Learn More About Jacksonville, Texas

Jacksonville, Texas, is a small city of just over 14,000 people located in Cherokee County and within a couple of hours' drive of Dallas and Tyler, and 90 miles northeast of Waco. Jacksonville was incorporated in 1882 and was named for President Andrew Jackson, the self-proclaimed "Hero of New Orleans". The town was renowned for its cotton production boom in the late 19th century, and continued the tradition of growing and shipping cotton until the 1950s.

Many of Jacksonville’s residents are employed in Tyler and Longview, while a few of the bigger companies in town include Jack in The Box, Top of Texas Diecutting, and Bell Industries. Additionally, the city is home to a number of professional and small businesses.

Jacksonville is renowned for its many active and ongoing recreational activities like outdoor sports and hiking trails. The city boasts four city parks and two government-owned recreational lakes. Residents and visitors alike can be found exploring the trails at Lake Jacksonville and Lake Striker, or fishing, swimming, and picnicking along the banks of the Little Sandy Creek. Hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails at Cherokee Trace, as well as kayaking and canoeing, are also popular in the area.

The local art scene has grown over the years and Jacksonville is now home to three art galleries and a popular theater which features many touring acts and local theater. The city also has an eclectic mix of shops and restaurants, including the popular Olde Town and Downtown Mall, which is home to a variety of eateries and local businesses.

Jacksonville is a thriving small city with plenty to offer both its residents and visitors. Its location in the heart of Texas, combined with its unique history and culture and abundance of recreational activities, make it a great place to live or visit.