Region: Gulf Coast
"The Museum Capital of Texas." Settlement began when early French and Spanish
trappers and explorers established a trading post in the early 1800s. City dates
from 1824 when it was known as Tevis Bluff after Noah and Nancy Tevis—the first
settlers. In 1835, Henry Millard and partners bought the Tevis' property for a
planned town. Beaumont was the maiden name of Millard's wife. The First Congress
of the Republic of Texas granted a charter in 1838, and Beaumont was designated
as the seat for Jefferson County. The city came of age in 1901 with the
Spindletop oil gusher. It became a city of 30,000 within a month. Today, it is
an industrial giant, major port, agricultural center and home to Lamar
University.
A unique combination of two colorful cultures—the town's Texas heritage and
its bayou roots—make for what Cajuns call "lagniappe," which means a little
something extra.
The South Texas State Fair draws more than 600,000 visitors annually in the
spring and features a FFA and 4-H livestock, a livestock auction, live
entertainment, exhibits and carnival.
A number of entertainment options are available. Ford Park, on the western
edge of the city, includes an arena, exhibit hall, fairground, RV park, softball
complex and the largest amphitheater in Texas. 409/951-5400. Julie Rogers
Theatre hosts presentations by the Symphony of Southeast Texas, Beaumont Civic
Opera, the Beaumont Civic Ballet and the Beaumont Ballet Theatre. 765 Pearl St.
409/838-3435, 800/782-3081.
The St. Anthony Cathedral is modeled after St. Paul's Basilica in Rome.
Construction began soon after the 1901 oil boom. 700 Jefferson Drive. For
appointment: 409/833-6433.