Overton, TX

Overton is a small town located in Rusk County, Texas, in the United States. It is named after Major Frank Overton, an early settler and landowner in the area. The history of Overton dates back to the 1860s when the first permanent settlers arrived in the region.

In the early years, Overton served as a stop on the Texas and Pacific Railway, which brought growth and development to the town. The railroad played a significant role in the town's economy, allowing for the transportation of goods and people to and from Overton. The town was officially incorporated in 1937.

Over the years, agriculture became a vital part of the local economy, and Overton became known for its lumber and cotton industries. Cotton gins and sawmills were established, contributing to the town's economic growth during the early 20th century.

In 1937, the discovery of the Henderson oilfield near Overton brought a significant change to the area. The oil industry brought wealth and prosperity to the town, attracting new businesses and residents. The discovery of oil in the region led to the establishment of numerous oil wells and refineries, further boosting the local economy.

While the oil industry provided economic opportunities, it also faced challenges in the form of boom and bust cycles. The fluctuations in oil prices and market demand led to periods of prosperity and hardship for the town.

Today, Overton remains a small, close-knit community, with a population of approximately 2,500 people. The town's economy has diversified over the years, with agriculture, retail, and services playing significant roles. Overton continues to honor its history through various local events and festivals, celebrating the town's heritage and culture.

Overall, the history of Overton, Texas, showcases the resilience and adaptability of its residents through the ups and downs of the oil industry, while maintaining a strong sense of community.

Overton Memorial Park

A scenic park featuring a playground, walking trails, picnic areas, and a fishing pond.

South Heritage Museum

A local history museum showcasing artifacts, photographs, and exhibits on the history of Overton and the surrounding area.

Tyler State Park

Located just a short drive away, this state park offers hiking trails, camping, fishing, and boating opportunities in a beautiful natural setting.

Lake Tyler

A popular spot for fishing, boating, and water sports, Lake Tyler is located nearby and offers scenic beauty and recreational activities.

East Texas Oil Museum

Located in nearby Kilgore, this museum provides a fascinating look into the history and impact of the East Texas oil boom.

Kilgore Rangerettes Museum

Also in Kilgore, this museum celebrates the Kilgore College Rangerettes, the world-famous precision dance team.

Caldwell Zoo

Located in Tyler, this zoo features a wide variety of animals from around the world, as well as interactive exhibits and educational programs.

Tyler Rose Garden

Known as The Rose Capital of the World, Tyler is home to the nation's largest municipal rose garden, which showcases over 38,000 rose bushes and is a beautiful spot for walking and picnicking.

Tyler Museum of Art

A top-notch art museum in Tyler, featuring rotating exhibitions of contemporary and historic art.

Tiger Creek Wildlife Refuge

A wildlife sanctuary in Tyler where visitors can see and learn about various big cats, including lions, tigers, and leopards.

The climate of Overton, Texas is classified as humid subtropical. Summers in Overton are typically hot and humid, with average high temperatures in the 90s°F (32-35°C) and high levels of humidity. Heatwaves are not uncommon, and temperatures can occasionally reach over 100°F (38°C).

Winters in Overton are generally mild, with average high temperatures in the 50s to 60s°F (10-15°C). Frost can occur during the coldest months of December and January, but snow is extremely rare.

Overton receives a moderate amount of rainfall throughout the year, with the wettest months being May through October. Thunderstorms are common during the summer months, and the area occasionally experiences severe weather, including tornadoes, although they are relatively infrequent.

Overall, Overton experiences a mild climate with relatively warm temperatures throughout the year and a good amount of rainfall.

Overton, Texas is a small town located in Rusk County. While it is a relatively small community, it has several distinct neighborhoods. Here are some of the different neighborhoods in Overton:

Downtown Overton

The heart of the town, downtown Overton is where you'll find local businesses, shops, and restaurants. It has a charming small-town atmosphere and is a popular gathering spot for community events.

West Overton

This neighborhood is located to the west of downtown Overton. It primarily consists of residential areas with a mixture of single-family homes and some apartment complexes. It offers a quieter, suburban lifestyle.

East Overton

Located to the east of downtown, this neighborhood is also predominantly residential. It features a mix of housing options, including older historic homes and newer developments. The area is known for its tree-lined streets and friendly community.

North Overton

Situated in the northern part of Overton, this neighborhood is more rural in nature. It is characterized by larger properties, including farms and ranches. North Overton offers a more secluded and peaceful living environment.

South Overton

This neighborhood is situated in the southern part of town. It is a mix of rural and suburban areas, with a blend of residential and agricultural properties. South Overton is known for its scenic landscapes and open spaces.

Overall, the different neighborhoods of Overton offer a range of living options to suit various preferences. Whether you prefer a bustling downtown atmosphere or a quieter rural setting, Overton has something to offer.