Cities and Towns in Cherokee County, Texas

Founded in 1846, Cherokee County is one of 254 counties in the state of Texas. Historically, Cherokee County was formed from Nacogdoches County. The city of Rusk is the county seat. With FIPS code of 73, Cherokee County has a population of 51,097 and area of 1,052 square miles (2,725 km²).

List of all cities in Cherokee County, TX alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Alto, TX	75925	936
Cove Spring, TX	75766	903/430
Cuney, TX	75759	903/430
Dialville, TX	75785	903/430
Enterprise, TX	75766	903/430
Forest, TX	75925	936
Gallatin, TX	75764	903/430
Jacksonville, TX	75766	903/430
Lake Jacksonville, TX	75766	903/430
Linwood, TX	75925	936
Maydelle, TX	75772	903/430
New Summerfield, TX	75780	903/430
Pierces Chapel, TX	75766	903/430
Pine Hill, TX	75766	903/430
Redlawn, TX	75925	936
Reese, TX	75766	903/430
Reklaw, TX	75784	936
Rusk, TX	75785	903/430
Tecula, TX	75766	903/430
Turney, TX	75766	903/430
Wells, TX	75976	936

Major Cities and Towns in Cherokee County, Texas

Jacksonville

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:

• Area: 21.3 square miles
• Population: 14,500+
• Zip Codes: 75766, 75767
• Latitude: 31.9635° N
• Longitude: 95.2477° W

Location and History:

Jacksonville is the county seat of Cherokee County, located in the northeastern part of Texas. The city was founded in the early 19th century and named after President Andrew Jackson. Jacksonville developed as a center for trade and agriculture, particularly due to its location on the Texas and Pacific Railroad, which facilitated the movement of goods like cotton, cattle, and timber. The city experienced substantial growth during the late 1800s, becoming an important regional hub. Jacksonville has a rich history tied to its agriculture, especially the production of peaches. The area became known as the “Peach Capital of Texas” in the early 1900s, with peach orchards playing a major role in the town’s economy. Though the peach industry has diminished, Jacksonville remains an agricultural center, producing crops like corn, soybeans, and peanuts. The town’s deep history is reflected in its many historic buildings, and Jacksonville has preserved much of its early architecture while also embracing modern growth.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Jacksonville is served by the Jacksonville Independent School District (ISD), which includes Jacksonville High School, Jacksonville Junior High School, and Eastside and Westside Elementary Schools. The district is known for its academic success and a strong sports program, particularly in football and basketball. Major landmarks in Jacksonville include the Cherokee County Courthouse, a historical building that serves as a symbol of the town’s governance and heritage. The Annual Jacksonville Tomato Festival celebrates the region’s agricultural roots and is a major local event featuring live music, food, and family-friendly activities. Lake Jacksonville, a popular recreational area, offers fishing, boating, and picnicking opportunities. Additionally, Jacksonville is home to the Norman Activity Center, which provides a range of community programs and activities. Jacksonville’s peaceful, small-town atmosphere, combined with its agricultural history and modern amenities, make it an appealing location for both residents and visitors.

Rusk

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:

• Area: 6.4 square miles
• Population: 5,500+
• Zip Codes: 75785
• Latitude: 31.8426° N
• Longitude: 95.1667° W

Location and History:

Rusk is a city located in central Cherokee County, Texas. It was founded in 1846 and named after Thomas Jefferson Rusk, a key figure in the early history of Texas and a signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence. Rusk became an important town during the early days of the Republic of Texas and continued to grow as a regional center. The city was a crucial point on the stagecoach routes and was known for its vibrant economy, driven by agriculture and the lumber industry. One of the city’s most significant historical events was the construction of the Rusk Penitentiary in the mid-1800s, which provided jobs for the local population. Though the prison was closed in the 1980s, the site remains a key part of Rusk’s history. The town’s economy diversified as the railroad and highway systems developed, bringing trade and commerce to the area. Rusk is known for its natural beauty and outdoor attractions, including its proximity to Caddo Mounds State Historic Site and the Angelina National Forest.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Rusk is served by the Rusk Independent School District (ISD), which includes Rusk High School, Rusk Junior High, and Rusk Elementary School. The district has a reputation for providing solid academic programs and extracurricular activities. One of the town’s major landmarks is the Rusk State Park, a scenic area that offers hiking, camping, and fishing opportunities. The Rusk Depot, a historic railroad station, is another notable landmark, symbolizing Rusk’s role as a transportation hub in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Caddo Mounds State Historic Site, located just outside Rusk, is an important archaeological site showcasing the remains of the Caddo Native American culture. The Texas State Railroad, which operates a historic steam train ride between Rusk and Palestine, is a popular tourist attraction that gives visitors a glimpse into the region’s railroad history. These landmarks, combined with the area’s natural beauty, make Rusk a charming town with a unique blend of history and outdoor recreation.

Alto

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:

• Area: 1.6 square miles
• Population: 1,300+
• Zip Codes: 75925
• Latitude: 31.8030° N
• Longitude: 95.3562° W

Location and History:

Alto is a small town located in the southwestern part of Cherokee County, Texas. Founded in the mid-1800s, Alto’s early history was influenced by its location along the Old San Antonio Road and its proximity to rich natural resources like timber and agriculture. The town developed as a key trading post for settlers traveling through East Texas and soon became a regional center for local commerce. Alto was officially incorporated in 1883 and, like many towns in Texas, experienced growth during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, thanks to its agriculture and timber industries. Cotton, corn, and livestock were primary drivers of the town’s economy. Alto also benefited from the railroad expansion, which helped bring goods to market. Today, Alto maintains its small-town charm and has grown steadily while preserving its historic past. The town is known for its strong community spirit and quiet, rural atmosphere.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Alto is served by the Alto Independent School District (ISD), which includes Alto High School, Alto Junior High, and Alto Elementary School. The district provides a strong educational foundation, with a focus on community involvement and academic achievement. Notable landmarks in Alto include the Alto Historic District, which showcases the town’s late-19th and early-20th-century architecture. The Alto City Park is another key feature, offering sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas for families. The town’s proximity to the Davy Crockett National Forest provides access to hiking, camping, and wildlife watching opportunities. Alto is also home to Lake Livingston, a popular spot for fishing and boating activities. The Peach Festival, celebrated annually in Alto, honors the region’s agricultural heritage and includes live music, parades, and local craft booths. The town’s combination of outdoor recreation, history, and community-focused living makes it an attractive place to visit and live.