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A GUIDE TO ALL things

A Publication of The TRAVEL MAGAZINE of TEXAS

WELCOME MAKE learning ABOUT to the COUNTRY that’s TEXAS!

TEXAS MORE OU MAY HAVE HEARD a tall tale or two about Texas. CONTENTS fun! A few of them are even true. But it’s not so exaggerated to Six Flags of Texas ...... 2 think of Texas as a whole other country. Covering 268,596 The Capitol ...... 6 square miles, Texas stretches 801 straight-line miles from TEST YOUR TEXAS HIGHWAYS IQ Travel ...... 8 northY to south and 773 miles from east to west. Country . . . . . 10 on page 29, and fi nd how you rate on our A few things about Texas might surprise you. Like mountains looming a TRUE TEXAN SCALE. But no matter how you score, Gulf Coast ...... 12 mile high in Big Bend Country. Deep forests that blanket millions of acres you can subscribe for just $24.95 a year. Hill Country ...... 14. in the . Humid swamps where wild orchids grow. Panhandle Plains ...... 16. You’ll get 12 fabulous issues, each one packed with Dramatic volcanic landscapes. More than 600 miles of sunny Gulf coastline. Piney Woods ...... 18. the best destinations, food, events, and attractions. Thirty-three modern cities with populations of 100,000 or more. And thou- Prairies and Lakes . . . . . 20 sands of square miles of grassy, rolling prairies where ranches and Texas Plains . . . . . 22 Go to www.texashighways.com cowboys still thrive. People ...... 24 Or, call . This isn’t a detailed guide—it’s a quick look at the colorful and distinctive Parks ...... 26 Flowers ...... 28 land called Texas. In these pages, you can discover for yourself the truth about ...... 30 DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTIONS the Texas mystique. For details, visit www.zinio.com/texashighways The Facts ...... 32. Enjoy! Symbols ...... 35 Roadways ...... 36

Compiled & Published by Travel Information Division, Texas Department of Transportation, P.O. Box 149249, Austin, TX 78714-9249 | www.txdot.gov

© TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION All photos provided by Communications Division, PREPARED FOR FREE DISTRIBUTION Texas Department of Transportation, unless other- April 2016 | Litho in USA 041616 | Printed on recycled paper wise noted.

Quick LOOK TX | 1 SIX

FLAGS Texas in the

Texas in the Confederacy

Presidio La Bahia hosts a re-enactment of the Goliad Massacre each March.

URING MORE THAN four centuries of recorded history in the area that became Texas, many flags have flown at significant times and places. There was the flag associated with the opening Texas as a Republic shots of the at Gonzales in 1835, plus many flags ofD the revolutionary period that included a “lone star.” flew flags of the Long Republic and the Fredonian Republics; and South Texas unfurled a flag of the Republic of the Rio Grande. At San Jacinto, where Texas won indepen- dence, the charging Texans carried a white silk banner that had the figure of a woman symbolizing liberty. All are important in telling Texas’ history, but here, we focus on the six flags of the nations that exercised actual dominion over or staked major claims to Texas. Texas Under Mexico TEXAS UNDER in Texas. This was Ysleta, established 1519–1685; 1690–1821 in 1681 in present-day El Paso. ★ Spain became the first European nation ★ Gradually expanding from Mexico, to claim what is now Texas, beginning other Spanish missions, forts and civil in 1519. More than 100 years before the settlements followed for nearly a cen- Pilgrims set foot on Plymouth Rock, tury and-a-half until Mexico won its Alonso Alvarez de Piñeda was busy independence from Spain in 1821. mapping the Gulf Coast from to ★ The red-and-yellow-striped Spanish Yucatán, claiming the land for the gov- flag of this historic period depicts a lion ernment of Spain. Meanwhile explorer of Leon and a castle of Castile on Texas Under Hernán Cortés was establishing a a shield topped by a crown. Spanish presence in Mexico. Spain’s obsession with gold, encouraged by TEXAS UNDER FRANCE the successes of Cortés, led to more 1685–1690 expeditions. ★ Planning to expand its base from ★ A few shipwrecked Spaniards, like French Louisiana, France took a bold Alvar Núñez and Cabeza de Vaca, and step in 1685, planting its flag in eastern explorers such as Vásquez de Coronado, Texas near the Gulf Coast. Although occasionally probed the vast wilderness, Spain had claimed Texas, most of the The many flags of but colonization came slowly. It followed territory had no Spanish presence at Texas are on display the creation of missions and more than all. The nearest Spanish settlements Texas Under Spain inside the Alamo. 100 years passed before Spain started a were hundreds of miles away. settlement that could be called a town ★ French nobleman René Robert

2 | Quick LOOK TX Quick LOOK TX | 3 Gen. Antonio López de Santa Anna refused to see him. Austin was impris- oned for nearly two years on a charge of treason. THE TERM “TEXIAN” ★ Meanwhile, Sam had come is used to describe early Anglo- to Texas. As a former congressman American settlers in Texas and and governor of Tennessee, he had citizens of the Republic of Texas . the political background to become a But after Texas joined the United leader of the restless settlers, who now States in 1845, “Texan” became outnumbered the Mexican nationals in much more common . Texas by four to one. ★ The last straw was when Gen. Santa Anna scrapped the Mexican constitu- Mexican troops died during a 13-day tion and declared himself dictator. siege before the defenders were killed. ★ ★ The first shots of the Texas Revolution A few weeks later, Santa Anna ordered were fired on September 1, 1835, near the massacre of Col. James W. Fannin the mouth of the , when Jr. and his men at Goliad. He then the armed schooner San Felipe en­­gaged sent his troops in pursuit of Gen. Sam the Mexican cutter Correo de Mejico. On Houston’s forces, which had retreated October 2, the first land shot of the to the bayou country near present-day Houston. The Texians surprised the Fort Davis National Historic Site includes ruins and restorations. Many of the Texas Revolution was fired near Gonzales in Mexicans on April 21, 1836, and tri- frontier forts feature living history days. the area that is now the community of Cost, when Mexican troops demanded umphed in the Battle of San Jacinto, The Texas Longhorn is the state’s official large mammal. See page 35 for more state symbols. the return of a cannon they had loaned which won independence for Texas. HISTORIC FORTS AND PRESIDIOS ★ the settlers. Their reply of “Come and Mexico’s flag depicts an eagle, a snake on determined self-reliance. Texas hroughout Texas history, whether during exploration, colonization, revolution Take It” became a rallying cry. On (a symbol from pre-Columbian mythol- TEXAS IN THE CONFEDERACY or expansion, Texans were busy establishing forts, presidios, military camps, 1861–1865 recovered from the devastation of war October 12, the Texians overran the fort ogy) and a cactus on bars of green, barracks and stockades to ward off potential enemies . In fact, far more forts and ★ more quickly than other Confederate at Goliad, and less than two months white and red. Sixteen years after Texas became presidios were constructed in Texas than the few still standing today . During the part of the United States, the Civil War states. Thousands of Texas Longhorn T19th century alone, considered the state’s expansionist period for Anglo-Americans, more later took the city of . broke out. In February 1861, Texas cattle were running free on Texas than 30 defensive forts were built across the state . ★ Determined to regain the city, Gen. TEXAS AS A REPUBLIC 1836–1845 voted to side with the Confederate lands, and there was a demand for Restoration and conservation efforts have opened up many of these remaining forts, such Santa Anna and his army held the ★ States of America. beef in northern markets. The legend- as Fort Davis, the Alamo and Fort Defiance, to give visitors an opportunity to imagine the Alamo under siege for more than a The Texas Declaration of Independence­ ★ ary trail drives met that demand and heat of the battle while wandering the grounds and examining ramparts, cannons, towers week. On March 6, 1836, Santa Anna was drafted on March 2, 1836, and that Gov. Sam Houston, who urged Texans brought much-needed cash to Texas. and blockades . ordered about 1,800 of his troops to independence lasted for almost a decade. to stay aloof or re-establish a neutral ★ Newly turned topsoil on vast farm acre- Visit texastimetravel.com/node/28663 for details on the historic forts and presidios . attack the Alamo, which was defended ★ Sam Houston, hero of San Jacinto, republic, was driven from office. ★ ages yielded bountiful crops. by fewer than 200 men. Hundreds of was the republic’s first president. The During the course of the war, Texas ★ Republic of Texas endured epidemics, provided both men and supplies to the At 10 a.m. on January 10, 1901, the financial crises and volatile clashes Confederacy. And like all states in the Lucas oil well blew in at , Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle, founded a royal ensign for ships and forts— with Mexico. The Mexican army made doomed Confederacy, it faced devasta- and Texas entered the modern era. ★ colony called Fort St. Louis on Lavaca features golden fleurs-de-lis. an abortive attempt to recapture San tion and economic collapse. By the mid-20th century, Texas indus- Bay in an area he mistakenly believed Antonio. Texas independence was rec- ★ The last battle of the war was fought in tries were sprouting in a fertile climate to be where the Mississippi River emp- TEXAS UNDER MEXICO ognized by the United States in 1837, by Texas at Palmito Ranch near Browns­­­ of advanced technology. When NASA tied into the . The effort 1821–1836 France in 1839, and by England and the ville. A month after Robert E. Lee had established its presence near Houston was doomed by a series of calamities— ★ For more than a decade after Mexico in 1840. officially surrendered, the Confeder- in the 1960s, Texans took part in the shipwreck, disease, famine, hostile won independence from Spain in 1821, ★ Although the Republic of Texas was an ates claimed victory because these sol- exploration of yet another frontier. ★ Indians and internal strife resulting in pioneers from the Hispanic south and independent nation, most of its citizens diers were determined to fight on. The historic version of the Stars and La Salle’s murder. the Anglo north flowed into Texas. favored statehood. The U.S. Congress, ★ The first national flag of the Stripes features only 28 stars, as it ★ By 1690 this settlement was abandoned. Land grants were offered to settlers, too reluctant to admit another “slave” Confederate States of America is would have when Texas first became The Spanish, however, recognizing and brought groups to state delayed acceptance of Texas, known as the Stars and Bars. You part of the United States. the threat of colonization by other take advantage of the generous grants. but a compromise was reached. On may be more familiar with the later European powers, moved up the Best known, perhaps, were the 300 December 29, 1845, the state was legal- X-crossed Confederate battle flag, and built the first East families brought by Stephen F. Austin. ly annexed by the United States. also known as the Starry Cross. Texas mission, San Francisco de los Families today proudly trace their ties ★ Mexico considered this annexation i Tejas, near present-day Weches. to the “Old 300.” of Texas a declaration of war, and TEXAS IN THE UNITED STATES ★ The French tried another colonization ★ It was a frontier region. Anglo Texans although federal troops under Gen. 1845–1861; 1865–Present FOR MORE INFORMATION effort in the 1700s, and the Spanish became Mexican citizens. Settlers Zachary Taylor firmly established the ★ On December 29, 1845, Texas was about almost any topic in Texas history— again moved to strengthen their came in droves, and soon friction right of Texas to be a state, boundaries admitted into the United States, A to Z—visit the Handbook of Texas claim by building more missions. between the settlers and Mexico grew were ill-defined and remained a source becoming its 28th state. Online: www.tshaonline.org. Settlements around the missions into rebellion. Conventions were called Known as "The Father of Texas," Stephen F. of disputes for years to come. ★ Shrugging aside defeat and bitter became the towns of San Antonio, in 1832 and 1833, and the colonists peti- Austin established the first Anglo-American ★ The red, white and blue Texas state flag reconstruction after the Civil War, the For more on the Flags of Texas see Goliad and Nacogdoches. tioned Mexico for civil rights. Austin colony in the Tejas province of Mexico. This with its lone star is the same flag the offspring of Texas pioneers marshaled www.tsl.state.tx.us/ref/abouttx/ ★ The French flag—actually the French took the demands to Mexico City, but statue by Elisabet Ney, stands in the capitol. republic adopted in 1839. their strengths to secure a future based sixflags.html.

4 | Quick LOOK TX Quick LOOK TX | 5 The

THE LEGISLATURE OF CAPITOL THE STATE OF TEXAS • The Texas Legislature meets every two years . • It convenes in January of every odd-numbered year for a session last- ing no more than 140 days . • In addition, the governor may call a special session at any time . • The Legislature has two chambers —the Senate and the House . • The Senate has 31 members who serve four-year terms . • The House has 150 members who serve two-year terms . For more information, see www.capitol.state.tx.us.

USTIN BECAME THE capital city in 1839. The capital was later moved to Houston in 1842, then Washington-on-the- Brazos before returning to Austin in 1845. The Texas Constitution, adopted February 15, 1876, authorized the saleA of public land to finance a new state capitol in Austin.­ ★ The builders accepted as payment ★ The building stands 302.64 feet tall, 3 million acres of land in 10 counties measured from the oval walk at of the . This land the south entrance to the tip of the became the famed XIT Ranch. star in the Goddess of Liberty’s ★ Original plans called for construction hand at the top of the dome. It is with Texas limestone. After the 14.64 feet taller than the U.S. corner­stone was laid on March 2, 1885, Capitol in Washington, D.C. TOP: In the center of the rotunda­ floor is a con­cerns arose about the uniform qual- ★ The Capitol is open daily for terrazzo design of the “Seals of the Nations.” ity of limestone from then-available visitors. For more information, quarries. visit the State Preservation Board ABOVE: Looking up, the star in the ceiling of ★ Owners of Mountain at Marble website at www.tspb.state.tx.us. the Capitol dome has letters between the points Falls in Burnet County offered build- spelling out “Texas.” ing stone, free of charge, to the state. The structure was completed with the Sunset Red Texas Granite that makes the Capitol so distinctive. ★ It was designed by architect Elijah E. Myers in the Renaissance Revival style. The building was dedicated The Senate on May 16, 1888, and occupied­ in Chamber is in September of that year. the east wing ★ Covering 2.25 acres of ground with on the second some 8.5 acres of floor space, the floor. Capitol was said to be the seventh- largest building in the world at the time of its construction. ★ A four-story, 650,000-square-foot Many monuments and statues can underground extension was added in be found on the Capitol grounds. 1993. Major renovation of the Capitol was completed in 1995.

6 | Quick LOOK TX Quick LOOK TX | 7 HE TEXAS Department of Transpor­tation­ operates 12 travel information centers for the convenience of the traveling public. i TRAVEL Uniformed, professional travel counselors TEXAS TRAVEL INFORMATION CENTERS welcomeT visitors and provide literature and information 1 Amarillo I-40 806/335-1441 on travel within the state. 2 Anthony I-10 915/886-3468 Working with the Texas State Travel Guide and the Texas 3 Austin Capitol Visitor Center 512/463-8586 Official Travel Map, counselors expertly chart routes to any area 4 Denison U S. . 69/75 903/463-2860 of Texas, pointing out the most convenient short-line directions 5 Gainesville I-35 940/665-2301 or leisurely scenic drives to your destination. They supply 6 Langtry U S. . 90/Loop 25 432/291-3340 comprehensive statewide travel publications, plus detailed 7 Laredo I-35 at U S. . 83 956/417-4728 brochures about towns, attractions and points of interest 8 Orange I-10 409/883-9416 along the way. 9 Texarkana I-30 903/794-2114 The Texas Travel Informa­ ­ 10 (Harlingen) U S. . 77 at U S. . 83 956/428-4477 tion Centers served 2,172,724 11 Waskom I-20 903/687-2547 customers in 2015. Travelers 12 Wichita Falls I-44/U S. . 287, Exit 1C 940/723-7931 stopping at the travel informa- tion centers had access to This is an overview of the state showing interstate and more than 3.8 million pieces major highways. It is not intended for use as a travel map. of literature, making them Colors indicate the seven Texas travel regions—shown the largest outlets of travel below. The next 14 pages feature each region. literature in the state and some of the largest in the nation. The Texas Travel Infor­ ma­tion Centers are open daily except New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

FOR 24-HOUR HIGHWAY condition information, call 800/452-9292 or visit www.drivetexas.org.

Use this mileage chart to see how far it is between two Texas cities. Traveling on THE SEVEN TRAVEL I-10, it is 834 miles from REGIONS OF TEXAS El Paso to Orange! ■ BIG BEND COUNTRY ■ GULF COAST ■ HILL COUNTRY ■ PANHANDLE PLAINS ■ PINEY WOODS ■ PRAIRIES AND LAKES ■ SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

8 | Quick LOOK TX Quick LOOK TX | 9 BIG BEND

REGIONAL HIGHLIGHTS COUNTRY • El Paso: Museums, missions and Franklin Mountains State Park • Big Bend National Park & Big Bend Ranch State Park: Great scenery and hiking opportunities • Guadalupe Mountains National Park: The highest peak in Texas • Fort Davis: Historic fort, state park and McDonald Observatory • Alpine : Art and high desert • Marfa : The Chinati Foundation and mystery lights • Midland : Petroleum history and nature preserves • Odessa : Meteor Crater and the Presidential Archives and Library • Terlingua : Ghost town and chili cook-offs • Monahans Sandhills State Park: Surf the dunes DISCOVER UNTAMED LANDSCAPES • Del Rio: Amistad National Recrea­ tion Area and ancient pictographs AND A HINT OF THE WILD WEST • Fort Stockton: Paisano Pete isitors to this beautiful natural region find high-country adventure after adventure because the Big Bend Country is chockfull of outdoor opportunities like hiking, camping, horseback riding, mountain biking, jeep touring, river raftingV and more. The landscapes in this tallest region of the state are straight out of an old Hollywood western, with thorny, sun-bleached and jagged terrain. Ancient rock lays exposed in more than a mile above sea level. Survival became a way of life for those who settled in this rough, remote area. Although early explorers couldn’t tame the land, they made it more accessible. Today, excellent highways span the wilderness, leading to sites where the great War Trail swept across two nations, and cavalry troop- ers scanned the horizon for danger, and cowboys made their home on the range.

ABOVE: Texas’ oldest mission, Corpus Christi de la Ysleta in El Paso, was established in 1682. RIGHT: Paisano Pete in Fort Stockton is a popular photo subject.

Midland’s Basin Petroleum Museum takes visitors on a step-by-step search for oil.

Rafting the Rio Grande is one way to experience FOR MORE INFORMATION this river and the Chihuahuan Desert landscape. i on the Big Bend Country region, go to www.TravelTexas.com.

10 | Quick LOOK TX Quick LOOK TX | 11 GULF COAST

BIG-CITY BUZZ YIELDS TO QUAINT VILLAGES AND SUNNY BEACHES IN THIS DIVERSE REGION

etween the moss-draped bayous of Louisiana and the sunny shores of Mexico, you’ll discover the 624-mile stretch of the Texas Gulf Coast. Here, you’ll find a wealth of natural harbors, historic fishing villages, busy ports, off-

shoreB islands, sheltered bays and recreational areas sprinkled along the ABOVE: NASA/Space Center Houston seashore. Campers and anglers enjoy superb oceanfront parks, while is the headquarters of America’s manned nature-lovers delight in some of the best opportunities for -watch- space program. LEFT: Dolphins interact ing in the Western Hemisphere. The seaside playground, South Padre wtih visitors at the Texas State Aquarium Island, draws tourists from across the globe and enjoys acclaim as one in Corpus Christi. of the best beaches in the world.

REGIONAL HIGHLIGHTS • Houston and Bay area: Museum and theater districts, Houston Astros, NASA/Space Center Houston, Kemah i Boardwalk and San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site • Galveston : Historic homes and Moody Gardens FOR MORE • Corpus Christi: Texas State Aquarium and Padre Island INFORMATION National Seashore on the Gulf Coast • South Padre Island: Water sports, beaches and fishing region, go to • Brownsville : History, nature parks and Charro Days www.TravelTexas.com. • Beaumont: Museums and Spindletop-Gladys Boomtown • Orange: Shangri La Botanical Gardens and the Stark Foundation museums • Port Aransas: Island State Park, beaches Texas’ Padre Island is one of the and fishing longest stretches of undeveloped • Rockport/Fulton: and barrier island in the world. The tall ship Elissa is on display at the Fulton Mansion Texas Seaport Museum in Galveston. • National Wildlife Refuges and Coastal Birding Trail sites

12 | Quick LOOK TX Quick LOOK TX | 13 HILL COUNTRY

NATURE AND CHARM ABOUND IN ROLLING HILLS, SPRING-FED RIVERS AND HISTORIC TOWNS

ush green slopes, rocky landscapes and bubbling springs are just some of the delights of the . ABOVE: The Bullock State History You’ll also be amazed by rolling hills and river valleys that Museum in Austin traces Texas history were shaped by ancient seas, enormous geological forces and through the early 1970s. LEFT: There millenniaL of . Today, skyscrapers stand in cities just miles away are lots of riding opportunities at dude from open space teeming with native wildlife. Visitors explore cliff-edged ranches around Bandera. lakes, dude ranches, deep and state parks that offer historic treasures and natural beauty. It’s a land to cherish—rich with Texas’ handsome capital city, charming small towns, cool water activities, highland vistas and more.

REGIONAL HIGHLIGHTS • Austin : The State Capitol, Bullock Museum, , and music • Fredericksburg: German culture, wineries, and Luckenbach • San Marcos: Aquarena Springs and Wittliff Collections • New Braunfels: Wurstfest and the Comal River • Kerrville : Folk music, arts and crafts, and food festivals •  : without a Name, Longhorn Caverns, , Inner Space Caverns and • State Natural Areas: Devil’s , Lost Maples, Hill Country

The • Swimming holes: Hamilton Pool and Blue Hole is one of the many clear • Bat watching: Ann Richards Bridge and Eckert James Inner Space Caverns in FOR MORE INFORMATION streams in the Texas River Bat Cave Georgetown is one of the most i on the Hill Country region, Hill Country. • Dude ranches and river resorts accesible caves in the state. go to www.TravelTexas.com. • Highland Lakes and recreation

14 | Quick LOOK TX Quick LOOK TX | 15 PANHANDLE PLAINS

BIG SKIES, DEEP CANYONS AND WIDE EXPANSES HIGHLIGHT THIS COWBOY-LADEN FRONTIER in San Angelo is one of the best preserved frontier military hat better way to understand the frontier and the posts west of the Mississippi. people who settled it than to browse the fascinating museums and experience the rugged beauty of the Texas Panhandle Plains? Resilient men and women shapedW the heritage of this region. The Panhandle Plains slice through REGIONAL HIGHLIGHTS what residents call the “Golden Spread,” which refers to this immensely • Amarillo : Quarter Horse Museum, rich agricultural, mineral and industrial area. Cadillac Ranch, Discovery Center and Route 66 Those who travel these wide-open spaces find many opportunities for • Lubbock : Ranching Heritage Center, camping amid scenic vistas, nature Buddy Holly, natural history and photography and exploring the paths Texas Tech of the ancient people who once roamed •  : State Park, TEXAS and the Panhandle- this land. Plains Historical Museum • Abilene : Frontier Texas!, The Grace ABOVE: Perryton’s Wheatheart of Museum and National Center for the Nation Celebration features one Children’s Illustrated Literature of the many rodeos in this region. • San Angelo: Fort Concho, art centers and a river walk RIGHT: The American Wind Power Center in Lubbock houses the largest • Wichita Falls: Waterfalls and bike races windmill collection in the world. • Mineral Wells: Crazy Water, Lake Mineral Wells State Park and Trailway • Buffalo Gap: Historic village • Dalhart : XIT ranch FOR MORE INFORMATION • Quanah : Medicine Mounds i on the Panhandle Plains region, • Possum Kingdom State Park Palo Duro Canyon, south of Amarillo is go to www.TravelTexas.com. • Caprock Canyons State Park and known as the “ of Texas.” Trailway & official bison herd • Fort Griffin State Historic Site

16 | Quick LOOK TX Quick LOOK TX | 17 PINEY WOODS

EAST TEXAS APPEAL IS ACCENTUATED BY HISTORIC SITES AND MAJESTIC FORESTS

o appreciate the vast East Texas Piney Woods—with acreage almost equaling that of all the forests of New LEFT: Ride on a Texas State Railroad England—get out and explore on a walk or a drive. train in Palestine and Rusk. ABOVE: This isn’t the open prairie that often comes to mind Dancer at Alabama-Coushatta Reservation near Livingston. whenT you picture Texas. The Piney Woods were the first part of Texas to be settled by Anglo-American pioneers. Steamboats once traveled on rivers and bayous, including Lake, the only natural lake in Texas. Plantation homes were part of the Old-South lifestyle. Today’s travelers savor outdoor recreation in verdant landscapes and enjoy historic struc- REGIONAL HIGHLIGHTS tures in delightfully comfortable small towns. • Tyler : Rose Garden and Museum • Huntsville : Prison and Sam Houston museum complex and statue • Texarkana : Stand in two states at one time • Jefferson : Historic homes and Caddo Lake • Longview : Balloon races • Palestine and Rusk: Ride the historic Texas State Railroad • Nacogdoches: The Oldest Town in Texas • El Camino Real de los Tejas historic sites • National Forests: Angelina, Davy Crockett, Sabine and Sam Houston • Big Thicket • Dogwoods and azalea festivals in spring • Great lakes for fishing and recreation

FOR MORE INFORMATION Bald cypress es thrive in the i on the Piney Woods region, waters of . Longview is designated “Balloon Capital of Texas” and holds events like go to www.TravelTexas.com. the Great Texas Balloon Race.

18 | Quick LOOK TX Quick LOOK TX | 19 PRAIRIES AND LAKES

ADVENTURE AND RECREATION RUN THE GAMUT FROM BALLET TO BASS FISHING

aking a giant sweep from the Texas- state line through and Fort Worth, south to the The Nasher Sculpture Center is one dark, rich central prairies is the Prairies and Lakes of many art museums in the Dallas/ Fort Worth area. region. Here, Stephen F. Austin and Sterling Robertson settledM their original Texas colonists. In this region, you can find adventure in the big city or recreation at the lake. FOR MORE INFORMATION Ballet, symphonies, museums, sporting events, outdoor activities and a i on the Prairies and Lakes region, calendar full of fairs and festivals offer plenty of options for entertainment go to www.TravelTex.com. and fun. This region also is home to dozens of major lakes where anglers go fishing for black and sand bass, crappie and catfish.

REGIONAL HIGHLIGHTS • Dallas: State Fair of Texas, museums and culture • Fort Worth: Cultural and Stockyard districts • Arlington: Dallas Cowboys, Texas Rangers and Six Flags • Washington-on-the-Brazos and Gonzales: Cradles of Texas independence • Waco : Mammoths, zoo, and Dr Pepper • Bryan/College Station: Football and George Bush Presidential Library • Brenham : Blue Bell ice cream and bluebonnets • Round Top: Shakespeare, music and antiques • Ennis : Bluebonnets and car races TOP: Find sports like major league baseball at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington. ABOVE: Waco’s landmark •  : Quilts and Monument Hill La Grange Suspension Bridge over the Brazos River is still being Lake Whitney is a popular water recreation spot. • West and Caldwell: Kolaches and Czech culture used as a pedestrian bridge. • Lots of lakes and parks

20 | Quick LOOK TX Quick LOOK TX | 21 SOUTH TEXAS REGIONAL HIGHLIGHTS • San Antonio: The Alamo, River Walk, Seaworld, Fiesta Six Flags, PLAINS museums and mercados • Laredo : Washington’s Birthday Celebration, and Border Heritage and Republic of the Rio Grande museums • Goliad : Presidio La Bahia and the state park with Mission Espiritu Santo • Mission : The National Butterfly Center and Los Ebanos Ferry • McAllen : Quinta Mazatlan and Museum of Art and Science • Hidalgo : Borderfest and the pumphouse museum • Alamo : Santa Ana • Poteet: Strawberry Festival • Rio Grande City: Fort Ringgold— SOAK UP THE FLAVORS, INTRIGUING HISTORY, the best preserved fort in Texas • Edinburg : Museum of South Texas VIBRANT CULTURE AND STUNNING SCENERY History and Lake El Sal del Ray elcome to the region where conquistadors­­ planted • World Birding Centers: Headquarters at Bentsen-Rio Grande fortresses for Imperial Spain, where huge ranches flour- Valley State Park in Mission, also in ished, and where Franciscan padres founded graceful Edinburg, Hidalgo, McAllen, Roma, and Weslaco missions a half-century before the United States was born. • Fannin : State Historic Site WThe South Texas Plains, stretching from San Antonio to the Mexican bor- der, offers a delightful bicultural experience, complete with mariachi music and the tangy taste of Mexican cuisine. There’s a definite Latino flavor made even more exotic by glossy green citrus groves, rustling palms and blazing bougainvilleas that supply the backdrop­ for the Lower Rio Grande Valley at the southern tip of the state.

ABOVE: Hidalgo’s Borderfest celebrates a different interna- tional community each year. RIGHT: Mission celebrates­ the Valley’s favorite fruit in January with the Texas Citrus Fiesta.

i FOR MORE INFORMATION The Lower Rio Grande Valley is home on the South Texas to nine World Birding Center sites. Plains region, go to The Alamo, in San Antonio, www.TravelTex.com. is Texas’ most famous shrine.

22 | Quick LOOK TX Quick LOOK TX | 23 howa, Kosciusko, Chappel­ Hill and Bryan. He helped bring 100 families from Upper Silesia to Texas and founded the town Panna Maria, which is now the old- est permanent Polish settlement in the PEOPLE United States and the location of the first Polish Catholic church and school.

AFRICAN-AMERICAN: Spain declared in 1803 that any African- American slave that crossed the Sabine into Texas would be automatically free. Seeking that promise of freedom, many slaves headed for the border and became teachers, merchants, miners, landowners and more. When Texas won its inde- pendence from Mexico in 1836, slavery became legal again. But on June 19, 1865, African-American cavalry on the frontier slaves received word—the Emancipation were often referred to as “buffalo soldiers.” Proclamation from President Abraham Lincoln—that they were freed. The event, which occurred in Galveston, is now cel- ebrated in several states as Juneteenth. HE LONE STAR STATE gets much of its uniqueness from its beau- tiful mix of people. Indeed it is this great blend of cultures that give FRENCH: Texas its lively personality. You can hear it in the music, taste it in The French Alsatians founded Castro­ the food, sample it at the festivals and see it in the architecture—­ ville, near San Antonio, and after the Texas Revolution, French missionaries TexansT are a colorful bunch. Here are just a few: helped to rebuild the Catholic Church in Texas and set up schools, churches NATIVE AMERICANS: and hospitals across the state. Texas’ earliest inhabitants, the Native Americans, were not a single culture. ASIAN: There were many tribes, including the Around 1880, many Chinese came to , Caddo, Comanche, Cherokee, Texas to help build the railroads, now , , Wichita, Hueco and one of the best systems in the nation. In Karankawa. Today, there are three 1902, Japanese migrated to the Gulf Coast federally recognized Native American where they started rice farms. Today, tribes in Texas—the Alabama-Coushatta, Asians—also including East Indian, Viet­ Kickapoo­ and the Ysleta Del Sur Pueblo of namese, Filipino, Laotian, and Cambodian Texas. Texans—continue to add their languages, religions and cultures to the Texas mix. HISPANIC: Houston, in fact, has the third highest European Spaniards changed the New The National Asian population in the nation. World more than any other people. They Polka Festival in came to Texas as soldiers, settlers and Ennis celebrates priests. But they also changed, as much as Czech culture. they changed the land. They encouraged mixed marriages with European, Native amount of growth, they later founded the CULTURAL FESTIVALS American and African, and those blends town of Fredericksburg. THE MOST FUN way to celebrate —mestizos—became known by many the different cultures of Texas is to names—Mexicans, Tejanos, Hispanics, CZECH: attend festivals like the Czech Heritage Latinos, Mexicanos, Mexican Americans, Farming, food and music were a way of Fest, Kolache Fest, Greek Food Fest, la Raza and Chicanos. life for the Czech immigrants, who settled African-American Heritage Festival, mainly in the Blackland prairie area. Germanfest, Okto­ber­fest, Festa GERMAN: Today, there are many Czech museums Italiana, Celtic Heritage Festival, German Texans are a predominant cul- and festivals you can attend to get a feel Fiesta in San Antonio, Polka Fest, tural group in Texas and their traditions, for (and taste of) this culture. numerous Native American powwows, food and music can be found in many fes- the Wendish Fest and more . tivals and events throughout the year. The POLISH: For more event information, visit The Mexican holiday Cinco de Germans made their way to Texas in about Father Leopold Moczygemba, a Francis­ ­ the Texas Highways Events Calendar Mayo is celebrated in Texas. 1844 where they bought land and settled can priest, gets credit for developing at www.texashighways.com or in New Braunfels. After a considerable Polish settlements in Texas like Cesto­ www.traveltexas.com .

24 | Quick LOOK TX Quick LOOK TX | 25 Centuries-old Spanish missions, rough-hewn frontier army forts and dignified mansions from bygone days PARKS are preserved. Most parks charge an admission fee, plus a range of additional fees for camping and other accommodations. A Texas State Parks Pass, available at state parks or by calling (512) 389-8900, offers discounts and unlimited entry to more than 90 state parks.

Balmorhea State Park has the world’s largest spring-fed swimming pool.

HE TEXAS PARKS and Wildlife Department offers more than 90 state parks, with features ranging from natural landscapes to outdoor rec- reational areas to historic sites. Park visitors find Costumed staff re-create early farm life at the abundantT camping facilities, hiking and nature trails; close-up views of colorful Barrington Living History Farm at Wash­ ington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site. birds and wildlife; flora from shady forests to desert cacti; and frequent opportu- nities for fishing, swimming­ and boating. Fishing is allowed in all water-access state parks, and fishing licenses are available at most. In the Texas state park system, you’ll find eerie NATIONAL PARK subterranean­ chambers, SERVICE AREAS pri­meval , mile- • Alibates Flint Quarries National high mountain vistas, spectac- Monument ular canyons and sandy • Amistad seashores. The Texas Histori­ • • National Preserve cal Com­mission oversees • Chamizal National Memorial certain state historical sites, • Fort Davis National Historic Site which accent Texas’ heritage. • National Park • Lake Meredith National Recreation Area • Lyndon B . Johnson National For information on state Historical Park parks, hunting and fishing, • Padre Island National Seashore call Texas Parks and Wild­ • Palo Alto Battlefield National life at 800/792-1112 or visit Historic Site www.texasstateparks.org . • Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River For information on state Lost Maples State historic sites, call Texas • San Antonio Missions National Natural Area is Historical Commission Historic Park great for fall color. at 512/463-7948 or visit Telescopes are available on a regular basis at George For more information, visit www.thc.state.tx.us . Observatory in near Rosenberg. www.nps.gov .

26 | Quick LOOK TX Quick LOOK TX | 27 Texas Highways FLOWERS POP QUIZ! TAKE THIS QUIZ TO FIND YOUR TRUE TEXAS IQ: 1) What is the capital of Texas? 2) Where is Sam Houston buried? 3) What mountain range is inside Big Bend National Park? 4) How many miles long is the Texas Gulf Coast? 5) What is the largest city on historic Route 66 in Texas? Blooming pitcher plants can be found in the Big Thicket National Preserve near Kountze. 6) What makes Caddo Lake unique in Texas? N THE HUMID MARSHLANDS of the East Texas Piney Woods, car- 7) Where was Dr. Pepper invented? nivorous pitcher plants trap unwary insects. Far across the state, red 8) What famous building is located Mexican silenes seek the seclusion of cool canyons. On the sun-swept in San Antonio? 9) What is the longest river in Texas? Gulf Coast, beach morning glories race across lonely dunes. Such is the (Check your answers below) I variety of Texas’ 5,000 wildflower species—

products of the state’s diverse environment. Bluebonnets,­ buttercups and Indian paint­ brushes crop up statewide, making colorful ? displays along the highways each spring. While spring is the most spectacular season, other times offer their own special- ties. The sun-drenched Trans-Pecos region doesn’t follow the calendar. In almost any month, “spring” follows each rare, welcome rain, when yucca, ocotillo and cacti erupt in a brief display of blooms. Throughout the year in the Lower Rio Coreopsis Grande Valley, towering palms stand guard over bougainvillea-draped boulevards. In HOW DID YOU SCORE? 0-2: Yankee. You’ve got some studying winter, citrus orchards are heady with the scent of orange blossoms, and giant to do. Subscribe today! poinsettias, a major floriculture crop, decorate homes for the holiday season. 3–5: Bless Your Heart. Don’t give up, you’ll get there. 6–8: Walkin’ in Tall Cotton.You know a lot about Texas, but we can still teach you a thing or two. Wildflowers of Texas, 9: You’re a True Texan! You probably a brochure published by already subscribe to Texas Highways, the Texas Department of but think about giving your friends Transportation, is available free from all Texas Travel and family a gift subscription! Information Centers and Become a True Texan and subscribe for just by writing to Wildflowers of Texas, P O. . Box 149249, $24.95 a year! Click the Subscribe tab Austin, TX 78714-9249 . at www.texashighways.com or call us at

Or call 800/452-9292 . 800-839-4997 .

9 For information about Grande Rio The )

8 7 Alamo, The ) Waco, ) Texas wildflowers, see lake, natural only state’s

6 5 4 3 ) It is the the is It ) Amarillo, ) 624, ) www.wildflower.org . Mountains, Chisos )

2 1 ) Oakwood Cemetery in Huntsville, Huntsville, in Cemetery Oakwood ) Austin, ) : Bluebonnet is the official state flower. Cactus like this strawberry cactus can be found blooming ANSWERS during springtime in the western part of the state.

28 | Quick LOOK TX Quick LOOK TX | 29 BIRDS

Zebra Heliconian

…AND BUTTERFLIES, TOO With its many ecological regions and diverse geological and biological fea- tures, Texas is also the most butterfly- diverse state in the nation . Of the 772 ITH THREE-FOURTHS of all known North American species recorded in North America birds represented in Texas, anywhere in the state, anytime (north of Mexico), about 432 have been of the year, there are birds for the watching. No other state recorded in Texas . Nearly 300 of those species are found only in the Lower Rio offers the birding variety (or challenge) that Texas does. Grande Valley where the winters are It’sW no wonder Texas is one of the nation’s leaders in nature tourism. ­ mild and the plants are diverse . Butterfly watchers from across the Varied vegetation, altitudes from sea Northern Mockingbird globe can spot a multitude of species level to more than 8,000 feet, rainfall including swallowtails, whites and sul- is the official state bird. from less than ten inches to more than phurs, gossamer-winged, metalmarks, 55 inches annually, and a strategic posi- Heliconians, monarch, true brush-foots, tion on the North American continent emperors, leafwings and skippers . combine to provide a diversity of bird life For information and images unrivaled by any other state. In addition, of Texas butterflies, visit Texas’ large resident bird population is www.butterfliesandmoths.org . augmented by migrating species. The Panhandle Plains is home to horned larks, kites and prairie chickens. Its lakes attract mallard, wigeon and pintail migrant ducks. Rare Colima warblers, eagles, canyon wrens, desert-dwelling flycatchers and pelicans, egrets and roseate spoonbills, tiny verdins make their nests out west. plus the world’s few remaining whooping The Hill Country hosts flocks of wild cranes, which winter at the Aransas turkeys and almost countless resident National Wildlife Refuge. The Lower Rio and migrant species—including rare Grande Valley hosts tropical birds and is golden-cheeked warblers. Open terrain is the only place in the nation where such habitat for fleet-footed roadrunners. species as white-tipped doves, chachalacas The East Texas Piney Woods is home and green jays may be observed. to several eastern species, including the Texas is home to the Great Texas wood thrush, Acadian flycatcher and Wildlife Trails—Heart of Texas, Kentucky warbler. A few swallow-tailed Coastal Birding, Mountains and Basins, kites may live here and so might the Panhandle Plains, and Prairies and ivory-billed woodpecker,­ which was once Pineywoods trails. These driving trails thought to be extinct. across the state help birders and wildlife Out of more than 600 bird species iden- enthusiasts find the best viewing spots. tified in Texas, most have been sighted To learn more about the trails or The Lower Rio Grande Valley is a popular The great egret can be found near wetlands. along the Texas coastline. Numerous for information on trail maps, see birding region. One of the specialty birds, the shorebirds populate the region—gulls, www.tpwd.state.tx.us/birdingtrails. chachalaca is named after its raucous call.

30 | Quick LOOK TX Quick LOOK TX | 31 AREA TEXAS’ BOUNDARY extends 3,822 miles with Louisiana on the east, Arkansas­ on the northeast, Oklahoma on the north, on the west, and Mexico FACTS and the Gulf of Mexico on the south. The tidewater coastline extends 624 miles. Texas covers 268,596 square miles (land and water) according to the Statistical Abstract of the United States. Texas is as large as the following 10 states combined: Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio and North Carolina. Texas extends 801 straight-line miles from north to south and 773 miles from east to west. Brewster County, in West Texas, is the largest of the state’s 254 counties with 6,193 square miles, an area larger than the state of Connecticut. The smallest is the 149-square-mile Rockwall County, just east of Dallas. Caddo Lake in East Texas is the only natural lake in the state.

POPULATION Piney Woods area, which includes all Texas. According to the Office of the the U.S. Bureau of ACCORDING TO or part of 43 counties. The area includes Governor, Economic Development and the Census, Texas had an estimated four national forests totaling more than Tourism travelers spent $67 billion while 26,956,958 residents in 2014, ranking 637,000 acres and five state forests cover- traveling in Texas in 2014. This directly second among the 50 states. The state is ing more than 7,500 acres. supported 599,000 jobs, and generated home to six of the 25 largest U.S. cities. MOUNTAINS: Texas has 91 mountains $4.7 billion in state and local taxes. For From 2013 to 2014, Texas gained more —all in Trans Pecos region—that are a the year the gross domestic product people than any other state. mile or more high (one mile = 5,280 feet). (GDP) of the Texas travel industry The six largest Texas cities and their The state’s highest point, Guadalupe was $26.8 billion. populations based on 2013 estimates are: Peak, stands at 8,749 feet. Houston 2,195,914 RIVERS: The Rio Grande is the longest San Antonio 1,409,019 river in the state. It forms the inter- WEATHER Dallas 1,257,676 national boundary between Texas and Texas enjoys generally mild winters, Austin 885,400 Mexico and extends 1,254 miles along but the summers are hot . In July, Fort Worth 792,727 Texas. Other principal rivers are the Red El Paso 674,433 the average daytime high statewide River, Brazos, Colorado, Trinity, Sabine, is almost 96 degrees . Average Texas has 33 cities with a population Nueces, Neches, Pecos and Guadalupe. of 100,000 or more. annual rainfall varies from less than LAKES: Texas—second only to Alaska 9 inches in far West Texas to about in total area of inland water—has more 58 inches in parts of East Texas . TERRAIN than 4,959 square miles of lakes and THE STATE’S SURFACE ranges from sea streams. level to mountains more than a mile Toledo Bend Reservoir, between high. There are sun-baked deserts; rich, Texas and Louisiana, is the largest reser- ENERGY black farmlands; humid swamps; and voir in Texas or on its borders with more PETROLEUM: The first successful oil dramatic volcanic landscapes of basalt than 167,596 acres of surface area. well in Texas was drilled in 1866 near and granite.The table-flat Great Plains The largest body of water wholly with- Nacogdoches. fill much of the Texas Panhandle. Nearly in the state is , In 2012, 533 million barrels of crude as flat are the vast coastal plains along which has a surface area of 103,156 acres. oil and more than 7.1 trillion cubic feet of the Gulf of Mexico. East Texas is blan- Of Texas’ thousands of lakes and res- natural gas were produced from 270,082 keted with deep forests and, in the Texas ervoirs, Caddo Lake is the only natural producing wells, including 157,864 oil Hill Country, limestone hills give way to lake in the state. It was dammed in 1914, wells and 102,218 gas wells. The Rio Grande is the longest green river valleys. increasing its size to 28,167 acres. WIND: Texas leads the nation in river in the state. It forms FORESTS: Trees cover about 13 percent wind energy production and is tops in the international boundary of Texas’ total land area. Of the state’s 22 TRAVEL the nation for installed capacity—12,214 between Texas and Mexico. million acres of forests and woodlands, TRAVEL AND TOURISM is one of the most megawatts in June 2013, almost triple 12 million acres are in the East Texas important ‘export oriented’ industries in that of the next contender, Iowa.

32 | Quick LOOK TX Quick LOOK TX | 33 SYMBOLS TEXAS HAS DOZENS OF OFFICIAL STATE SYMBOLS AND “CAPITALS”—ALL DESIGNATED BY THE STATE LEGISLATURE .

OFFICIAL TEXAS SYMBOLS OFFICIAL CAPITAL Below are a few of Texas’ state symbols . DESIGNATIONS Some are well known, but did you know The Texas Legislature has designated that Texas has an official state dinosaur? many symbolic capitals all over the state . For a complete list of official Texas symbols, To see the complete list, go to www.tsl. see www.tsl.state.tx.us/ref/abouttx/ state.tx.us/ref/abouttx/capitals.html . symbols.html . Here are a few examples: THE OFFICIAL Nickname: Lone Star State STATE SONG Motto: Friendship “TEXAS, OUR TEXAS” Bird: Northern Mockingbird Texas is a major oil and gas producer. Texas, our Texas! Tree: Pecan All hail the mighty state! Flower: Bluebonnet Texas, our Texas! the nation with 46 railroads operating : So wonderful, so great! on more than 10,425 rail miles, carrying Large Mammal: Texas Longhorn Boldest and grandest, Houston is Texas’ largest city with a population of more than 2 million people. 379.3 million rail tons. withstanding ev’ry test; BY SEA: The state offers 11 deep water Small Mammal: Armadillo O empire wide and glorious, you stand Texas, home to the two largest wind average of 5.54 million bales since 1996. ports with channels at least 30 feet deep Flying Mammal: Mexican Free-tailed Bat supremely blest . farms in the world, plays such a signi­ Other major crops include corn, wheat, along the Gulf Coast, including the Port Dinosaur: Paluxysaurus Jonesi Prickly Pear in Sanderson ficant role in the energy markets that hay, nursery crops, rice and citrus. of Houston, which is ranked second in Prickly Pear Cactus Refrain Plant: it would rank sixth behind China, the RANCHING: Both in number and diver- the nation for total trade. God bless you, Texas, and Fruit: Texas Red Grapefruit Alligator Capital: Anahuac United States, Germany, Spain and India sity, Texas leads the nation in livestock BY AIR: There are 303 public-use keep you brave and strong Pepper: Jalapeño if the state stood as its own nation. with 16 million cattle and calves, more airports and three public-use heliports. Barbecue Capital: Lockhart Shell: Lightning Whelk That you may grow than twice as much as the next largest The state’s two largest airports— Bluebird Capital: Wills Point in power and worth rodeo AGRICULTURE producer. Texas produces 20 percent of Dallas-Fort Worth International and Sport: Cactus Capital: Sanderson thro’out the ages long . chili FARMING: Texas’ 247,500 farms and the nation’s beef cattle. George Bush Intercontinental in Dish: Catfish Capital: West Texas, O Texas! ranches cover about 80 percent of the Houston—rank No. 3 and No. 13, respec- Bison Herd: Texas State Bison Herd Citrus Capital: Weslaco at Caprock Canyons State Park Your freeborn single star state’s land area, or approximately INNOVATION tively, as the nation’s busiest airports by Crawfish Capital: Mauriceville total passengers served. Sends out its radiance 130.4 million acres. Agricultural produc- TEXAS IS HOME to many universi- Danish Capital: Danevang to nations near and far . tion and related items totaled an average ties and research institutions that are Kolache Capital: Caldwell Emblem of freedom, of $20 billion annually. global leaders in electronics, medicine, GROSS STATE PRODUCT it sets our hearts aglow Texas ranks first nationally in cotton biotechnology, aerospace, advanced mate- THE GROSS STATE product for Texas Pancake Capital: Hawkins With thoughts of San Jacinto production, with an annual cotton crop rials and energy. Additionally, the U.S. —the sum of value added from all Polka Capital: Fredericksburg and glorious Alamo . Patent & Trademark Office industries in the state—was estimated Pump Jack Capital: Electra shows that in 2013, 9,289 at $1,530.8 billion in fiscal year 2014. If Rodeo Capital: Mesquite Texas, dear Texas! patents were issued to Texas Texas were a nation, its economy (based From tyrant grip now free, Sausage Capital: Elgin residents. That places Texas on Gross Domestic Product) would rank Sunflower Capital: Hearne Shines forth in splendor second in the nation, behind as the 12th largest in the world. your star of destiny! California. Mother of heroes! INTERNATIONAL TRADE We come, your children true, TRANSPORTATION IN 2013, for the 12th year in a row, Texas STATE SEAL: Since the earliest days of Proclaiming our allegiance, BY LAND: Texas has 313,210 was the top exporting state in the nation, Texas, a five-pointed “lone star” has been our faith, our love for you . miles of public roads, which with more than $279.5 billion in exports, prominent among Texas symbols . The is more than any other state. according to U.S. Department of Com­ state seal, adopted as part of the 1845 THE OFFICIAL On this system are more than merce data. state constitution, features the lone star SALUTE TO THE a million signs and mark- The state’s top exports were petroleum, encircled by olive and live branches . The Congress of the Republic of Texas TEXAS STATE FLAG ers, as well as 668 rest areas coal products, chemicals, computer and adopted the lone star as its seal in and picnic areas maintained electronics, machinery and transporta- Honor the Texas Flag . December 1836 and added the olive and I pledge allegiance to thee, by the Texas Department of tion equipment. Mexico, , China, live oak branches in January 1839 . The Texas, one state under God, Transportation for the con- and the Netherlands were the one and indivisible . state seal is identical to the 1839 seal except venience and safety of the states top export recipients. In 2012, port that the word “State” has replaced “Republic ”. traveling public. The state’s level imports—mostly energy, machinery Wool and mohair are another Texas livestock product. railroad system is tops in and telecom/high technology equip- ment—totaled about $311.6 billion. 34 | Quick LOOK TX Quick LOOK TX | 35 ROADS

IGHWAY SAFETY relies on the willingness of drivers and this Texas-born program continues to to act responsibly, whether making a quick trip to the store grow thanks to a hardworking core or a cross-country excursion. Please be aware of the following of dedicated volunteers. That doesn’t mean the work is done, Texas highway laws: how­ever. With new Texans moving to the ★H Motor-vehicle operators must main- state every day, TxDOT understands how tain current liability insurance and be vital it is for new residents to recognize the able to show proof if requested by law true meaning of Don’t mess with Texas. To enforcement. address these concerns, the newest round ★ All occupants of cars and light trucks, of Don’t mess with Texas messaging regardless of age or seating position, emphasizes that litter goes in the trashcan, must wear seat belts. not on Texas roads. TxDOT’s DMWT ★ Car seats are required for children up program recently partnered with busi- to eight years old or who are less than nesses and distributed red, white, and four feet, nine inches in height. blue trash barrels to popular tourist ★ It is illegal (with certain exceptions attractions and venues across the state. such as parades and emergencies) Fifty-six barrels feature unique one-liners to operate an open-bed pickup truck, that tie into the can’s location, whether an open flatbed truck or an open flatbed programs come in. TxDOT’s Don’t mess suggesting a passerby to “two-step your trailer when children under the age of with Texas® litter prevention campaign trash over here” at a dancehall or asking 18 are occupying the bed of the truck or and the Adopt-a-Highway program work restaurant bystanders to “feed me.” trailer, regardless of the vehicle’s speed. closely with their grassroots partner, Don’t mess with Texas stepped up its ★ Open containers of alcohol are not Keep Texas Beautiful, to keep Texas engagement with Texans 16 to 34 through permitted in the passenger area of roads looking clean. an interactive, mobile-friendly website a motor vehicle. Since the TxDOT programs’ beginnings that allows visitors to find the trash cans ★ Motorcycle operators and passengers in the late 1980s, thousands of tons of trash across Texas, peruse old advertisements, must wear protective headgear that have been removed from Texas roadways. and create their own digital trash barrels. meets adopted standards. Exemptions­ According to the 2013 Visible Litter Study, Why is littering such a big deal? Not are allowed for persons over age 21 littering has decreased by 34 percent since only is it detrimental to the environment with certain health insurance and 2009, which saves taxpayers millions of and the safety of the traveling public, it’s training requirements. dollars in reduced litter pickups. also against the law. You could be fined up In fact, approximately 10 percent of to $500 for littering anything that weighs KEEPING THE roadways in Texas are adopted and main- less than five pounds. Toss anything heavi- ROADWAYS BEAUTIFUL tained by Adopt-a-Highway volunteers, er than five pounds, and you could face a While some rules of the road keep people which equates to an estimated $4 million fine of up to $2,000 and six months in jail. safe, others exist to keep roads free of lit- in taxpayer savings annually. Over 4,000 To order Don’t mess with Texas prod- ter. That’s where the Texas Department dedicated individuals and groups current- ucts, to adopt a highway and more, visit of Transportation’s litter prevention ly oversee adopted stretches of roadway, www.dontmesswithtexas.org.

36 | Quick LOOK TX Quick LOOK TX | 37 TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION P.O. Box 149249, Austin, TX 78714-9249