PARIS

Population 24,965

Altitude 592

General

Founded 1839 on divide between Red and Sulpher Rivers; became seat of Lamar County 1844; settled by diverse frontier society including Sam Bell Maxey, West Point graduate, attorney and Confederate General. Retired outlaw Frank James (brother of Jesse) clerked in a local dry goods store. Home of John Chisum, who became one of the West's foremost cattle barons. Notorious frontier outlaw queen, Belle Starr, tended a farm near town.

The Paris Visitors and Convention Council at 1651 Clarksville St. will provide walking and driving tour maps that include some 34 points of interest, including the 1920's downtown architecture and historic sites.

Today a commercial/marketing center for fertile agricultural region; home of Paris Junior College.

Attractions

• A.M. AND WELMA AIKIN ARCHIVES-Replica of Senator Aikin's Austin office; mementos of his 46 year career, much of which was devoted to Texas education; also historical archives for Delta, Fannin, Lamar, and Red River Counties. Open Mon.-Thurs. 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; Fri. 8 a.m.-noon. In Mike Rheudasil Learning Center, Paris Junior College.
• EVERGREEN CEMETERY-Dating from 1866, large cemetery contains more than 40,000 graves, including many early Texas patriots. Many unusual, handsome carved headstones and monuments. S. Church St. at Jefferson Rd.
• HAYDEN MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART-Four galleries, the largest of which houses permanent collection of graphic art, archival photography, and American chairs. Southwest Gallery has Native American emphasis, and other galleries are for changing exhibitions. Open Tues. at 7 p.m.; Wed., Sat., Sun. at 1:30 p.m. 930 Cardinal Ln. 903/785-1925
• SAM BELL MAXEY STATE HISTORICAL STRUCTURE-Gem of Victorian architecture built by Confederate General Maxey 1868, occupied by family for almost a century. Restored and furnished as state historic site. Maxeys were avid gardeners; restoration includes landscaped grounds and small Victorian garden in original dimensions. Guided tours; open Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 812 S. Church St.; admission.

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