Bullard, TX
County: Smith
History
Bullard is a small city located in Smith County, Texas, in the United States. It is situated about 15 miles south of Tyler, the county seat. The community of Bullard has a rich history dating back to the mid-19th century.
The area that would become Bullard was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Cherokee. European settlers arrived in the area in the 1840s. The town is named after John H. Bullard, a Confederate soldier who moved to the area after the American Civil War.
In 1881, the St. Louis Southwestern Railway established a line through the area, which led to significant growth and development. The railroad played a crucial role in the town's economy, attracting businesses and facilitating trade.
Bullard had its post office established in 1881, and the town was officially incorporated in 1961. Throughout its history, the city has remained an agricultural center, with cotton and corn being the dominant crops in the early years. Over time, the economy diversified, and today Bullard boasts a mix of farming, ranching, and various small businesses.
The community has also placed a strong emphasis on education. In 1908, Bullard Independent School District was established, and today it continues to serve as the primary education provider for the area. Over the years, the school district has grown and developed, offering a wide range of academic and extracurricular activities to its students.
Bullard is also known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. It is situated near the Neches River, and the surrounding area offers lakes, forests, and parks for residents and visitors to enjoy. The city hosts an annual festival called "Blast Over Bullard," which celebrates Independence Day and includes activities such as fireworks, live music, and a parade.
In recent years, Bullard has experienced population growth as people are attracted to its small-town charm and proximity to larger cities like Tyler. The city continues to evolve while maintaining its strong sense of community and preserving its historical roots.
Attractions
Lake Palestine
A popular lake for fishing, boating, and various water activities.
The Waterpark at the Villages
A large waterpark with slides, wave pools, lazy river, and other attractions.
Kiepersol Winery
A local winery that offers wine tastings, tours, and a restaurant.
Tiger Creek Wildlife Refuge
A non-profit wildlife sanctuary where visitors can see and learn about various wild cats and other animals.
Texas State Railroad
Located nearby in Palestine, this historic railroad offers scenic train rides through the East Texas piney woods.
Red 55 Winery
Another local winery that offers tastings, tours, and hosts events.
Lake Jacksonville
A smaller lake known for its scenic beauty and recreational activities like fishing, boating, and camping.
Tyler State Park
Located just a short drive away, this state park offers hiking trails, swimming, camping, and other outdoor activities.
Tyler Rose Garden
A beautiful rose garden in nearby Tyler, TX, with over 38,000 rose bushes and various other flowers.
Caldwell Zoo
Located in Tyler, this zoo houses over 3,400 animals from around the world.
These are just a few of the attractions in and around Bullard. There are also several parks, golf courses, shopping areas, and restaurants to explore in the area.
Climate
The climate of Bullard, TX is classified as humid subtropical. It experiences hot, humid summers and mild winters.
Summers in Bullard are long and hot, with average high temperatures in the mid to upper 90s Fahrenheit (35-37 degrees Celsius). Heatwaves are common, with temperatures occasionally exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius). The humidity can make the heat feel even more intense.
Winters in Bullard are mild compared to many other parts of the United States. Average high temperatures range from the low to mid-50s Fahrenheit (11-13 degrees Celsius) during the day. Overnight lows can occasionally drop below freezing, but significant snowfall is rare.
Spring and fall in Bullard tend to be transitional periods with more moderate temperatures. Spring begins with cooler temperatures in the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit (10-15 degrees Celsius) before gradually warming up. Fall starts with mild temperatures in the 70s Fahrenheit (low 20s Celsius) before gradually cooling.
Rainfall is fairly evenly spread throughout the year, with slightly higher amounts observed during the spring and fall. Thunderstorms can occur during the warmer months, bringing heavy rain, lightning, and occasional hail.
Overall, Bullard, TX has a typical southern climate characterized by hot summers, mild winters, and a moderate amount of rainfall spread throughout the year.
Neighborhoods
Bullard, Texas is a small town located in Smith County. While it may not have distinct neighborhoods like larger cities, there are a few areas that are noteworthy within Bullard.
Downtown Bullard
The heart of Bullard is its downtown area. It is a charming district with a small-town feel and features a variety of local businesses, shops, restaurants, and historic buildings.
Emerald Bay
One of the most well-known neighborhoods in Bullard is Emerald Bay. It is a gated community built around a private golf course and a beautiful lake. Emerald Bay offers an upscale living experience with luxurious homes and various amenities, including a clubhouse, tennis courts, swimming pool, and a marina.
The Woods
The Woods is another notable neighborhood within Bullard. Located just outside of downtown, it is a residential area characterized by large lots and mature trees. The neighborhood offers a peaceful and secluded environment for residents.
Eagles Bluff
Eagles Bluff is a prestigious gated community located on the shores of Lake Palestine. It is known for its stunning waterfront properties, golf course, and various recreational activities. The neighborhood provides a resort-like living experience with a clubhouse, swimming pools, tennis courts, and a private boat launch.
Country Living
Bullard also has several areas that provide a rural and country living experience. These areas feature larger plots of land, often with farms, ranches, and country estates. Residents in these neighborhoods enjoy the tranquility and spaciousness of rural living while still being a part of the Bullard community.
Overall, Bullard offers a mix of neighborhoods catering to different preferences and lifestyles. Whether you seek a downtown atmosphere, upscale gated communities, peaceful residential areas, or country living, Bullard has options to suit varying tastes.