Celebrating an era when cotton was still king, the Burton Cotton
Gin Festival will make history come alive again on April 14, 15,
and 16, 2000, in Burton, Texas.
The only event in the world that celebrates cotton ginning, the
Burton Cotton Gin Festival appeals to all generations. Youngsters
will learn of the role cotton played in the history of Texas, while
oldsters will recall with fondness the machines and way of life
they knew as children.
The Cotton Gin Festival developed from Burton’s distinction
of being home to the most intact historic cotton gin left from the
early twentieth century. For 13 years, volunteers working in
cooperation with the Smithsonian Institution have painstakingly
restored the cotton gin to working condition. Tours of the gin are
a highlight of the festival.
The weekend is jam-packed with activities for the whole family.
Visitors can see working examples of antique engines and farm
equipment from all over the nation. A wooden model of Eli
Whitney’s original 1793 cotton gin is on display at the Visitor
Center, copied from Smithsonian Institution plans.
Complete festival information is available by calling
830-997-8515 or by emailing: creative@ktc.com.
