It started with Love – David H. Love, to be exact, who donated 100 acres in 1851 to establish the town of Fairfield to become the county seat of Freestone County, Texas.
One hundred and sixty-five years later, this small town is a bustling, mini-metropolis with a vibrant downtown and a connected, caring community.
For visitors coming off the Interstate (between Dallas and Houston) Fairfield is the gateway to a picturesque courthouse square, a treasure trove of local history, and one of the best fishing lakes in the State of Texas.
Perhaps the most well-known stops would include Sam’s Original Restaurant, home to three generations of barbecue, mile-high meringue pies and the best onion rings known to man; and Cooper Farms Country Store that stocks freshly-grown peaches, peach ice cream, fresh produce, canned goods and wines.
Recreation
Just five miles northeast of this small town, Fairfield Lake State Park features a 2,400 acre lake (the state record holder for inland red drum was taken here), extensive hiking trails (many of which are open to horseback riding), and bird watching (bald eagles nest here from November to February).
The State Park plays host to several annual events throughout the year, including The Righty Run (set for next month on February 25th) that raises awareness for Pediatric Stroke, Kid Fish Derby in May, and Christmas in the Park in December (featuring a campfire, tour of lights and visits with Santa Claus).  The park also holds several mini-workshops during the summer at their outdoor amphitheater.
As with many small towns in Texas, outdoor sports are an important part of life.  Fairfield is no different.
In addition to the football field and basketball courts, Fairfield ISD also has an excellent Cross Country track and a large Baseball Complex that is used by the community.
The city’s Parks & Recreation Department offers the Les Hays Soccer Fields, a Walking Trail, Rodeo Arena and more Softball fields.
Fairfield is currently working to secure grants for a Splash Park that, if all goes as planned, should open this summer.
Annual Events
A beautiful courthouse square is the perfect backdrop to several annual events, hosted by the City of Fairfield and the Fairfield Chamber of Commerce.
The popular Easter Eggstravaganza, featuring games, prizes and live bunnies, will be held this year on April 15th.
Other events include the Annual Show of Wheels (the weekend after Labor Day) and Christmas on the Square (the first Saturday of December).
Fairfield also plays host to the Freestone County “World’s” Fair & Rodeo in June, and sponsors a patriotic Fireworks Show in July.
Shopping
Fairfield is home to several vintage markets, clothing boutiques and gift shops throughout the town.
In addition, the monthly Fairfield Market Days, held at the historic W.L. Moody Reunion Grounds, is a great place to explore arts & crats, antiques and flea market finds.  The next Market Days event is set for January 27-29.
Twice a year, A Square Affair takes over downtown Fairfield for a one-day shopping spree.  This year’s summer evet is May 20th.
Find Out More
For shopping and services in the Fairfield and surrounding area, be sure to check out our advertisers in this week’s print edition.
Stay tuned next week as we highlight the Railroad town of Teague, Texas.