Learn More About Carthage, Texas
Carthage, Texas, is a small town located in central East Texas about 30 miles south of the state line of Texas and Louisiana. It is the seat of Panola County and has a population of about 6,500 people.
Carthage has been a center of commerce and business within the county since the 1830s. The city began as a refuge for the family of Thomas F. McKinney, who had fled Kentucky and settled there in 1837. Its name derives from the city in Tunisia that was built by the Carthaginians in the sixth and third centuries BC. Over the years, Carthage opened banks and commerce continued to prosper.
Today, the city serves as a hub for education, retail, commerce, industry, and hospitality. Its top employers are the Carthage ISD, along with businesses related to oil and gas production and fabrication. Tourism is also a major industry in the city, with the nearby Davey Dogwood Park bringing in thousands of visitors each year.
The main attractions in Carthage are the classic cars that are displayed along the historic downtown area. The most popular is the historic Avalon Theatre, which first opened in 1914. Other attractions include the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame, the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame Museum, and the Historic Carthage Courthouse.
Carthage is home to several events and festivals throughout the year, including the Texas Country Music Festival and the annual Panola County Fair. There is also the annual Carthage Crawfish Festival and the Texas Tomato Fest, both of which attract thousands of visitors each year.
Even though it is a small town, Carthage has a lot to offer. With its numerous attractions, festivals, retail outlets, and charming downtown area, Carthage is a great place to visit and live.