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The Friends of the Texas Historical Commission partners with the Texas Historical Commission to preserve and promote the real places and real stories of Texas, including our state historic sites.
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Greetings for the fall, y’all!
This year seems to have gone by faster than usual, but that’s what happens when we are having fun! It has been a busy few months for us here at the Friends of the Texas Historical Commission (FTHC), with a lot of activity above and beyond the normal of continuing to build philanthropic support for the programs and projects of the Texas Historical Commission (THC).
The FTHC continues to steadily grow and expand its role as a partner to the THC in more out-of-the-box ways than before. Even as we continue our traditional fundraising efforts, we have also stepped up to secure critical additions to the THC’s portfolio of historic sites. In August, the FTHC completed its sixth transaction of real property for the THC, acquiring a circa 1950s house adjacent to the Eisenhower Birthplace State Historic Site in Denison. This property, once transferred to the THC, will create a protective buffer between the critical historic resources at the site and the adjacent active neighborhood, while also providing additional operational space.
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 A carefully curated menu and keynote address by Texas Monthly’s José Ralat were hallmarks of Tastes of Texas—Along the FTHC at the Etter-Harbin Alumni Center on October 9. This biennial gala brought together a diverse group of guests sharing a love of history, commitment to historic preservation, and an appreciation for the culinary traditions unique to Texas.
Stretching up through the Rio Grande Valley to East Texas, El Camino Real and its people provided thematic inspiration. Incorporating the foodways of the indigenous people who first called Texas home, the French and Spanish wo arrived along Texas shores, the German and Czech immigrants, the enslaved and later Freedom Colony settlers, and the cowboys who worked the land and cattle, the FTHC provided guests with Texas history on a plate.
 Are you a college student looking for a fun, inspiring internship with the THC? Apply to the 2025 Preservation Scholars Program! Applications for the 2025 Preservation Scholars Program open on November 6.
This program provides internships at the THC for students from underrepresented backgrounds who are interested in exploring the field of historic preservation. Scholars will have the opportunity to grow skills in key areas conducive to career success, develop relationships with professionals working in and around the field, and gain experience with and exposure to a range of ideas, projects, and people in the real-world environment of historic preservation. We invite you to learn more about this exciting opportunity!
2024 has been a year of growth, impact, and shared successes. Thanks to supporters like you, we have made great strides in preserving and celebrating the rich history of Texas. Your generosity has led to the grand opening of the new visitor's center and museum at Caddo Mounds State Historic Site and the acquisition of archeologically significant and historic properties adjacent to Goodnight Ranch State Historic Site and Eisenhower Birthplace State Historic Site. Together, we can ensure that future generations have the opportunity to experience the unique heritage of our great state.
Giving Tuesday, on December 3, offers an incredible opportunity to build on our mission of supporting the THC in historic preservation across Texas. Whether through a one-time gift, recurring donation, or simply spreading the word, every contribution makes an impact. Please consider supporting the FTHC this Giving Tuesday and help us continue our efforts to protect historic sites, expand educational programs, and preserve the stories of Texas for years to come. Together, we can create powerful change.
Mark your calendars! The Texas Historical Commission’s ninth annual Real Places conference, presented in partnership with our Title Partner Phoenix I Restoration and Construction LLC, is scheduled for April 23–25, 2025 in Austin. Registration for the Real Places 2025 conference will open on November 6.
We’re grateful to the Texas Land Title Association and Komatsu Architecture for their generous support of the 2025 Real Places Conference, Texas’ premier historic preservation event. The 2025 conference will once again gather professionals and volunteers from various fields dedicated to historic preservation in Texas. Network with like-minded individuals, learn from experts, and gain valuable insights to enhance your programs. Don’t miss the opportunity to save over $150 by registering before the early-bird deadline of December 20. Click below for information and updates.
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