Geography Geography 6 min read

Cowboy culture

Explore the “Lone Star State” with these fun facts about Texas!

Image: Lucas Beck

A song made popular by "the Singing Cowboy" Gene Autry contains these lyrics: "The stars at night are big and bright, deep in the heart of Texas." And while it's true that the "Lone Star State" is known for that single star shining on its flag, Autry wasn’t exaggerating— a star-filled Texan night sky is truly a sight to behold. However, that’s just the tip of the iceberg of the things that make this state so wonderful. With that in mind, we have compiled 10 of our favorite facts about Texas, hoping to inspire your future trip and fill you with pride for our second-largest state. Enjoy!

1
Brisket

Image: Sergey Kotenev

We’ll begin with a Texan staple . Texas boasts a number of extraordinary culinary delicacies, and we could have easily focused on any of them for this entry. As a sign of respect, we’ll mention chili con carne, Texas’ official state dish, as well as the Texas Tommy, a delicious hotdog served with bacon and cheese. However, we must give credit where credit is due to what’s perhaps the most iconic dish in Texan cuisine— we believe that title goes to the almighty brisket.

It’s no secret that Texas barbecues are the stuff of legends, and in that sense, many believe that brisket is the undisputed crown jewel of any barbecue worth its salt. While it's true that this beef cut does take some time to cook in Texan slow-smoking barbecue, briskets are truly something special.

2
Six Flags Over Texas

Image: Zabdiel Gonzalez

Have you ever wondered why the iconic theme park is called "Six Flags?" The name comes from the popular slogan "Six Flags Over Texas," but that doesn’t clarify exactly what those flags represent. Well, the answer lies in Texas history, since it is a direct reference to the six nations that have governed Texas in the past.

Since its foundation, Texas has been governed by Spain, France, Mexico, the Confederate States, and the United States. Not only that, for a brief period Texas was its very own independent country, known as the Republic of Texas. This independent state lasted from 1836 to 1846 before it became our nation’s 28th State.

3
Size

Image: Mick Haupt

Texas might not be our largest state, but it is undeniably massive. As we mentioned earlier, for approximately 10 years the Republic of Texas was its own separate country—and it certainly had the size for it. If Texas was still a separate nation, it would be the 39th largest nation in the world. In fact, the Lone Star state could fit 10 different European nations within its borders and still have room to spare.

Speaking of which, how does Texas fare against other U.S. states? Let’s just put it into perspective: you could fit Rhode Island, our smallest state, 221 times inside Texas. Not only that, you could comfortably fit 10 different states at the same time. Impressive, isn't it?

4
Etymology

Image: Enrique Macias

We’ve referred to Texas by its "Lone Star" nickname so much in this article that you might be inclined to believe that its official slogan is "The Lone Star State." However, you might be surprised to learn that the official one is actually "The Friendly State," a moniker that comes from the etymology of the word "Texas" itself.

The name "Texas" originates from the Caddo word táy:shaʼ, which translates to "friend." It is believed that Spanish settlers called the Caddo people by this word, and eventually named the whole region Provincia de los Texas , meaning "province of the Texas people."

5
Dr. Pepper

Image: Yana Smetana

Need a tasty beverage to wash all that delicious brisket down? We've got you covered, take a trip to Waco, Texas, and visit the Dr. Pepper Museum , housed in the very first building specifically built to bottle this iconic soft drink. Not only will you get a refreshing soda in return, but you’ll also learn all about one of America’s favorite beverages.

As you might have guessed, Waco is the birthplace of Dr. Pepper, created in 1885 by pharmacist Charles Alderton. This soft drink is truly a Texan treasure, regularly enjoyed all across the state. Much like Coca-Cola and other sodas, its recipe is a well-guarded secret, allegedly kept in halves and guarded in two separate safe deposit boxes.

6
Rodeo

Image: Vinny O'Hare

Few things are as synonymous with Texas as rodeo . Cowboy culture is a huge part of what makes this state so special, so if you have a chance, attending at least one rodeo during your visit is a must.

For many Texans, rodeos are more than just a spectacle—they are a way of life that showcases both the daring nature and passionate identity that defines the Lone Star State. There are literally too many rodeos to recommend, but rest assured, the spirit of the Old West still lives in all of them.

7
Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center

Image: History in HD

What’s the first thing that comes to mind whenever someone mentions the 1993 blockbuster Apollo 13 ? You don’t have to answer—we all know it’s Tom Hanks’ iconic delivery of the classic line, "Houston, we have a problem." It’s only natural that this phrase is forever associated with space exploration; after all, the city of Houston has been home to one of NASA’s main facilities for over 60 years.

The Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center is perhaps NASA’s most renowned facility. It’s where manned spaceflight research, training, and flight control are conducted. The center has grown so much in popularity that, in 1967, the city of Houston was given the official nickname "Space City."

8
Weird laws

Image: Tingey Injury Law Firm

Let’s take a small detour to talk about Texas’ wackier side . While the state’s constitution strives to guarantee the happiness and safety of millions of Texans, it also contains its fair share of wacky and weird laws that still exist in our days.

We don’t really have the time or space to deal with every weird Texas law, so here are some of our favorites. For starters, carrying wire cutters is forbidden in Austin, a rule that dates back to whenever cattle owners would settle a dispute by cutting their neighbors’ barbed wire. You should also refrain yourself from walking barefoot on the streets of certain Texan cities, and, thanks to a particularly outdated law, from buying cheese on a Sunday.

9
Texas Eiffel Tower

Image: Estevão Teixeira

Want to experience the majesty of the Eiffel Tower but don’t feel like leaving the country? Don’t worry, Texas has your back. All you need to do is visit the city of Paris (not the French capital, but rather its Texan counterpart) to marvel at a replica of this engineering wonder. While it is significantly smaller than the original, the Texas Eiffel Tower showcases this state’s spirit by sporting a red cowboy hat at its top.

Curiously, Texas's Eiffel Tower was built the same year as another American replica of the Parisian monument. In 1993, both Paris, Texas, and Paris, Tennessee unveiled their replicas. The cowboy hat was added to the Texas Tower in 1998 in a bit of friendly competition since the added height made this tower slightly taller than the one in Tennessee.

10
Presidents born in Texas

Image: History in HD

We’ll end this article by paying homage to some of Texas’ favorite sons. Did you know that Texas is the only state with three different presidential libraries ? What’s curious is that only two U.S. presidents were born in Texas, Lyndon B. Johnson and Dwight D. Eisenhower. However, two other presidents also famously fell in love with the Lone Star State and made it their home.

George H. Bush’s love for Texas is very well-documented. Years before becoming president, he moved to this state with his family after graduating from college. President Bush passed his adoration for Texas on to his children. Years later, his older son George W. became governor of Texas and, eventually, the 43rd president of the United States.

History History 5 min read

Spirits in the halls

The White House After Dark: Whose spirits linger in the Mansion?

Image: Tom Fisk / Photo By: Kaboompics.com

The White House was completed in the 1800s and has served as the home to every US president since. Just imagine the countless people, events, conversations, and even incidents that have taken place there. With six floors and 132 rooms, it's no surprise that the White House has a good dose of paranormal stories. From creepy footsteps and noises to the apparitions of presidential ghosts, the iconic mansion at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue is full of supernatural tales that will give you goosebumps!

1
Abraham Lincoln

Image: Girma Nigusse

One of the most famous ghosts in the White House is none other than that of Abraham Lincoln. But this is nothing new. Shortly after the president's passing, employees of the Mansion began reporting sightings of a tall, shadowy figure dressed in a black suit. Several First Ladies, including Eleanor Roosevelt and Grace Coolidge, also claimed to have encountered Lincoln's spectral figure.

One of the best stories about his ghost involves a famous statesman from another country: Winston Churchill. During WWII, Churchill visited the White House. The story goes that after a night shower, he encountered Lincoln's ghost standing by the fireplace. Churchill greeted him calmly, saying, "Good evening, Mr. President. You seem to have me at a disadvantage."

2
Andrew Jackson

Image: Peter Oswald

Andrew Jackson, 7th President of the US, was famous for his strong, commanding personality. Perhaps it was this aspect of his character that gave rise to the tales of his loud –some say "angry"– ghost haunting the White House.

Jackson's ghost was said to appear regularly during Theodore Roosevelt's administration. Stories describe his presence as impossible to ignore, with loud footsteps and objects inexplicably falling. Another famous anecdote narrates a dinner party held by President Harry S. Truman at the White House. Many guests allegedly saw Jackson's figure standing in one of the hallways, appearing and disappearing right in front of them.

3
Thomas Jefferson

Image: Dominik Scythe

Thomas Jefferson was not only a Founding Father, the main author of the Declaration of Independence, the 3rd President of the United States, and the man behind the Louisiana Purchase. He was also a skilled violinist.

As a polymath, Jefferson was a wise, educated man with many talents. He played several instruments, but his favorite was the violin. Over the years, several stories have emerged about staff members and even other presidents hearing the haunting sound of a violin, seemingly coming from the Yellow Oval Room.

4
Dolley Madison and the Rose Garden

Image: KaLisa Veer

But paranormal stories aren't just about presidents; First Ladies also star in similar anecdotes.

One such tale is about Dolley Madison, First Lady to James Madison, who lived in the White House from 1809 to 1817 during his two terms. Dolley Madison was known to spend long hours in the gardens during her time at the House, particularly in the Rose Garden, which she loved. After her passing in 1849, many reported seeing a ghostly figure in the Rose Garden, hearing a woman's voice, or feeling as if they were being watched.

5
Abigail Adams

Image: Hugo

John Adams was the first president to ever live in the White House. He was there with his wife, Abigail Adams, during the last year of his term (1800-1801).

After Abigail's passing, many people working in the White House reported sightings of her ghost in the East Room, where she was said to hang laundry. Even today, some staff members claim to smell wet laundry near that room.

6
John Tyler

Image: Madara

Another of the haunted rooms in the White House is the Blue Room, apparently visited by the ghost of President John Tyler.

Tyler married his second wife, Julia Gardiner, in 1844 while still in office. As the story goes, the president had proposed to Julia on several occasions before she finally said yes. Over the years, reports emerged about the Blue Room of the White House, where it is suggested that footsteps are heard, and a man's voice seemingly declaring love or proposing marriage.

7
David Burnes

Image: Vihan Dalal

The White House has stood at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue since 1800. But before that, the land it occupies belonged to someone else.

David Burnes was one of the original landowners, living there before the government purchased it. Legend has it that he wasn't totally pleased with the sale of his land. After his death, several residents –including Abigail Adams– reportedly saw a figure resembling Burnes walking near the house, often watching it from a distance.

8
William Henry Harrison

Image: Peter Herrmann

It seems ghosts might be lurking in every corner of the White House. As we've seen, several rooms and even the gardens have been the setting for various paranormal tales. But that's not all: The attic holds its secrets, too.

This story involves William Henry Harrison, the 9th president of the US and the first to pass away during his time in the White House. It's said that his spirit now haunts the attic of the mansion, where footsteps and a wailing voice can be heard at times.

9
The Thing

Image: Steinar Engeland

Legend has it that a mysterious entity has been haunting the White House for some time, one not tied to any known historical figure.

Several members of the White House staff have reported strange experiences attributed to "the Thing." That's the name given to this presence that makes those nearby feel as if they are being watched. But here's the creepiest part: Several employees reported feeling pressure on their shoulders as if someone was lightly leaning on them.

10
The Demon Cat

Image: Abdu Rahman

Now, it's time for a ghost that doesn't take human form. It's the well-known " Demon cat" (or "DC"), a spectral black cat said to haunt several government buildings in Washington, DC.

According to legend, cats were brought to the city to control the rat population in the 19th century. But one of those cats never left. It's now a ghost haunting landmarks like the White House and the US Capitol. Some people say the ghostly cat appears small at first but grows to a creepy large size as it approaches. Some even describe it as reaching the size of a "huge tiger."

History History 4 min read

Lands that were only dreams

Superior, Transylvania, Sequoyah, and other states that never were

Image: Chris Lawton

The map of the United States could have looked very different—perhaps with around 70 states, each having its own capital and constitution. For example, have you ever heard of the proposed states of Franklin or Westsylvania? And can you guess where Superior was supposed to be located? Let’s dive into 13 states that almost—but never—found a place on the map.

1
Superior

Image: Brian Beckwith

As we know, Michigan is divided into the Upper and Lower Peninsulas. The discussion about whether the Upper Peninsula should become its own state dates back as far as 1858.

During the 19th and 20th centuries, residents of the region proposed creating the State of Superior , named after the Great Lake that defines the region. Although the movement never gained enough traction, some people still support the idea today, even though Superior would become the state with the smallest population.

2
Jefferson

Image: Kirk Thornton

Jefferson was a proposed state, much like Washington was before it became a state. Picture this: a state straddling Northern California and Southern Oregon, rich in timber and minerals. This was the vision for Jefferson , first proposed in the mid-19th century and revived in 1941.

Residents even declared a symbolic "secession" and distributed pamphlets proclaiming their independence. However, World War II shifted priorities , and the movement eventually fizzled out.

3
Deseret

Image: Wolfgang Hasselmann

Mormon settlers had big dreams in 1849—they proposed Deseret , a massive theocratic state . The name, meaning "honeybee" in the Book of Mormon , symbolized industry and cooperation. But Congress wasn’t exactly buzzing with enthusiasm.

Instead, Congress created the smaller Utah Territory , which at the time included present-day Utah as well as parts of Nevada, Colorado, and Wyoming.

4
Sequoyah

Image: Nina Luong

In 1905, Native American tribes in eastern Oklahoma proposed the State of Sequoyah , named after the Cherokee scholar who created the Cherokee syllabary .

It was a bold move to create a Native-majority state. However, Congress chose instead to merge the area with Oklahoma Territory to form the state of Oklahoma . The constitution drafted for the proposed State of Sequoyah went on to influence the final Constitution of Oklahoma.

5
Lincoln

Image: Clark Van Der Beken

The proposed State of Lincoln had multiple identities. One version placed it in eastern Washington and northern Idaho. Although the name was intended to honor Abraham Lincoln, other names, such as Columbia and Eastern (East) Washington , were also considered.

Another proposal envisioned Lincoln in southern Texas. This version reportedly had a prepared constitution and a distinctive red flag featuring Lincoln’s face inside a yellow circle.

6
East and West Jersey

Image: Nick Fewings

Can you imagine two New Jerseys? Back in 1674, when the area was still a British province, New Jersey was divided into East Jersey and West Jersey , each with its own government and constitution.

But the separation lasted only 28 years . The territories were rejoined in 1702, and the first New Jersey state constitution wasn’t adopted until 1776, following independence from Britain.

7
Franklin

Image: Dan Mall

The State of Franklin was another plan, except this one worked, for a while. In 1784, settlers in eastern Tennessee had had enough with what they saw as North Carolina’s neglect. They declared independence and formed the State of Franklin , named after Benjamin Franklin, of course.

For four years, Franklin operated as a de facto state , complete with its own constitution and government. However, Congress refused to recognize it, and by 1788, the State of Franklin ceased to exist.

8
Transylvania

Image: Julia Volk

Transylvania (from the Latin for "beyond the woods" ) is more than just a remote land of vampire legends—it was also nearly the name of a short-lived American colony in what is now mostly Tennessee and parts of Kentucky.

In 1775, land speculator Richard Henderson struck a deal with the Cherokee to create the Colony of Transylvania , in parts of Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia. But Virginia and North Carolina declared the venture illegal. Still, the name lives on today in Transylvania University in Lexington, Kentucky.

9
Nickajack

Image: lauren barton

During the Civil War, Union sympathizers in northern Alabama, northern Georgia, and eastern Tennessee proposed the creation of the State of Nickajack . The name came from a Cherokee village, but the idea never gained much traction.

Today, the Nickajack Dam and Nickajack Lake reservoir mark areas that would have fallen within the boundaries of this proposed state.

10
Absaroka

Image: Mohan Nannapaneni

Have you ever heard of Absaroka ? During the Great Depression, residents of parts of Wyoming, South Dakota, and Montana proposed the creation of the State of Absaroka , named after the Crow Nation’s word for "children of the large-beaked bird."

The movement was largely a symbolic protest against federal neglect. Absaroka even had its own license plates and a self-declared "governor," but the state never came to fruition.

11
Westsylvania

Image: Isaac Wendland

Yet another -vania . In the late 18th century, settlers west of the Appalachian Mountains proposed the creation of the State of Westsylvania . Frustrated by neglect from eastern state governments—especially Virginia and Pennsylvania—they wanted a state of their own.

But like many other separatist efforts, the proposal was rejected by Congress and never became a reality.

12
Madison

Image: Library of Congress

Another president nearly had a state named after him—but didn’t. The name of the fourth U.S. president, James Madison, was once proposed for the area that is now part of the Dakotas.

In the late 19th century, residents of what is now southwestern North Dakota proposed the creation of the State of Madison . However, the idea faced a major hurdle: Congress was already considering dividing the Dakota Territory into two separate states. In 1889, North and South Dakota were admitted to the Union, and the Madison proposal was quietly shelved.

Other articles you might like

Would you pardon a turkey? In America, you can!
Learn More
Learn More
Go beyond mozzarella and pepperoni with these 10 delicious pizzas
Learn More
Learn More

Explore more American facts

Choose your favorite category!

General
General

As American as apple pie—the very best America has to offer!

See General
Culture
Culture

Delve into the astounding richness of American lore.

See Culture
Geography
Geography

Hop in and explore vast and diverse American landscapes.

See Geography
History
History

Discover the key moments that shaped the United States.

See History