In the video, a father and daughter embark on a journey to explore rural towns in Texas on the daughter’s birthday. They begin their adventure in Wills Point, a small town with a population of 3,700 people. They wander around the historic downtown area, admiring the brick roads built in 1922 and discussing various facts about the town, such as its per capita income and low crime rate. The father and daughter also pay a visit to the Bluebird Cafe, known as the Bluebird capital of Texas, and explore other notable buildings in the downtown area. After their exploration of Wills Point, they move on to Grand Saline, known for its impressive salt dome, and then visit Canton, famous for its giant flea market called Canton Trade Days. Throughout the video, they discuss their findings, share interesting stories, and express their excitement for future adventures.
Wills Point
Exploring the Historic Downtown Area
Welcome to Wills Point! This charming small town in rural Texas is the perfect place to explore on a relaxing day trip. As you venture into the historic downtown area, you’ll be greeted by the sight of beautiful brick roads that were built back in 1922. These roads hold so much history and add a unique touch to the town’s aesthetic.
Discussing the Town’s Economic Statistics
While exploring Wills Point, it’s important to reflect on the town’s economic statistics. With a population of 3,700 people, Wills Point may be small, but it has a tight-knit community. The per capita income here is $25,200, which means that every person in the town lives on around $485 per week. The median household income is $44,200, which comes out to around $850 per week. The cost of living is low, and the median home value is $91,000. This makes Wills Point an affordable place to live and raise a family.
Raising Money for a Local Soccer Team
A sense of community is always evident in Wills Point, and one great example of this is the town’s effort to raise money for a local soccer team. This highlights the importance of supporting local sports and providing opportunities for young athletes to shine. It’s heartwarming to see the community come together to contribute and show their support.
Low Crime Rate in Wills Point
Safety is a top priority for any town, and Wills Point excels in this area. With only 11 incidents per 1,000 people, the crime rate in Wills Point is impressively low. Violent crime is even lower, with only five incidents per 1,000 people. This means that residents can feel secure and enjoy a peaceful environment in their hometown.
History of Wills Point
Wills Point has a rich history that dates back to 1848 when a man named William Wills built the town’s first house. The town was named after him as a way to honor his contributions. Exploring the historic buildings and landmarks in Wills Point gives you a glimpse into its past and allows you to appreciate the town’s heritage.
Exploring Other Buildings in the Downtown Area
As you stroll through the downtown area, you’ll encounter various other buildings that contribute to the town’s character. From the abandoned haunted house, which was once a popular attraction, to the old drugstore and theater, each structure tells a story of its own. Take a moment to soak in the nostalgia and imagine what life was like in Wills Point decades ago.
Visiting the Bluebird Cafe
Wills Point proudly holds the title of the Bluebird capital of Texas. One spot that showcases this is the iconic Bluebird Cafe. Stop by for a cup of coffee and enjoy the cozy ambiance of this quaint establishment. It’s a great place to chat with locals and learn more about the town’s history and culture.
Visiting the First Christian Church
The First Christian Church in Wills Point has been a pillar of the community since 1886. Its beautiful architecture stands as a testament to the town’s religious heritage. While you may not be able to explore the interior during a service, taking a moment to admire the church’s exterior is definitely worthwhile.
Trying to Visit William Wills’ Cabin
William Wills’ cabin is a significant part of Wills Point’s history. This pioneer home was built by Mr. and Mrs. Wills themselves and played a crucial role in giving the town its name. While it’s unfortunate that we cannot enter the cabin due to the padlocks, we can still appreciate its significance from the outside.
Famous Gravesite in the Cemetery
Before leaving Wills Point, make a stop at the local cemetery to visit a famous gravesite. It’s a somber reminder of a groom burying his bride-to-be on their wedding day, a tragic event that has left a lasting impact on the town’s history. Paying your respects and reflecting on the fragility of life can be a humbling experience.
Grand Saline
The Town’s Salt Dome
Next stop, Grand Saline! This town is known for its unique natural feature, the salt dome. The salt dome in Grand Saline is actually one of the largest salt domes on Earth and sits beneath the town. This natural wonder is not only fascinating but also contributes to the town’s identity.
Demographic Information
Grand Saline has a population with a median age of 38. The breakdown of the population is 60% female and 40% male. It’s interesting to see how demographics differ from town to town, and this mix of individuals adds to the colorful tapestry of Grand Saline.
Building Made of Salt Downtown
While exploring downtown Grand Saline, you’ll come across a truly unique sight—a building made entirely of salt. This building is owned by Morton Salt, a company known for its salt products. It’s a testament to the town’s significance in the salt industry and adds a touch of quirkiness to the town’s landscape.
Economic Statistics
In terms of economics, Grand Saline has a per capita income of $22,600 per year. The median household income is $45,000 per year. Despite its small size, the town thrives and offers its residents opportunities for a comfortable life.
Crime Rate in Grand Saline
Grand Saline boasts a remarkably low crime rate, with only six incidents per 1,000 people. This is significantly lower than the national average of 23 incidents per 1,000 people. It’s reassuring to know that Grand Saline is a safe place to reside and visit.
Canton
Canton Trade Days
Now, let’s head over to Canton, a town renowned for its famous flea market known as Canton Trade Days. This massive event attracts around 100,000 visitors each day and showcases the vibrant spirit of Canton. If you’re lucky enough to visit during this time, be prepared for an exciting and bustling atmosphere.
Demographic Information
Canton has a median age of 44, reflecting a diverse range of residents of varying ages and life experiences. The gender breakdown is 53% male and 47% female, showcasing a fairly even distribution. This mix creates a dynamic community where everyone’s voice is valued.
Economic Statistics
Canton’s economic statistics are impressive, with a median per capita income of $32,500 per year. The median household income is just under $51,000 per year. The town offers its residents a solid foundation for financial stability and growth.
Crime Rate in Canton
While Canton is a vibrant and thriving town, it’s important to be aware of the crime rate. The town experiences 20 incidents per 1,000 people, mostly property crimes. As with any place, it’s essential to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety.
Exploring the Flea Market
Odd and Unique Items for Sale
As you navigate through the world’s largest flea market at Canton Trade Days, you’ll come across an array of odd and unique items for sale. From rusty silverware to nonfunctional watches, there’s something intriguing about these unexpected finds. This is the perfect opportunity to stumble upon a hidden gem.
Excitement Over Finding Treasures
The thrill of finding treasures at a flea market is undeniable. It’s like embarking on a treasure hunt, unsure of what you might stumble upon. Whether it’s a Peanuts glass, vintage clothing, or antique knick-knacks, each discovery brings a surge of excitement and joy.
Live Music and Entertainment
Canton Trade Days is not only a shopping extravaganza but also a hub for live music and entertainment. The air is filled with melodies as talented musicians serenade visitors with their performances. This adds to the vibrant atmosphere and creates an unforgettable experience.
Discussion of Star Wars Merchandise
For Star Wars fans, Canton Trade Days is a dream come true. The merchandise available ranges from Darth Vader figurines to Star Wars-themed watches. The excitement of discussing favorite characters and collecting rare items adds to the overall fun of the flea market.
Christmas Decorations and Unique Collectibles
Regardless of the time of year, Canton Trade Days always has a wide selection of festive Christmas decorations on offer. From Santa figurines to twinkling lights, there’s no shortage of Christmas spirit. Additionally, the market is a haven for unique collectibles that can’t be found anywhere else.
Mention of Samurai Sword and Antique Gun
While exploring Canton Trade Days, our attention is captured by a samurai sword and an antique gun. These items not only showcase the vast range of items available but also spark conversations about their historical significance. This adds depth and intrigue to the flea market experience.
Getting Lost at the Flea Market
With such a massive market, it’s easy to get lost in the maze of vendors and stalls. Finding the entrance or the food area can sometimes feel like a challenge. However, this is part of the adventure. Embrace the spontaneity and allow yourself to wander, knowing that surprises await around every corner.
Trying Unique and Wacky Food Options
Exploring the flea market can be an exhausting endeavor, and what better way to refuel than by trying unique and wacky food options? Let your taste buds wander as you indulge in the various culinary delights available. From deep-fried delicacies to exotic snacks, the flea market offers a world of flavors.
Enjoying Sausage on a Stick
Sometimes, the simplest food options are the most satisfying. Sausage on a stick is a crowd favorite at Canton Trade Days—a nostalgic, savory treat that hits the spot and reminds us of the joy found in life’s simple pleasures. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor this classic fair food.
Missing Vegetables on a Birthday Meal
As we continue our journey through Canton Trade Days, we can’t help but share a comical mishap involving Audrey’s birthday meal. It appears that in the excitement of exploring the flea market, we completely forgot to include vegetables in her birthday feast. Sometimes, the simplest details can slip through the cracks, but it’s all part of the adventure and something we can laugh about.
Excitement for Future Videos
As our day in Canton comes to an end, we find ourselves filled with excitement for future videos and adventures. The experience of exploring small towns in rural Texas on Audrey’s birthday has been unforgettable, and it only fuels our desire to continue our journey and bring more exciting content to our viewers. East St. Louis is next on our list, and we can’t wait to see what it has in store.
And with that, our tour of these small towns in rural Texas comes to a close, but the memories made and the beauty of these unique places will last a lifetime.