Vibrant festivities unfold in Mount Vernon as the community commemorates the Bankhead Highway Centennial. This historic highway, once named "The Broadway of America," is deeply intertwined with the town's identity, serving as its Main Street. Amongst the revelry, a captivating mural depicting the towering silhouette of Henry Clay Thruston adds to the charm, while jubilant locals don playful costumes, celebrating their rich heritage with joy and pride.

Step back in time on the Original Texas Road Trip along the historic Bankhead Highway in Mount Vernon. Follow County Road 2025, a picturesque dirt trail enveloped by a lush tree canopy, evoking nostalgia for a bygone era. Join the Bankhead Highway Centennial Vintage Car Tour, where classic cars traverse the scenic landscape, offering a delightful journey into the past.

Draft of an article about Bankhead Highway that was published in the October 2015 issue of Texas Highways magazine.

Step into the Old Fire Station Museum and be transported to a bygone era as you encounter a poignant exhibit featuring a mannequin of a little boy proudly donning a military hat. This 1940 WPA-financed firestation houses an array of captivating permanent and rotating displays, including the renowned Don Meredith Memorabilia Exhibit, generously donated by the celebrated former Dallas Cowboy Quarterback himself. Explore cherished items like Monday Night Football Sports Jacket, Ring of Honor, and Cowboy Football Jersey, among other fascinating family photographs and career memorabilia. Located on South Kaufman Street in Mount Vernon, this museum offers a heartwarming glimpse into the nostalgia of the past.

Immerse yourself in the enchanting embrace of Dupree Park Nature Center, a 57-acre oasis boasting winding primitive trails beneath a lush canopy of greenery. Discover a paradise for nature lovers and bird enthusiasts, guided by 65 signposts unveiling the secrets of flora and fauna. Unwind at the pavilion, perfect for reunions and celebrations, in this serene haven where tranquility finds its home.

Immerse yourself in the industrial past as the museum proudly displays heavy steel equipment that once shaped history. As you admire the rugged machinery, a striking pack of Pringe Albert cigarettes serves as a poignant artifact, revealing the fascinating connections between industry and culture. Discover how these artifacts intertwine, painting a vivid picture of bygone eras and their significance in shaping the world we know today.

Unveil the captivating allure of automotive history as the Old Fire Station Museum proudly showcases an exquisite collection of bonnet ornaments. Marvel at the intricate craftsmanship and timeless elegance of these automotive symbols, offering a mesmerizing glimpse into the golden age of classic cars. Step into a world of grace and sophistication, where these gleaming ornaments whisper stories of cherished heritage and automotive artistry.

Experience the timeless charm and elegance of automotive history as the Old Fire Station Museum proudly showcases a mesmerizing collection of bonnet ornaments. These captivating symbols of automotive craftsmanship, artfully displayed in the museum's hallowed halls, pay tribute to the bygone era of classic cars and their exquisite embellishments. Discover the artistry and intricacy behind each bonnet ornament, a testament to the allure of vintage automobiles and the preservation of cherished heritage. Step into this captivating exhibition and let the grace of these bonnet ornaments transport you back in time to a world of sophistication and beauty.

Discover Mount Vernon's culinary heritage at The Cake Lady Bakery Cafe, where you'll savor down-home country favorites like chicken-fried steaks and homemade hamburgers on house-baked buns. Owned by Donna Manincor, known as the "Cake Lady," this cozy spot offers an assortment of delectable fruit pies, nut pies, and tall iced cakes, along with weekend treats like giant cinnamon rolls. Enjoy the warmth of wooden furniture and the friendly ambiance as you indulge in homemade goodness.

In this heartwarming photograph, a father guides his two curious children through the captivating bird exhibit room at the Old Fire Station Museum. Nestled in a 1940 WPA-financed firestation, this museum offers a blend of permanent and changing exhibits, including the renowned Don Meredith Memorabilia Exhibit. As they learn about the birds and immerse themselves in the displays, the family discovers a treasure trove of history and culture in Mount Vernon's beloved museum on South Kaufman Street.

Step into a vintage postcard as County Road 2025, just outside Mount Vernon, takes you on a captivating journey through history. The Bankhead Highway, the first southern transcontinental driving route, once graced this enchanting path, enticing travelers to embark on a one-of-a-kind adventure. Amidst lush green trees and picturesque gardens, the Bankhead Highway Centennial Vintage Car Tour revives the spirit of the past, inviting you to join the celebration and create timeless memories along this legendary Texas road trip.

In this heartwarming photograph, Donna Manincor, the owner of The Cake Lady Bakery Cafe, stands proudly alongside her daughter, both beaming with joy as they showcase their delightful creations of delectable cakes and chocolate desserts. The charming ambiance of the cafe, with wooden furniture and elegantly draped tables, adds to the warmth of the moment, inviting visitors to savor the rich culinary heritage of Mount Vernon in every delicious bite.

Embark on an enchanting journey through Dupree Park Nature Center, a sprawling 57-acre preserve adorned with a breathtaking field of wildflowers, alive with a riot of colors. The primitive, winding walking trails beckon nature lovers and bird enthusiasts alike, as they explore the vibrant landscape and immerse themselves in the fascinating flora and fauna guided by 65 signposts and a printed trail guide. With a pavilion adding to its allure, this nature haven offers the perfect backdrop for joyful reunions and parties, capturing the essence of nature's splendor in every corner.

Embark on a journey through time as you trace the historic Bankhead Highway along County Road 2025, just outside the charming town of Mount Vernon, Texas. The narrow dirt road, shaded by a picturesque tree canopy, once welcomed a fleet of Model T Fords and adventurous travelers. This first southern transcontinental driving route, part of the legendary "Broadway of America," spanned 900 miles across the Lone Star State, offering a thrilling and unforgettable vintage car tour during the Bankhead Highway Centennial celebrations.

Embrace the tranquility of Dupree Park Nature Center, a sprawling 57-acre preserve adorned with winding walking trails and abundant wildlife. As tourists meander through the lush landscape, cameras hanging around their necks, they immerse themselves in the captivating flora and fauna. Amongst wild grass and blooming sunflowers, nature enthusiasts find solace, capturing precious moments and engaging in joyful conversations amidst this haven of natural wonders.

Amidst the jubilant Bankhead Highway Centennial Celebration, a radiant couple transports us to a bygone era. Dressed in delightful costumes, they exude joy and wonder as they stroll near the historic Franklin County Courthouse, immersed in the festive spirit. The woman's elegant dress and fur accessory evoke vintage charm, while her playful touch of heels around her neck adds a delightful twist. Beside her, the man channels the spirit of Chaplin, adorned in vibrant clothes and a whimsical hat. A captivating mural of Henry Clay Thruston's silhouette provides an enchanting backdrop, connecting the past with the present outside Hester & Company CPAs.

This captivating black and white photograph captures a nostalgic moment where the past and the present collide. A vintage car, parked gracefully on the brick road, witnesses the majestic passage of a roaring steam engine train in the background, engulfing the scene in a cloud of billowing smoke. As wild grass flanks the path, the image evokes a sense of timelessness, transporting us to an era where history and modernity harmoniously coexist.

In this heartwarming photograph, the sweetest of emotions fill the air at The Cake Lady Bakery Cafe. Donna Manincor, the talented owner, and her daughter share a tender embrace, their smiles radiating pure happiness and love. Amidst the delightful backdrop of cakes and delectable chocolate desserts, this special moment captures the essence of the cafe—a place where culinary heritage meets warm affection, creating unforgettable memories for all who visit.

Step into The Cake Lady Bakery Cafe to experience the essence of Mount Vernon's traditional cuisine. Housed in the former Alp Cafe, the cafe preserves the town's culinary heritage, serving hearty country favorites like meatloaf, chicken and dumplings, and chicken-fried steaks on house-baked buns. Owned by Donna Manincor, fondly known as the "Cake Lady," the bakery showcases an array of delectable fruit pies, nut pies, and tall iced cakes, including flavors like strawberry, chocolate, and Italian cream. On weekends, don't miss their giant cinnamon rolls, a cinnamon-nutty delight. Savor the taste of homemade goodness in a cozy ambiance with wooden furniture and tables adorned with tablecloths and plastic sheets, where you may even catch Donna Manincor and her daughter posing with one of their delightful cakes.

A captivating close-up reveals the intricate details of a vintage car, gracefully navigating the historic Bankhead Highway. Every curve and gleaming chrome of the classic automobile transports us back in time, tracing the rich history of this iconic Texas road trip. The Bankhead Highway comes alive once more as this timeless beauty cruises through the ages, a living testament to the allure of the open road and the spirit of exploration.

Step back in time as Mount Vernon embraces its cultural legacy during the Bankhead Highway Centennial celebrations. The iconic highway, once dubbed "The Broadway of America," weaves through the heart of the town, and a remarkable mural of Henry Clay Thruston's towering silhouette graces its surroundings. Amidst the merriment, locals don captivating costumes, a symbol of pride and nostalgia, as they honor the past and embrace the future with joyous festivity.

A heartwarming sight unfolds along County Road 2025 as vintage cars align gracefully under the shade of trees. The Bankhead Highway Centennial Vintage Car Tour brings together a joyful group of individuals, especially old-timers, relishing delicious food and drinks while seated on rustic stone benches. Amidst laughter and camaraderie, this nostalgic reunion captures the spirit of a bygone era, creating cherished memories along the historic Texas road trip.

Embrace the serene beauty of Dupree Park Nature Center as you meander along its enchanting 57-acre nature preserve. Embraced by a lush canopy of verdant trees, the primitive, winding walking trails beckon nature enthusiasts to uncover the wonders of flora and fauna marked by informative signposts. Birdsong echoes through the air, inviting bird lovers and wanderers alike to immerse themselves in this idyllic haven. The park's pavilion adds a touch of charm, making it an ideal spot for reunions, celebrations, and cherished moments in the lap of nature's embrace.

This captivating photograph showcases the neon sign outside The Cake Lady Bakery Cafe, bearing the nostalgic name "Alp Cafe." Reminiscent of a bygone era, this neon glow hints at the cafe's rich history, evoking memories of the place that once stood before the bakery. A delightful blend of past and present, the sign serves as a charming reminder of Mount Vernon's culinary heritage and the warm, welcoming atmosphere that still beckons visitors to this day.