Historical Markers in Texas

Jefferson Turn Basin

History·Marion County·Texas

Wide, deep lagoon in Cypress Bayou, used for turning around ships in Gulf-Red River trade. First steamer to reach here was the "Lama" in 1844, by way of Red River, which for 200 miles above Shreveport was clogged by a "raft" of debris that had begun forming about 1529. Cypress Bayou thus was best travel route into Oklahoma, western Arkansas and north Texas. Until Federal government in 1873 removed the raft, Jefferson was southwest's greatest inland port, with this basin its business center. Last steamer operated here in 1903.

Getting there

32.7569, -94.3460

Locations are approximate and may be inaccurate, on private land, or otherwise inaccessible. Check before you travel.

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