Kilgore is a city located in Gregg and Rusk counties in the state of Texas, USA. The city was founded in 1872 when the International-Great Northern Railroad completed the line through the area. Kilgore quickly grew into a thriving oil town due to the discovery of oil in the early 1930s. The city experienced a boom during this time, with many oil companies setting up headquarters in the area.
Kilgore has been home to several notable individuals, including former NFL player Y.A. Tittle, country singer Neal McCoy, and Pulitzer Prize-winning author Larry McMurtry.
The population of Kilgore has fluctuated over the years, with a peak population of around 12,000 during the oil boom years of the 1930s. As of the latest census, the population stands at approximately 14,000 residents.
Kilgore is located in East Texas, approximately 120 miles east of Dallas. The city sits on the Sabine River and is surrounded by rolling hills and pine forests.
Kilgore's economy is driven by the oil industry, as well as education, healthcare, and manufacturing. The city is home to several oil companies and refineries, as well as Kilgore College, which provides education and training for the local workforce.
Kilgore has a rich cultural heritage, with a strong emphasis on the arts, history, and community events. The city hosts various festivals throughout the year, including the KilGogh Arts Festival and the annual Christmas parade.