Learn More About Van, Texas
Van, Texas is a small town in the Northeastern corner of the state, sitting on the banks of the Angelina River in Van Zandt County. Van is often called the "Friendly City" because of its welcoming atmosphere. The population of Van is just under 3,000 and the town has a rich history.
Van was founded in 1848 by a family of settlers, James and Nancy Elledge, who moved from Tennessee and named the town after their grandfather, Van Elledge. The town quickly grew and prospered due to the natural resources in the area. The abundance of timber and the good soil around the river made the area a great spot for farming and lumbering. The first post office was established in 1876 and Van became a railroad town two years later.
Van is home to several attractions today that harken back to its roots. One of the most popular attractions is the Eagle Nest visitors center, where visitors can learn about the many species of eagles that call Van home. The center also offers educational programs and tours of the nearby bald eagles nesting grounds.
For the outdoor enthusiast, Van offers plenty of outdoor activities, from boating and fishing on the nearby Angelina River and Lake Fork, to camping and hiking in the nearby state park. The town also hosts a number of events each year, including the Van Annual Awards Banquet, a parade on the Fourth of July, and the Summertime Boogie & Blues Music Festival.
Van, Texas is an idyllic small town located in the Northeastern corner of the state. With its rich history and abundance of things to do, it’s no wonder Van is known as the Friendly City. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure or a cultural experience, Van is a great destination.