Located in beautiful east Texas, Tyler is the perfect choice for your next move. From the world famous Tyler Rose Garden and Azalea-coated neighborhoods to championship golf courses, antique districts and nationally registered museums and historic districts, those moving to Tyler will discover a uniquely stress-free atmosphere, coupled with tight knit communities and accessibility to one of the country's premier big cities.
History:
The city of Tyler was officially incorporated in 1848. The county grew rapidly in population and wealth throughout the decade that preceded the Civil War, with a large portion of the population immigrating from Alabama. By 1850, seven private schools were established in Smith County and by 1860, 982 students attended thirty-one schools. The Civil War brought a flurry of activity to Smith County as the entire population was caught up in the excitement. Over 1,500 Smith County men served in the armed forces of the Confederacy or the State of Texas on battlefields from Arizona to Pennsylvania. Nearly 15,000 confederate troops were stationed in camps around Tyler in the spring and summer of 1862 preparing to march to the front in Arkansas. Following the Civil War, Smith County began another period of rapid agricultural growth that continued through the turn of the century. The Great Depression missed Tyler in the 1930s thanks to the discovery of the great East Texas Oil Field in 1930. Thousands of workers and developers set up drilling rigs and work camps in the area. The population of Tyler and Smith County swelled as jobs became available in oil and other service industries. World War II had an enormous impact on Smith County, very similar to that of the Civil War. The postwar years brought renewed prosperity to Smith County. Smith County and Tyler continue to develop after more than 150 years in East Texas. Additional businesses and retirees relocate into the area each year because of the quality of life found there. With rapid growth and expansion has come an increased awareness among residents and visitors of the historic significance and charm to be found in the area. Dwellings, businesses, and even the brick streets are being restored to their former appearance as parts of Tyler's downtown and older residential districts return to the beauty of the past.
Economy:
Even in difficult economic times, Tyler's diverse economy remains robust with its base in the manufacturing, retail, oil and gas, education and health care industries. In addition, Tyler's long association with the rose and nursery industry provides stability and growth. Its up-to-date Tyler Pounds Regional Airport provides rapid connections to all of the country. Texas is one of the few states to have a healthy budget in 2011. The positive implications of balanced budgets for Texas, and Tyler, are huge. In addition, Tyler was not caught up in the unrealistic real estate markets that have plagued other parts of the nation. Most Texas banks retain conservation banking principles. In-migration continues for Texas and Tyler, and more residents are added on a regular basis. In short, Tyler has in the past, and will continue to survive, and thrive, in the current economic crisis far better than other areas. The East Texas area supports a large number of jobs and careers in the oil, petrochemical, natural gas, drilling and refining business sectors. Other major job markets include the medical sector, manufacturing, education, grocery distribution, retail distribution, air conditioning equipment manufacturing and banking.
Tourism:
Tyler's charming brick streets will lead you to an array of family attractions, quaint antique shops and unique specialty stores. Outdoor buffs enjoy crystal-clear lakes, challenging golf courses, scenic campgrounds that offer fishing, picnicking, paddle boating and hike and bike trails. For family fun, head over to the Caldwell Zoo, where you and your loved ones will experience more than 2000 animals from 250 species from Africa, North and South America live in natural habitats at the 85-acre park. Next, the Discovery Science Place and Hudnall Planetarium are ideal places for children of all ages to enjoy a day of learning and exploring. The American Freedom Museum is offers 15,000 square feet of galleries containing an amazing collection of over 600 artifacts and documents from the breadth of our nation's history. Finally, Cherokee Trace Drive Thru Safari Park is where you can enjoy a leisurely, self-guided drive through the hills and open savanna of the 300-acre preserve. From the comfort of your own vehicle, observe, feed and photograph some of the earth's most beautiful creatures.