Today was a driving day, as we are heading for Vicksburg, MS. Shorter days mean shorter driving time, and to ensure that we can set up in daylight, the max we can travel is about 400 miles.
First a note about the campground at Weatherford, TX at which we stayed last night: check out the sinks--
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We did see these flags not far from the LA-TX state line on I20:
The Texas flag looked bigger and as if it were flying higher than the US flag--hmmm
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Not long after our departure from Weatherford (which is to the west of Dallas), we ran into a lot of traffic on I20, most of it exiting in Canton. Then we saw a sign touting "Trade Fair". A quick Google search found what was happening: First Monday Trade Days in Canton, TX. It all began in the 1850′s when the circuit judge stopped in Canton on the first Monday of each month. This was the day the Judge held court. People from the area came to town on that day to conduct their business, stock their pantries and sit in on court proceedings … and watch a few “hangings”. History relates one incident where a man was hung for stealing his partner’s wagon of goods for trading. He is buried facing south (not east) in Hillcrest Cemetery by the First Monday grounds. Quite naturally, many also brought their own goods, produce and livestock with them to sell or trade. This took place just off the west side of the courthouse square. Most history versions include the trading of wild horses, which were rounded up in the region and brought to Canton to sell. By 1965, First Monday had outgrown the Town Square, It was then that the City of Canton purchased six acres just two blocks north of the courthouse. First Monday was moved off the square.
Originally, First Monday only “happened” on the first Monday of each month. However, now it takes place on the Thursday through Sunday before the first Monday of the month.
The one major take-away from our trip east through Texas is the difference in scenery as you drive from west to east. Pictures tell the story:
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| West Texas |
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| East of Dallas |
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