Learn More About Carthage, Texas

Carthage, Texas is a unique community located in the east central part of the state, surrounded by woodlands and rich history.

Carthage is the county seat of Panola County, and contains several other villages, such as Gary, Beckville, and Henderson. These small towns combine to form the City of Carthage. This city has a rich agricultural history, as it is located in the center of a large cotton-growing region. The population of Carthage numbers just over 6,700 as of the 2019 census.

Interestingly, Carthage was named after the old Phoenician city of Carthage in North Africa. While no direct connection exists between the two locations, the citizens of Carthage embrace the similarities of their city's name with that of the ancient one, and it is often shaped into a symbol of pride.

In the early days of this Texas town, the most prevalent industry was oil production, as exploration and drilling began as early as 1935. This gave the city a financial boost that kept it prosperous well into the 21st century.

Carthage also has numerous sites of historical interest. The home of Dr. Nat E. Davis, which has been in operation since 1895, attracts visitors from all over the region. Meanwhile, the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame has recognized talents such as Randy Travis, Freddy Fender, Hank Williams, and others over the years. More recently, the Joe Ely Room features exhibits that explore the work of Texan singer-songwriter Joe Ely.

For those who'd rather spend their days in nature, the city is not without a lush landscape of its own. The recreationally-oriented Carthage Municipal Park covers 30 acres, with two adjoining baseball fields and walking trails. There is also the Jim Cochran Wildlife Refuge, located just a few miles from the city, which serves as a habitat for several species of waterfowl and birds.

In recent years, Carthage has grown to become a thriving, safe, and low-cost city for residents and visitors alike. With its historically-infused atmosphere, scenic parkland, and small-town hospitality, it's an ideal place to pause and reflect on simpler times.