Fort McKavett State Historic Site
West Texas' frontier forts conjure nostalgia for a different time, when the landscape was undeveloped and wagons dotted the rolling hills. In the mid-1800s, Fort McKavett and Fort Lancaster hosted U.S. Army soldiers while settlers were seeking a safe journey on their treks out west. Experience the frontier forts and discover other heritage attractions in West Texas.
On June 19, 1865, Union troops in Texas, based out of Galveston, began to enforce the end of slavery following the Civil War. Approximately 250,000 enslaved Black Texans had new legal status, which was further codified when the 13th Amendment was ratified later in the year. Last week, we hosted a discussion about the impact of emancipation for the newly free Texans who had been enslaved at Levi Jordan and Varner-Hogg plantations.
San Jacinto Battleground in La Porte
This summer, families can enjoy plenty of healthy activities when visiting a state historic site, including hiking, camping, boating, biking, and more. The second Saturday of every month, San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site opens two hours early just for cyclists. Join them at their next Cycling Saturday on July 9 from 7 to 9 a.m. and explore five miles of road by bicycle while viewing the markers and monuments commemorating the Battle of San Jacinto.
Magoffin Home State Historic Site in El Paso
Planning to stay local this summer? Explore several of our historic road trip itineraries, featuring destinations to experience heritage and history across Texas.
Discover state historic sites, outdoor attractions, and local food and lodging and create new memories while stepping into the past.
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