By Kelly Burns
trip to Jefferson, Tx., to enjoy the city’s charms and delights is always a good idea, but if you’re looking for a reason to put it on your calendar this month, here it is – the Historic Jefferson Pilgrimage is celebrating its 75th Diamond Jubilee, April 28 - May 1. The annual Pilgrimage kicks off the event with the production of the 68th Diamond Bessie Murder Trial and follows up with events and activities each day, including a parade, Historic Home and Twilight Garden Tours, and an expanded Craft Fair.
Sponsored by the Jessie Allen Wise Garden Club, the Pilgrimage is designed to highlight the beauty and history of Jefferson. “It is a family-oriented event with something of interest for visitors of all ages, be it Pilgrimage events or all that Jefferson has to offer,” Pilgrimage chairman Mary Keasler said. “Enjoy the Quilt exhibit in the Presbyterian Church, tour Jay Gould’s private rail car the Atalanta, named for the goddess of speed. Be thrilled by the Presentation of Colors on Pilgrimage Sunday in front of the Episcopal Church.” A salad luncheon and heirloom plant sale are also on the list of activities you will want to attend. Tickets for individual events can be purchased in advance online at www.jeffersonpilgrimage.com.
Diamond Bessie Murder Trial
April 28 - 29, 7:30 pm; April 30, 5:30 & 8:30 pm; May 1, 2 pm The 68th Diamond Bessie Murder Trial, a captivating drama about a murder and subsequent trial which occurred in Jefferson in 1877, has five showtimes. A special feature of the performance will be an encore appearance by actor Mickey Kuhn, the last surviving credited cast member of the motion picture Gone With the Wind. Advanced ticket purchase is strongly advised.
Heritage Quilt Exhibit
April 29 – 30, 10 am - 4 pm The quilt exhibit will be held in the beautifully restored Cumberland Presbyterian Church. The exhibit is free and open to the public.
Craft Fair and Sale
April 29 - 30, 9 am - 5 pm; May 1, 9 am - 3 pm Stroll through and shop the Craft Fair and Sale set up in William Perry Park.
Plant Sale
April 29 – 30, 9 am – 5 pm The Jessie Allen Wise Garden Club’s plant sale will have many plants, some of which have been started from cuttings of local heirloom plants by members of the club.
Pilgrimage Parade
April 30, 10 am An array of floats, old cars, buggies, bands, and horses will make its way through Jefferson. Mike and Carla Riordan will be the Grand Marshal.
Jay Gould Railroad Car
Visit the Atalanta, the private rail car of notorious railroad baron Jay Gould of New York City. Discover how the uniquely furnished car built in 1886 ended up in Jefferson.
Home and Garden Tours
April 29 – 30, 11 am - 5 pm Four historic homes – The Beard House, The Homestead House, The House of the Seasons, and Singleton’s Virginia Cross Home – will offer tours by docents dressed in period costumes. Four gardens – the Blair Garden, Lisa’s Garden, Wise Manor Garden, and the Jones Garden – will be open for visitors to enjoy.
Pilgrimage Grand Ballroom & Courtyard Luncheon
April 30, 11 am - 1 pm After the parade, lunch will be served in the Grand Ballroom and Courtyard of the Excelsior House. The salad luncheon is provided and served by Jessie Allen Wise Garden Club members. Reservations for this luncheon are encouraged; online ticket sales will end April 22.
Other Attractions
Boat tours of the Big Cypress Bayou will be available. Walk along the brick streets of Jefferson, shop in the many unique shops, visit the museums or take a ride on a historic train. Enjoy a one hour guided shuttle tour of Jefferson, stay in historic hotels or in a bed and breakfast – all are available for your enjoyment.
For more information visit jeffersonpilgrimage.com or call 903.452.3836.