Beaumont

In Jefferson County, Beaumont is located northeast of Houston at I-10's eastern terminus, near the Louisiana state line and the Gulf of Mexico.

The first permanent settlers were French and Spanish trappers and explorers who came in 1825 and established a trading post. Oil made the town well-known when the Spindletop gusher made news in 1901.

Beaumont, population 114,000, is the region's largest city. It is one of the world's largest refining and petrochemical centers; also there are paper and rice mills, lumber and pulp products, and a busy port. In addition, Beaumont produces medical instruments and precision industrial equipment.

The city enjoys a semi-tropical climate, which draws visitors year-round for outdoor recreation. French Cajun culture influences its food, lifestyle and music. Beaumont offers the extensive Texas Energy Museum and a variety of smaller museums.