CAMERON

Population 5,591

Altitude 402.

General

A small town in rich agricultural area of Milam County settled by a diverse group of pioneers in the 1840s. Town named for Ewen Cameron, a Scot Highlander prominent in the Texas Revolution; county named for another independence fighter, Ben Milam, whose statue is on the courthouse grounds. It's not unusual to hear Czech, German, and Spanish - mingled with distinctive Texas drawls - still being spoken by some Cameron residents.

Cameron lies on Texas 36, a segment of the ports to Plains Highway connecting the state's heartland to coastal ports.

Attractions

• CITY PARK - An 1890 pavilion still stands today for band concerts, meetings, and rallies. Site of 1892 gubernatorial debate between James S. Hogg and George Clark. Historical marker marks boyhood home of L.S. "Sul" Ross, former Texas governor and president of Texas A&M University Intersection of U.S. 190, Texas 36, and U.S. 77.
• MAGNOLIA HOUSE - Restored Victorian home of astonishing beauty, "may be the finest home of its size and type in the country," says the Texas Historical Commission. Built in 1895, every piece of lumber hand picked for rarity and beauty of grain. Elaborate wall paneling, wood carvings, gingerbread fretwork; authentically furnished. Great American Home Award from the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Open Mon., There., Fri., Sat. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 502 North Travis Street. 817-697-4395. Admission.
• MILAN COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM - Housed in restored county jail, c.1895, complete with cells, shackles, and gallows tower. Exhibits of pioneer farm and ranch equipment, rustic household furnishings, and Spartan "fashions" of the frontier. Also Indian artifacts, ranch and trail driving tack, cowboy gear, and weapons. Open 1 to 5 p.m. Tues. - Sat. at Main and Fannin Streets, downtown.
• WEID HARDWARE - Operating since 1880s, store retains rustic; country store atmosphere; many items still in stock since earliest days. 413 West Batte Street.

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