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Palestine, TX

Frequently asked questions

Palestine, TX

Palestine is a city in and the seat of Anderson County in the U.S. state of Texas. It was named after Palestine, Illinois, by preacher Daniel Parker, who had migrated from that town. It is also contested that Micham Main named Palestine after his hometown, Palestine, Illinois when he and his family arrived here along with the Parker family and several others. 

The city had a 2020 U.S. census population of 18,544, making it the sixth-largest incorporated municipality in Northeast Texas by population. Palestine is a relatively small city located in the Piney Woods, equidistant from the major cities of Dallas, Houston, and Shreveport, Louisiana. 

It is notable for its natural environment and has a notable dogwood blooming season. It has 23 historical sites on the National Register of Historic Places and was the western terminus of the historic Texas State Railroad. Today this steam-and-diesel railroad museum operates tourist trains between Palestine and Rusk.

Palestine is located near the center of Anderson County at 31°45′29″N 95°38′19″W (31.757925, –95.638473). Several numbered highways converge on the city, including U.S. Highways 79, 84, and 287, plus Texas State Highways 19 and 155. Dallas is 110 miles (180 km) to the northwest, and Houston is 150 miles (240 km) to the south. Tyler is 47 miles (76 km) to the northeast. 

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 19.6 square miles (50.7 km2), of which 19.4 square miles (50.2 km2) are land and 0.19 square miles (0.5 km2), or 1.06%, is covered by water.

A trading post was established by Anglo-Americans here about 1843, and some settlers gathered around it. In 1846, the Texas Legislature created Palestine to serve as a seat for the newly established Anderson County. James R. Fulton, Johnston Shelton, and William Bigelow were hired by the first Anderson County commissioners to survey the surrounding land and lay out a town site. This consisted of a central courthouse square and the surrounding 24 blocks. The city was named after Palestine, Illinois, as suggested by Micham Main and Daniel Parker, a minister of Pilgrim Church who had migrated with the Main family and numerous other settlers from that town.

Palestine is home to a thriving healthcare sector, ensuring residents have access to quality medical services. The Palestine Regional Medical Center stands as a cornerstone in the community, providing comprehensive healthcare facilities. Explore the parks, facilities, and health and wellness programs offered by the Palestine Parks and Recreation Department. These spaces provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, sports, and picnicking. Join local fitness centers and gyms to participate in exercise programs, fitness classes, and strength training. Some popular options include Taylor Fitness, Palestine YMCA, and Anytime Fitness. Discover the walking and biking trails in and around Palestine, such as the Fairy Garden Trail and the Reagan Park. These trails offer opportunities for outdoor exercise and the enjoyment of nature.

Top sites in Palestine, TX are Davey Dogwood Park, Texas State Railroad Palestine Depot, and Railroad Heritage Center.

Population: 19,583 (2024). ZIP codes: 75801-75803, 75882. Area codes: 903, 430. Elevation: 430 ft (131 m). Area: 19.63 sq mi (50.83 km2).

FAQs

What is Palestine, TX known for?

Popular attractions include the Museum for East Texas Culture, The Texas Theatre, and Eilenberger's Bakery. Second only to Galveston, Palestine is home to over 1,800 historic sites. These include churches, buildings, monuments, cemeteries, museums, and more.

Is Palestine, TX a good place to live?

Living in Palestine offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes. In Palestine, there are a lot of parks. Many families live in Palestine and residents tend to have moderate political views. The public schools in Palestine are above average.

What is the crime rate in Palestine, TX?

With a crime rate of 33 per one thousand residents, Palestine has one of the highest crime rates in America compared to all communities of all sizes - from the smallest towns to the very largest cities. One's chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime here is one in 30. Within Texas, more than 92% of the communities have a lower crime rate than Palestine.

Sources

Wikipedia 

City of Palestine

Palestine Regional Medical Center 

Palestine Parks and Recreation Department

Taylor Fitness

Palestine YMCA 

Anytime Fitness

Fairy Garden Trail

Reagan Park

Davey Dogwood Park

Texas State Railroad Palestine Depot

Railroad Heritage Center

About Us

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