Originally called Grapevine because of the number of wild grapes in the area, Grapeland became the town's official name in 1873 when an application was made for a post office, and it was discovered that a Texas city named Grapevine already existed. Incorporated in 1924, the city is 12 miles north of Crockett in northern Houston County.

During World War II, peanuts were the primary agricultural product, as the hardy nut thrives in local soil. Although watermelons have become the city's primary agricultural product, peanuts are still celebrated in October with the annual Peanut Festival. Other events include a Gospel Festival, Bluegrass Festival and Christmas Festival.

Several parks provide recreation activities, including fishing, swimming and picnicking. Salmon Lake Park is the site of the annual Bluegrass Gospel Festival on Memorial Day weekend and the annual Bluegrass Festival on Labor Day Weekend. Open year-round, the park has RV hookups, along with cabin and pavilion rentals. www.salmonlakepark.com. 936/687-2594.