Texas Historical Commission

On November 9, join Levi Jordan Plantation State Historic Site in Brazoria for A Day of Remembrance (ADOR). ADOR is an educational program remembering, acknowledging, and honoring those who were enslaved or sharecropped during the plantation and post-emancipation eras. The day will begin with presentations about genealogy research and family photo preservation, followed by hands-on workshops. Food historian and Chef Natalie Wright-Moore Clark will conduct a historic foodways demonstration and family meal in the afternoon. Chef Clark's recipes journey through African American culinary history in Brazoria County. For more information: https://lnkd.in/g_fdxGGP

In 1554, a fleet of Spanish ships departed from Veracruz, Mexico, bound for Spain—three of the four ships wrecked near Padre Island. The discovery, salvage, and excavations of these wrecks are among the most important underwater archeological projects of the 20th century. The shipwrecks were “lost” in the Gulf for 410 years until amateur diver Vida Lee Connor accidentally discovered them in 1964. Connor publicized her findings in 1966, and the next year, a salvage company from Indiana began comprehensive artifact recovery of Espíritu Santo, one of the three wrecked ships. This salvage exposed the lack of protection for state antiquities. Bills to protect cultural resources on state public lands were introduced in the 1967 legislative session; in 1969, the Antiquities Code of Texas was enacted. The precursor of the Texas Historical Commission was established that year as the state agency with jurisdiction over Texas archeological sites, structures, and other cultural resources. The THC investigations of the fleet were the first state-sponsored underwater excavations in the United States. Today, Texas has nearly 2,000 reported historic shipwreck losses and more than 190 documented submerged archeological sites. The Marine Archeology Program has been at the forefront of underwater archeology, with projects like this pioneering 1554 Spanish fleet, the 17th-century wreck of La Belle, and the early 19th-century Monterrey Shipwrecks. 📸: 1973 recovery of the anchor from San Esteban, which wrecked off Padre Island in 1554

Have you seen the signs? Launched by the Texas Historical Commission (THC) in 1998, the Texas Heritage Trails Program is an award-winning initiative that combines history and tourism to enhance the exploration of Texas's rich heritage. Its origins trace back to 1968 when Governor John Connally established ten scenic driving trails for the HemisFair International Exposition, which formed the basis for today's heritage regions. In 1997, the Texas Legislature directed the THC to develop a statewide heritage tourism program, creating ten distinct heritage regions covering all 254 counties in Texas. This initiative has significantly boosted local economies by increasing tourism and preserving historic resources for future generations. In 2005, the program received national acclaim with the Preserve America Presidential Award, recognizing its exemplary efforts in heritage preservation and sustainable tourism. The Texas Heritage Trails promotes ten-themed automobile tours focusing on regional tourism and providing training and financial assistance to local communities for developing historic sites. Communities involved saw a notable tourism increase of approximately 20%. Whether you're a history buff or seeking unique adventures, the Texas Heritage Trails offer a remarkable way to discover hidden gems across the state. For more information, visit texastimetravel.com.

At the center of San Saba stands the majestic San Saba County Courthouse, completed in 1911. Showcasing a Classical Revival style, this architectural landmark features a rusticated base made of local sandstone, grand columns with Ionic capitals, and an impressive domed clock tower. Architect Walter Chamberlain adorned the exterior with pressed red brick, making it a striking structure in the area. After serving the community for over a century, the courthouse underwent a remarkable transformation through a dedicated two-decade restoration effort. With over $5.2 million in funding from the Texas Historical Commission, meticulous work was carried out to preserve its original features. This included reconstructing decorative elements and restoring historic clockworks and the bell. The THC operates the Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation Program, a comprehensive initiative that has provided over $247 million in matching grants to restore historic courthouses across the state. Established in 1999, the program aims to preserve Texas' architectural heritage while ensuring these buildings remain functional centers for local government. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gmEHkueC

Last Saturday, history enthusiasts gathered at the French Legation in Austin for the 2024 Texas Archeology Fair! Visitors enjoyed a day filled with hands-on activities celebrating our rich heritage! A heartfelt thank you to everyone who stopped by and made the day truly special! We also want to extend our gratitude to all our amazing partners who set up booths and led engaging activities. Your contributions brought history to life and enriched the experience for everyone involved. This event is part of Texas Archeology Month (TAM), which honors our state's history through various activities throughout October. For more events check the TAM Calendar: https://lnkd.in/gVkFNe3b We can’t wait to see you all next year!

Pittsburg's commitment to its Main Street program has been a cornerstone of the city's development for nearly four decades. Since joining in 1985, Pittsburg has focused on preserving its historical charm while fostering economic growth. A key aspect of these efforts is the comprehensive grant program, which includes four distinct grants: front facade, rear facade, interior improvement, and signage. These initiatives encourage property owners to invest in their buildings, maintaining the downtown area's historic character while modernizing functionality. Several street improvement projects have also enhanced the downtown experience. The conversion of an alley into a pedestrian-only walkway has created a more inviting atmosphere, while new sidewalks improve accessibility for all visitors. Increased lighting in the area not only enhances safety but also encourages evening foot traffic, benefiting local businesses. Pittsburg is actively working on creating a historic art and entertainment district that showcases unique shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. Currently, the city is fundraising for a life-size statue of Carroll Shelby, honoring this hometown hero and further celebrating its rich history. Through these thoughtful initiatives, Pittsburg's Main Street program continues to breathe new life into its downtown, preserving its significance while adapting to modern community needs. Learn more about the Texas Main Street Program: bit.ly/texasmainstreet

The Texas Historic Preservation Tax Credit program, initiated in January 2015, incentivizes property owners to rehabilitate historic buildings by offering government rebates. As of July 2024, the program has supported 453 projects, resulting in over $3.56 billion in qualified expenditures. Texas boasts one of the nation’s strongest state tax credit programs, offering a robust 25% tax credit on eligible projects, which can be combined with a federal 20% credit, significantly enhancing the financial feasibility of ambitious rehabilitation efforts. One notable project is the Merchants Ice and Cold Storage Company complex in San Antonio, which faced numerous challenges due to its structural issues and unique design. After several failed development attempts, a new team proposed converting the site into scientific lab and office spaces, aiming to revitalize it as a key part of an innovation corridor in East San Antonio. The project has successfully utilized state and federal historic tax credits to address financial hurdles, transforming a vacant property into a hub for job creation and attracting innovative firms to the area. Read more about the Merchants Ice and Cold Storage Company complex in the newest edition of the Medallion, a quarterly THC publication: https://lnkd.in/g6tK4wUf

Join the Caddo Mounds State Historic Site for Caddo Culture Day, an event celebrating the rich history and vibrant contemporary culture of the Caddo people. On November 2, enjoy various activities, including traditional cooking, storytelling, and cultural demonstrations. The day kicks off with a welcome message, followed by traditional cooking with Chase Kahwinhut Earles, and then Caddo stories with Kricket Rhoads-Connywerdy. Throughout the day, explore Caddo artist booths, geocaching, outdoor loom activities, seed saving, and more! Food will be available from Tacos Perez. Admission is free, but donations to the Friends of Caddo Mounds are appreciated. Please remember to respect Native American regalia and personal space. Event: https://lnkd.in/gKQkufBN

Clifton is gearing up to host the Smithsonian's traveling exhibit, "Crossroads: Change in Rural America," which will offer a unique opportunity to explore the evolution of rural America right in Bosque County. The area's fertile soil and abundant water from the Bosque River attracted early settlers, including Norwegian immigrants who established the largest Norwegian colony in the Southwest. In 1997, the state legislature designated Clifton the "Norwegian Capital of Texas." Visitors can immerse themselves in Clifton's heritage by exploring the Bosque Museum, the “Crossroads” home base. The museum houses artifacts from the area's Native American and Norwegian settlers. Additionally, the town's well-preserved Norse Historic District showcases the rural lifestyle of early Norwegian settlers. Clifton has a thriving arts scene, recognized as one of the nation's top 100 small art communities. Central to this vibrant culture is the Bosque Arts Center, a hub for visual and performing arts. Public art initiatives and its hometown members of the prestigious Cowboy Artists of America make the town a dynamic destination for art enthusiasts. Don't miss this opportunity to discover Clifton and its connection to rural America's past, present, and future. The Smithsonian exhibit will be on display at the Bosque Museum from October 12 to December 1. For more information: https://lnkd.in/g8RXHc3s 📸: Hog on display at Fair, Bosque County Historical Commission via Portal to Texas History

Celebrate the beginning of fall the German way. Join Varner-Hogg Plantation State Historic Site on October 5 for its annual Hogg-toberfest! From 12-9 p.m., enjoy food trucks, beer, a vendor market, games and activities for all ages, and live music featuring The Brazoswood German Club, The Lizards, and Jeff Arionus. Tickets are just $5 and available to purchase at the gate! Event info: https://lnkd.in/gkPQB-5W 📸: Ima Hogg with a polka band