by City of Ennis
Discover Ennis: A Historic Texas Town Full of Charm
Nestled in Ellis County, Ennis, Texas, is a town steeped in history, blending small-town charm with a vibrant scene. Known for its year-round festivals and events, Ennis offers something for everyone. From its famed hay maze and pumpkin patch to the month-long bluebonnet trails and the lively National Polka Festival, there’s always something happening in this lively town.
A Town Built on Railroads and Cotton
Ennis was founded in 1872 as a railroad town when the Houston and Texas Central Railroad chose the area as its northern terminus. Over the years, the town developed around two key industries: railroads and cotton.
- Established in 1872: Ennis was named after Cornelius Ennis, a railroad official and former mayor of Houston.
- Railroad Hub: The town quickly became a vital stop on the Houston and Texas Central Railroad, fueling its growth and economic prosperity.
- Cotton Economy: By the late 1800s, Ennis had become a key center for cotton processing, with numerous gins and related industries
Take a Step Back in Time with the Rails, Bales, and Bluebonnet Trails Tour
To fully experience Ennis’ rich history, take the Rails, Bales, and Bluebonnet Trails, a free mobile audio walking tour. Download the Ennis Y’all app, and discover 20 historic sites that tell the story of the town’s fascinating past.
Key Stops on the Tour:
- Ennis Railroad Museum (105 NE Main):
- Housed in a 1915 railroad meal station, the museum explores Ennis’ railroad heritage.
- Hear stories about President Taft’s visit, the dramatic 1913 kidnapping of Ginger Rogers, and more.
- Trade Days/Underpass Town Center (SW Corner, Ennis Ave & W Main St):
- This site marks the heart of early Ennis commerce, where the town’s first cotton exchange thrived.
- The nearby Moore Building, once the hub of cotton trading, offers a glimpse into Ennis’ economic rise.
Notable Historic Highlights
Ennis has a colorful history filled with fascinating events and personalities. Some of the town’s most notable moments include:
- President Taft’s Visit (1909): William Howard Taft passed through Ennis on his way to Houston, marking the town’s importance as a railroad hub.
- Ginger Rogers’ Kidnapping (1913): Hollywood star Ginger Rogers was famously kidnapped at Ennis’ train station in a dramatic custody battle.
- FDR’s Campaign Stop (1930s): President Franklin D. Roosevelt made an impromptu campaign speech from the back of his train in Ennis.
Experience Ennis Today
Next time you visit Ennis, download the Ennis Y’all app and take a self-guided tour through time. Discover the town’s railroad roots, its cotton industry heritage, and the unique stories that have shaped this charming Texan town.
Ennis seamlessly blends the old and the new, offering a rich historical experience along with its modern-day charm. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just looking to explore a vibrant downtown with unique shopping, dining and a live theatre, Ennis has something special to offer.