Learn More About Carthage, Texas

Carthage, Texas is an attractive city in Panola County, located in East Texas near the Louisiana border. It is a community rich in oil and cattle history, known as the "Gas Capital of the World," because of its involvement in the early days of the Texas Oil Boom.

The city of Carthage was founded in 1844 and named for ancient Carthage, the great North African commercial center. Originally a small trading post, the city was significantly modernized in 1930 when oil drilling began. Carthage soon became the county seat and a center for exploration, development and production of petroleum products. While the petroleum industry generate much of the economy, Carthage is still also an active center for ranching and dairying.

Today, Carthage’s city center is generally regarded as an historic district, with many of its more prominent structures constructed during its two decades of growth in the late thirties, forties, and fifties. The city’s downtown district is characterized by its numerous restored buildings, stores, cafés and restaurants.

Carthage is also home to a variety of recreational venues, including numerous golf courses and parks, as well as access to nearby lakes and rivers such as Lake Murvaul and the Sabine River. For those interested in sampling local culture, the Amphitheater in Carthage hosts several events including plays, musicals, concerts, and art programs throughout the year.

Carthage is a thriving city, home to numerous businesses and continuous economic growth. The city is also proud to be the birthplace of General Douglas MacArthur, and remembers him today with an annual celebration held in his honor. Whether for leisure, business, or just a history lesson, Carthage, Texas is definitely worth the visit.