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In 1927, Columbus M. "Dad" Joiner believed there was oil in Rusk County. Joiner and an Oklahoma attorney and oil promoter had won and lost two fortunes in oil, and despite nearing age 70, he was beginning another search "without even the proverbial shoestring." With inferior equipment, he drilled his first well on Daisy Bradford's land, about six miles from Henderson to a depth of 1,098 feet before junking the site. His second attempt was also unsuccessful. In January 1930, the third well was started by Joiner about 300 feet from his first attempt. On Sept. 3, 1930, the drill bit struck the Woodbine Sand and the core came up dripping with oil. On Oct. 3, 1930, the Daisy Bradford No. 3 blew in as a 300 barrel-a-day well at a depth of 3,59

Attractions and Upcoming Events


Depot Museum and Children's Discovery Center

Restored 1901 Missouri Pacific RR depot houses museum of county history in old waiting room and office. Warehouse portion is hands-on learning center for children 3 to 11. On grounds is 1908 restored "Arnold Outhouse," first in state to receive historical marker. Ornate, gingerbread-style, "

Henderson, TX Museums

Harmony Hill Ghost Town

Eighteen miles northeast on Texas 43, The Harmony Hill Ghost Town was important trade center known as Nip and Tuck in 1850. Bypassed by railroads, the town declined, and in 1906

Henderson, TX Ghost Towns

Rose Hill Ampitheater

Unique amphitheater is located in natural crater that is 60 feet deep and 300

Henderson, TX Amphitheaters

East Texas Discovery Well

In 1927, Columbus M. "Dad" Joiner believed there was oil in Rusk County. Joiner and an Oklahoma attorney and oil promoter had won and lost two fortunes in oil, and despite nearing age 70, he was beginning another search "without even the proverbial shoestring."

Henderson, TX Oil History

Things to do near Henderson, TX

Big Thicket National Preserve

Some 97,000 acres in twelve units comprise this preserve where the southwestern desert meets the eastern hardwood swamps and ...

Scenic Drives

Beautiful hill, forest and lake scenery both north and south on U.S. 69; also along F.M. 747 and F.M. 2138 (neither shown on ...

Cypress Valley Golf Club

Course Access: Semi-PrivateHoles: 18Reserve Advance Tee Times: Yes...

Historic Homes Tours

Many of city's fine old homes are open during annual Historical Pilgrimage, first weekend in May and Candlelight Tour first t...

Davy Crockett National Forest

Nearest entrance is about 11 miles west on Texas 94....