Cherokee County vs. Swisher County
Tomatoes & Canyons
The week concludes with a contrast between the "Tomato Capital of the World" and the "Town Without a Frown." Cherokee County, in East Texas, is a land of red iron ore soil, rolling hills, and historic trains. Swisher County, in the Panhandle, is big sky country, home to Tulia and Happy. One is defined by its lush agriculture and Caddoan history; the other by its friendly spirit and high plains grit.
Cherokee County (Population Approx. 51,000)
Cherokee County is rich in soil and soul. Jacksonville and Rusk anchor a region famous for its tomato production (historically) and its iron ore hills. It is home to the Caddo Mounds State Historic Site and the Texas State Railroad (shared with Anderson). The vibe is rustic and scenic. Challenges include rural healthcare access and leveraging tourism for economic growth.
Swisher County (Population Approx. 6,900)
Swisher County is the friendly face of the Panhandle. Tulia and Happy serve as the hubs for a community built on cotton, wheat, and cattle. The landscape is flat until it meets the stunning break of the Tule Canyon. Residents pride themselves on their hospitality ("The Town Without a Frown") and their resilience in a harsh climate. Challenges include water conservation and maintaining a vibrant main street in a changing retail landscape.
Why It Matters
Cherokee County preserves the deep history of the Caddo people and early Texas industry. Swisher County maintains the agricultural backbone of the state. Both counties face the struggle of rural communities fighting to keep their identity in a rapidly urbanizing state.
Why Forward
Forward believes that the farmer in Jacksonville and the rancher in Tulia share a common bond.
In Cherokee County, the diverse history requires inclusive leadership. Open Primaries would allow the community to elect leaders who honor the past while planning for the future, without partisan gatekeeping. Ranked Choice Voting would encourage collaboration between the towns of Rusk and Jacksonville.
In Swisher County, the community spirit is strong. Ranked Choice Voting empowers rural voters to support candidates who prioritize the specific needs of the High Plains, like rural broadband.
Did You Know…
Jacksonville (Cherokee) was once known as the "Tomato Capital of the World" due to its massive production and shipping.
Happy (Swisher) is officially known as "The Town Without a Frown" and was featured in the movie Happy, Texas.
Caddo Mounds State Historic Site in Cherokee County preserves the ceremonial center of the Caddo Indians.
Tule Canyon in Swisher County offers breathtaking views that rival nearby Palo Duro.
The Texas State Railroad has a depot in Rusk (Cherokee), offering a journey through history.
Why Texans Love Living Here
Cherokee residents love the "Love's Lookout" views, the taste of home-grown tomatoes, and the sound of the steam whistle. Swisher locals love the Friday night lights, the stunning canyon sunsets, and the neighborly wave on Main Street.
Key Events That Bring Neighbors Together
Tomato Fest (Jacksonville/Cherokee): A celebration of the red fruit with contests, music, and a soccer tournament.
Swisher County Picnic (Tulia): A massive July celebration with a parade, BBQ, and rodeo that serves as a homecoming.
Caddo Culture Day (Cherokee): Celebrating the indigenous history of the region.
Happy Days Celebration (Swisher): A festival living up to the town's name.
People & Tech Created This
The profiles and shared challenges were gathered from Texas Forward Party supporters and written using ChatGPT and Gemini models to combine verified public data, official county/state sources, and general knowledge from Texas historical and government records:
