Picturesque Gregg County – the hub of East Texas! The county, located 120 miles east of Dallas and only 60 miles west of the Louisiana line, is surrounded by beautiful lakes for fishing, picnicking, swimming, water skiing and camping. Tall stately pines grace the area and make it green the entire year ‘round.
Of special interest is the Kilgore College Rangerette Museum (home of the famed Kilgore Rangerettes) and the unique Oil Museum, both located in Kilgore – only nine miles from Longview, Gregg County’s county seat. The Gregg County Museum is one of the finest; of special interest here are numerous stories and pictures about the “famous bank robbery of the First National Bank” in Longview by the Dalton Gang in 1894. Many other interesting facts and displays of early Longview/Gregg County can also be found here. Of further appeal are the many antique shopping malls, with nearby Gladewater known as having one of the best.
“Gusher Days” is an event held here each year. Several other regular malls make shopping enjoyable. Also notable is Longview’s newly “remodeled” downtown area. Several great shops are housed here, along with an exceptional Crafter’s Mini Mall. You can top off a day of shopping by having dinner at one of the specialty restaurants downtown.
The Gregg County Courthouse stands proud in downtown Longview. Built in 1932, the west wing was added in 1982. It is one of the most beautiful, well-maintained courthouses in Texas. The grounds are dotted with historic pecan trees and colorful azaleas. Visitors are always welcome to tour our courthouse and “stop in” the county judge’s office any time. You will always be welcome.
During the year, several events have endeared Gregg County to many. In June, Alley Fest (held in downtown Longview) is an event everyone looks forward to. In July, the Great Texas Balloon Race is held at the county’s own East Texas Regional Airport. Other events of interest are: Kilgore’s Texas Shakespeare Festival, Longview Symphony, Ballet, Theater and Opera, the Gladewater PRCA Rodeo and White Oak Roughneck Days. There’s fun for everyone! Come visit us and see for yourself. We’re proud of our county! –County Judge Bill Stoudt