The arboretum is open to the public, and everyone is invited to enjoy this beautiful oasis. So come on out and experience the unique beauty, learn about the ecological importance of America’s native flora and enjoy two miles of naturalistic hiking trails, live honeybees and our historic Wofford House Museum. The arboretum is dedicated to the preservation of the natural environment and the creation of formal and informal plant collections arranged in formal and informal gardens and a native plant area with nature trails.
We can all learn to become a source of inspiration and guidance for others who would like to help preserve our priceless natural resources. You are invited to become a member of the East Texas Arboretum to support the goal of educating the public and know you are making the world a better place through your support of environmental stewardship. To schedule tours, rent facilities and receive more arboretum information call the office at 903-675-5630.
Pets:
While the arboretum is pet friendly, the City of Athens’ leash law does apply, NO exceptions because the arboretum is inside the city limits and for the comfort and safety of other guests! Please keep your pets out of the garden areas and pick up after them in landscaped areas. Be responsible, respect and obey the law. Thank you!
Arboretum operations are funded through annual memberships, admission, generous donations, fundraising events and rentals. Your membership and generous contributions are greatly appreciated.
Attractions:
Little Red School House
The Little Red School House is open only by special request (scheduled in advance).
Constructed in 2007 through a generous contribution from the Monkhouse family, the Little Red School House is a replica of an early Texas School House.
Wofford House
Built in 1850 on the Wofford homestead in east Henderson County, the B.W.J. Wofford home was moved to the arboretum in 2001. It has been restored as a museum with the help of generous grants from the Cain Foundation, the Hillcrest Foundation and the Texas Historical Foundation, as well as contributions from many friends of the arboretum. The Wofford House, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Buildings, is built in the Texas dog trot architectural style.
Discovery Barn
Sant Miller Barn is a two-stall family milking barn, built circa 1890 by Edwin Payne “Sant” Miller (1867 – 1926). The barn was donated to the East Texas Arboretum by Janice Miller and restored and dedicated in the summer of 2008.
Gardens and Trails
The arboretum trails include over two miles of semi-rugged terrain. The Hickory Loop trail was renamed in 2020 in honor of Carl D. Frentress, who helped shape much of the natural area. The arboretum also contains hundreds of flower and plant species, many native to North East Texas.
1601 Patterson Rd., Athens, TX 75751 – (Hwy 175 inside Loop 7)
(903) 675-5630
www.easttexasarboretum.org for more information