Hampton Inn Tyler

Camp Ford Texas Historical Marker

by ATXtraveler

During a recent trip to Tyler, I stopped in to the Camp Ford Monument, where I was able to see this historical marker.

Camp Ford was originally a training camp for Confederate Soldiers, who turned this into a Prisoner of War camp after victories in Louisiana and Arkansas. It was effective since it was so far away from Union lines.

For more information, visit the Camp Ford website.

Tyler,Texas--Come for the Azalea and Rose Festival

by VeronicaG

"Flowers, Flowers and more Flowers...."

Tyler, Texas is located approximately 126 miles from the Dallas/Ft. Worth metroplex and was named in honor of President John Tyler.

As we traveled 80-E and then 20-E. we passed by Mesquite--Home of the Jack Rabbits, then Forney--known for its numerous antique shops. As we sped along the highway, patches of deep pink RED BUD and the verdant green of the forest were in evidence. Spring has come to Texas!

Cattle in colors of black, brown and tan and a few horses dotted the greening pastures. Fifty miles outside of Tyler even a few camels could be seen grazing behind fences. Yes...camels!

We were being drawn to this town of over 89,000 people to see the azaleas. The Tyler Azalea Festival is held each year in March/April and heralds the blooming of countless flowers along an eight mile route in one of the districts of town appropriately named, the Azalea District.

The town webpage keeps track of the various stages of blooming and alerts the public. We were a bit early for a full-blossomed display, but we did see some brilliantly colored azaleas and took this opportunity to acquaint ourselves with some of the attractions Tyler offers.

One of these sites is the Tyler Municipal Rose Garden, featuring roses, camellias, an Idea Garden and more. I'd like to visit Tyler during the height of the rose display because I've heard the fragrance is out of this world! A Rose Festival is held in October each year.

Tyler is located in the PINEY WOODS District of Texas.