlorn little Christmas tree.
The decorated historic railroad depot captures the holiday spirit. The narrated tour on the day train will be a combination of Jefferson history and description of our Christmas scenes.
During the evening, visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus before boarding the train for the wonderful narrated tour, accompanied by a local vocalist, who will give patrons an opportunity to sing some of their favorite Christmas Carols as they create unique Christmas memories riding along the river.
Ticket Prices: Day train First Class $16.50; Coach Class $13.00. Evening Trains: First Class $21; Coach Class: $14.75 – $16.50. Lap children under 4 are free.
First Class is offered in a beautiful historic, heated, enclosed coach. If you are riding Coach Class, be sure to dress warmly and bring a blanket, as you will be riding in open cars. Seating is limited on the evening trains so purchase your tickets early. The easiest way to get tickets is to order online at www.RailofLights.com.
Jefferson is nestled deep in the Piney Woods of East Texas. It seems frozen in time and is an elegant reminder of a bygone era. The downtown area will be aglow with lights and greenery during the holiday season. You will want to make Jefferson and the Christmas Train a tradition for your whole family.
November 25th, 2011 by carriagehouse
MERCHANTS OPEN HOUSE
Friday, November 25, 2011
PARTICIPATING MERCHANTS:
Divas & Daisies
Lafayette St. Open 9:00am-6:00pm
20% off merchandise (903)665-3382
Refreshments served
Footsteps
116 N. Vale St. Open 9:00am-7:00pm (903)665-3338
Jefferson General Store
113 E. Austin St.
Open 9:00am-10:00pm (903)665-8481
Serving: Hot Apple Cider & Hot Chocolate
Jefferson Images/Blackburn’s Factory Outlet
108 E. Lafayette
Open 9:00am-7:00pm
Refreshments served (903)665-1128
Lafayette Gallery
123 N. Polk St. Open 10:00am-7:00pm
Refreshments served (903)665-9000
Made in the Shade
210 E. Austin St. Open 9:00am-7:00pm
20% off jewelry & Heaven to Earth Wreaths (903)665-8966
Refreshments served
Old Mill Antiques
210 E. Austin St. Open 9:00am-?
Discounts available (903)-665-8601
Texas Treasures
214 N. Polk St. Open ?-? (903)665-3757
Yesteryear Gift Shop
102 S. Polk St. 10:00am-? (903)665-8692
*Hours of operation subject to change without notice.
November 14th, 2011 by carriagehouse
Join Jefferson’s Tourism Director, Jeff Campbell, for an out and back walk for an “Across the Bayou View” of the Jefferson Confederate Powder Magazine. The structure is the only surviving powder magazine in Texas.
The walk is approximately 1/3 Mile in each direction.
Call 903-665-3733 for reservations/There is no charge.
No walks on, 11/25, 12/23 and 12/30
November 14th, 2011 by carriagehouse
Jefferson’s Ghost of Christmas Past Home Tours December 17, 2011
Tour Some of Jefferson’s Most Historic Homes and Visit with Residents from Jefferson’s Past such as Jeannie Epperson, Confederate Captain Joseph H. Pratt and I.E. Smith.
House of the Seasons (409 S Alley) Meet Jeannie Epperson, who lived in the House of the Seasons as a child. Tours are at 11 AM & 2 PM. For Reservations 903-665-8000. Tours $7.50
Singleton’s Virginia Cross (401 N Soda) Meet Confederate Captain Joseph H. Pratt. Tours are Noon & 1 PM. For Reservations, 903-665-3938- Tours $7.00
The Charles House (209 E Clarksville) Meet Industrialist I.E. Smith. Tours are at 3 PM & 6 PM. For Reservations 903-665-1773. Tours $5.00
While in Jefferson visit the city’s most haunted home, the Grove (405 Moseley). Tours are at 2 PM Saturday and 11 AM Sunday. For Reservations 903-665-8018. Tours $6.00 On Saturday, in the downtown area look for other historic Jefferson characters such as Kate Woods, Jesse Robinson, Bill Rose and Diamond Bessie as portrayed by the Riverport Ambassadors. Also enjoy the Historic Jefferson Ghost Walk on Friday and Saturday Evening. The walk meets at the corner of W Austin & North Vale. Ticket sales at 7:30 PM and the walk starts at 8:00 PM. Tours $12.00
October 18th, 2011 by carriagehouse
The House of the Seasons
Written by: Richard Collins, T.J. Kuenster, and Dan Kuenster
Illustrated by: Dan Kuenster
Published by: House of the Seasons
Sale price: $10.95
The House of the Seasons is pleased to announce the publication of its first historical photographic illustrated novel, The House of the Seasons. The novel was co-authored by Richard Collins, Dan Kuenster, and T.J. Kuenster.
Richard Collins, a Texas entrepreneur, is president of the House of the Seasons and CEO of istation, an interactive education company in Dallas. Dan Kuenster is an Emmy-award winning animator and the Executive Vice President of Art and Animation at istation. T. J. Kuenster is the Musical Director of the Glen Campbell Band and is a well-known songwriter. His credits include original songs on the soundtracks for the Don Bluth animated films All Dogs Go to Heaven and Rockadoodle.
The House of the Seasons centers around Jeannie Epperson, the daughter of the home’s builder, Benjamin Epperson, a prominent lawyer, entrepreneur, railroad man, and political leader.
The novel tells the haunting story of Jeannie’s childhood and her friendship with a ghost during the time of the Civil War. Soon after Jeannie’s birth, her mother dies. Jeannie’s Aunt Agatha, an old maid of twenty-four, comes to take care of the child. An old friend, Texas Ranger Edward Hamilton, leaves the Rangers to work for Mr. Epperson and falls in love with Agatha. The Civil War brings tragedy to the family, and it changes their lives.
The story is based on historical facts and characters. It weaves together several true events from the history of the home. One of the important characters in the book is Sadie, Jeannie’s cat, her loyal friend and companion. Sadie lives at the House of the Seasons today and is beloved by all the guests who visit the home.
The House of the Seasons is a wonderful story for children of all ages from 6 to 86. The authors will be in Jefferson the last two weekends in October to sign first editions of the novel. The book is on sale at Beauty and the Book, the House of the Seasons, and several locations around Jefferson, for $10.95.
October 14th, 2011 by carriagehouse
Tee it up for a Good Cause
13th Annual Jefferson Carnegie Library Golf Tournament
October 29, 2011
Hey golfers, tee it up for a good cause – the 13th Annual Jefferson Carnegie Library Golf Tournament to be held at Rusty Rail Golf Club in Jefferson Texas on October 29, 2011.
Call to reserve your spot now. Tournament is limited to 64 players. Contact Rusty Rail Golf Club at 903-665-7245.
Don’t golf? You can still support the Library by becoming a Hole Sponsor for $100. The sponsorship includes signage at your hole, recognition at the awards banquet and in the Jimplecute newspaper. Learn more by contacting the Library.
Registration will run from 7:00-8:00 a.m. and they will tee off promptly at 8:00 a.m. with a shotgun start. Four person teams. Don’t have a foursome? Don’t worry, they will pair you up with a team.
Take your best shot at a chance to win a 2012 Chevrolet Volt for the Hole-in-One on hole #2, sponsored by EXCEL Chevrolet of Jefferson. Hole-in-one prizes on three other par-three holes will also be given away. This year’s raffle will include a new Odyssey White Hot two-ball putter by Calloway. Many other great items will be in the raffle.
Registration is $45 per player which includes lunch by Stephen and Vanda Joseph of Riverport Bar-B-Que, chances on the hole-in-one contest, string game, free beverages and awards at the luncheon. Generally, the event wraps up by 1:00 p.m.
This event is the only annual fundraiser of the Friends of the Library that provides operating funds to the Library.
Just fore fun, come on out for a swinging good time.
Many Americans first entered the worlds of information and imagination offered by reading when they walked through the front doors of a Carnegie library. One of 19th-century industrialist Andrew Carnegie’s many philanthropies, these libraries entertained and educated millions. Between 1886 and 1919, Carnegie’s donations of more than $40 million paid for 1,679 new library buildings in communities large and small across America. Jefferson’s library, built in 1907, is one of only five Carnegie Libraries serving its original function in Texas today.
Operating as a non-profit organization, the library board is committed to the preservation, maintenance and full usage of this historic landmark. The library depends on donations and the fund raising efforts of the Friends of the Jefferson Carnegie Library. All proceeds from the golf tournament will be used to operate the library and to preserve a part of history.
