Text for an article about the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center in Athens that was published in the June 1999 issue of Texas Highways magazine.

Discover the historic charm of TARA INN at Tara Vineyard & Winery, the oldest winery in Henderson County, lovingly owned and operated by the Pierce family. Nestled among vibrant vineyards, this turn-of-the-century house, originally constructed in the 1880s and relocated from downtown Athens, beckons with its white majesty. The Inn offers four spacious guest rooms, a luxurious spa bathroom with a large Jacuzzi tub, and a grand wrap-around porch and terraces overlooking the scenic vineyard landscapes. Indulge in a timeless escape and experience the allure of TARA INN amidst the beauty of Tara Vineyard & Winery.

Discover the historic charm of TARA INN at Tara Vineyard & Winery, the oldest winery in Henderson County, lovingly owned and operated by the Pierce family. Nestled among vibrant vineyards, this turn-of-the-century house, originally constructed in the 1880s and relocated from downtown Athens, beckons with its white majesty. The Inn offers four spacious guest rooms, a luxurious spa bathroom with a large Jacuzzi tub, and a grand wrap-around porch and terraces overlooking the scenic vineyard landscapes. Indulge in a timeless escape and experience the allure of TARA INN amidst the beauty of Tara Vineyard & Winery.

Discover the historic charm of TARA INN at Tara Vineyard & Winery, the oldest winery in Henderson County, lovingly owned and operated by the Pierce family. Nestled among vibrant vineyards, this turn-of-the-century house, originally constructed in the 1880s and relocated from downtown Athens, beckons with its white majesty. The Inn offers four spacious guest rooms, a luxurious spa bathroom with a large Jacuzzi tub, and a grand wrap-around porch and terraces overlooking the scenic vineyard landscapes. Indulge in a timeless escape and experience the allure of TARA INN amidst the beauty of Tara Vineyard & Winery.

Capture the essence of refined indulgence in the wine tasting room at Tara Vineyard & Winery. Illuminated by the warm glow of candles, this enchanting space exudes a timeless charm with its old wooden furniture and rustic allure. Adorning the walls, wooden racks showcase a curated collection of wine bottles, waiting to be savored. Embrace the ambience of sophistication and embark on a delightful journey of flavors as you immerse yourself in the art of wine tasting at Tara Vineyard & Winery.

Step into the heart of Texas as a talented cowboy musician, donning his iconic outfit, fills the air with melodious tunes from his guitar and soulful vocals outside the historic Henderson County Courthouse. As he claps along, supporting fellow musicians, the gathering becomes a lively celebration of music, community, and the rich cultural heritage that echoes throughout the Lone Star State.

In this close-up photograph, a man sporting a stylish cowboy hat and glasses captivates with his musical prowess as he skillfully plays the violin. His soulful melodies resonate through the air, transporting listeners to a world of heartfelt emotions and captivating tunes.

Behold a mesmerizing sight as the aquarium showcases an abundance of colorful and diverse fishes bustling within a fishing net display. Witness the captivating marine life up close, showcasing the beauty and vibrancy of underwater ecosystems, leaving you in awe of nature's wonders.

Behold the thriving fish population in the outdoor ponds of the Texas hatchery, where millions of fingerlings are nurtured annually to enhance the state's fishing experience. Witness the careful cultivation of various species, including largemouth bass and catfish, as they grow and flourish in the spacious and well-maintained ponds.

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking world of marine life as the aquarium unveils a vibrant display of fishes thriving within a fishing net exhibit. Witness the captivating beauty and diversity of underwater ecosystems, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

Uncover the historic charm of TARA INN at Tara Vineyard & Winery, Henderson County's oldest winery, lovingly owned by the Pierce family. Nestled amidst lush vineyards, this majestic turn-of-the-century house, originally built in the 1880s and relocated from downtown Athens, exudes elegance in its white facade. The Inn boasts four spacious guest rooms, a luxurious spa bathroom with a large Jacuzzi tub, and a sweeping wrap-around porch and terraces, providing captivating views of the picturesque vineyard landscapes. Immerse yourself in a timeless escape and embrace the allure of TARA INN amidst the enchanting ambiance of Tara Vineyard & Winery.

TARA INN, nestled within the captivating Tara Vineyard & Winery, invites you to step into a world of timeless elegance. As the oldest winery in Henderson County, cherished by the Pierce family, this turn-of-the-century house, originally built in the 1880s and relocated from downtown Athens, offers a majestic white facade. With four spacious guest rooms, a luxurious spa bathroom featuring a large Jacuzzi tub, and a grand wrap-around porch and terraces overlooking scenic vineyard landscapes, TARA INN provides a perfect retreat for guests seeking tranquility and enchanting allure.

Step into a world of natural wonders and historical charm at the East Texas Arboretum and Botanical Society in Athens, Texas. Wander through over 100 acres of lush gardens and diverse landscapes, including butterfly, herb, native plant, and rose gardens. As you explore the scenic two-mile hiking trails, you'll come across delightful surprises like the whimsical scarecrow welcoming you with open arms. Embrace the beauty of nature and the rich history of the site, featuring a collection of historical buildings and a tranquil water garden.

Embark on a delightful gastronomic journey in Athens, Texas, where the harmonious combination of velvety cheesecake and crunchy walnuts awaits you. Treat your taste buds to the symphony of flavors as you relish each bite of this walnut topped cheesecake. From the creamy goodness to the nutty indulgence, this exquisite dessert promises to be a delectable highlight of your culinary adventure in Athens, Texas.

In Athens, Texas, a lively festival scene comes to life as three musicians play guitar and violin under a tree, surrounded by a joyful crowd. The air is filled with melodies, laughter, and celebration.

Witness the captivating synergy of seasoned and young musicians as they gather under a rustic wooden shed in Athens, Texas. With a harmonious blend of three guitars and a violin, the band delivers a mesmerizing performance, captivating the crowd and creating an unforgettable musical experience.

Step into a realm of rustic enchantment in this captivating photograph of a couple posing in a dining room at a hidden gem in Athens, Texas. The all-wooden interiors exude warmth and charm, adorned with an eclectic array of art pieces, including fishes and deer heads, creating a perfect harmony between nature and sophistication. Amidst the inviting ambiance, a captivating antler chandelier casts a mesmerizing glow, illuminating the carefully crafted wooden furniture and the exquisitely decorated dining table, promising an unforgettable and intimate dining experience in the heart of East Texas.

In this captivating photograph, a couple strikes a pose in a beautifully crafted wooden dining room in Athens, Texas. The room exudes rustic elegance with its artful displays of fish and deer heads adorning the walls, while a stunning antler chandelier takes center stage, casting a warm glow over the well-appointed wooden furniture and intricately decorated dining table. This inviting setting promises a delightful and intimate dining experience amidst the charm of East Texas.

Indulge your taste buds with a slice of heaven at Athens, Texas, as you savor the divine flavors of a walnut topped cheesecake. This delectable dessert features a luscious creamy texture, perfectly complemented by the rich, nutty crunch of walnuts. Whether you're a connoisseur of cheesecakes or a curious foodie, this delightful treat promises to be a memorable culinary experience in the heart of Athens, Texas.

Behold the captivating Ipomoea purpurea, commonly known as the morning-glory, tall morning-glory, or purple morning glory. Native to the enchanting lands of Mexico and Central America, this species in the genus Ipomoea presents a mesmerizing sight with its entwining tendrils reaching heights of 2–3 m (6 ft 7 in – 9 ft 10 in). The heart-shaped leaves and stems adorned with brown hairs add to its allure. Delicate, trumpet-shaped flowers, ranging from shades of blue to purple or white, with diameters of 3–6 cm (1.2–2.4 in), further enhance the elegance of this floral wonder.

Witness the magical encounter of a black butterfly gracefully perched on a vibrant Cosmos sulphureus - orange cosmos flower at the stunning botanical garden in Athens, Texas. Delight in the enchanting Cosmic Orange variety, which thrives in the radiant glow of the sun, reaching a height of 12-22 inches. Revel in the abundance of bright orange 2-inch blooms that adorn these vigorous and disease-resistant plants all summer long. With its adaptability and ease of growth, Cosmic Orange is truly a sight to behold in this picturesque garden oasis.

Delight in the heartwarming scene outside the Henderson County Courthouse as two talented women, one strumming a guitar and the other gracefully playing a violin, fill the air with enchanting harmonies. Their joyful expressions and shared passion for music create a captivating moment that leaves onlookers enchanted by their melodic performance.

This captivating photograph captures the beauty of a flower bed nestled under the protective shade of a towering tree at the botanical garden. The vibrant colors of the blooming flowers complement the lush greenery surrounding them. In the background, the historic Wofford House, dating back to 1850, adds a touch of nostalgia to the tranquil scene, inviting visitors to explore its restored charm and delightful culinary and medicinal gardens.

Amidst the lush green plants at the East Texas Arboretum lies a serene natural waterfall, offering a tranquil respite and enchanting visitors with its soothing sounds and verdant beauty. A picturesque oasis where nature's artistry flourishes, inviting all to embrace its enduring allure.