All Historic Site Events
June 2023
June 10
Every second Saturday of the month, we open the site two hours early just for cyclists. Come and bike the Birthplace of Texas without worrying about cars.
When: Every second Saturday; 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Where: Enter through the gates at the base of the reflection pool. There will be places to park your car outside the gates.
Ages: Cycling Saturdays are open to all...
June 10
Join us weekends in June for our very popular Villa de Austin Photoquest!
Our Villa de Austin Photoquest is a scavenger hunt activity with clues leading visitors to each of our outdoor buildings representing real buildings that existed in the town 200 years ago. With each clue comes a photo prompt to complete it! This activity is perfect for families, friends, or even amateur...
June 10
The Sam Bell Maxey House State Historic Site invites Paris, North Lamar, and Chisum ISD staff to visit the Maxey House! Join us for a special tour of the Maxey House between Saturday, June 10 and Friday, June 16 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm at no cost to you*. Site hours are Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.
We hope to see you then!
*Free admission with city and/or work ID card...
June 10
10a-4p
Preserving food was one of the biggest jobs in the spring and summer for the times of year when food is not as plentiful. Join us while we preserve food from the garden and discuss methods of filling our larder for the future months. Contact Barb King at barbara.king@thc.texas.gov or 936-878-2214 x248 for more information.
June 10
Stretch your legs and honor the memory of the Texas Revolution with a bike ride at the battleground. Join us for a guided bike tour of the San Jacinto Battleground.
When: Saturday, June 10; 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Where: Meet by the entrance to the San Jacinto Monument; between the reflection pool and the Monument
Activity Level: Easy. Most of the route is flat with two...
June 10
Calling all knitters and crocheters! Join us to celebrate World Wide Knit (& Crochet) in Public Day at the San Jacinto Battleground. You bring the yarn, we’ll provide the water, and we’ll celebrate in the shade at the San Jacinto Battleground.
When: Saturday, June 10; drop in between 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Where: Outside the San Jacinto Monument, under the trees. See below...
June 10
Join us Saturday, June 10th at 10am in the Stephen F. Austin State Park Nature Center (located one mile west of San Felipe de Austin State Historic Site) for a program discussing a few of many enslaved and free black citizens living in the town 200 years ago. These people contributed to the town in many different ways and their legacy still lasts into our modern town of San Felipe today. This...
June 10
In 19th century Texas, before the mass production of everyday items, making your own traditional handicrafts at home was a common occurrence for rural families, and though it was predominantly done for practical purposes, often the product conveyed an individual's unique flair and style.
Make your way to the Kreische house to learn more about the rural crafts that would have been...
June 10
In 19th century Texas, before the mass production of everyday items, making your own traditional handicrafts at home was a common occurrence for rural families, and though it was predominantly done for practical purposes, often the product conveyed an individual's unique flair and style.
Make your way to the Kreische house to learn more about the rural crafts that would have been...
June 10
BOOM! Have you ever wondered how to load a cannon or seen one fired? This weekend, visitors to the San Jacinto Monument can learn how to load a cannon and watch regular cannon demonstrations. It will be a blast, literally!
When: Saturday, June 10; 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.; cannon fire will be on the hour and the half hour
Where: Outside the San Jacinto Monument
Ages: All...
June 10
Join Capitol Art Society artist Beryl Kerwick for this live plein air art demonstration at the French Legation. Beryl will do a demonstration of her technique while explaining her method and the equipment needed for plein air painting.
This artist demonstration is part of the temporary exhibit Common Ground / Terrain D'entente. The French Legation State Historic Site in partnership...
June 10
After his victory at the Alamo, Santa Anna and his army are on their way, you must quickly decide what to take on your journey and make your way to safety with the help of your friends and family. This is the Runaway Scrape Escape, the newest program at the Star of the Republic Museum. Guests, ages 10 and up, must use teamwork and problem-solving skills to decipher puzzles and riddles to get...
June 11
Join us weekends in June for our very popular Villa de Austin Photoquest!
Our Villa de Austin Photoquest is a scavenger hunt activity with clues leading visitors to each of our outdoor buildings representing real buildings that existed in the town 200 years ago. With each clue comes a photo prompt to complete it! This activity is perfect for families, friends, or even amateur...
June 11
10a-4p
Preserving food was one of the biggest jobs in the spring and summer for the times of year when food is not as plentiful. Join us while we preserve food from the garden and discuss methods of filling our larder for the future months. Contact Barb King at barbara.king@thc.texas.gov or 936-878-2214 x248 for more information.
June 11
Casa Navarro’s Cornapalooza
Join Casa Navarro in a block party to celebrate corn with music, dance, and food.
Please call Casa Navarro for more information.
June 11
Guests will be provided all the supplies they'll need, including plants and a container, to make their very own fairy garden. Join us for a fun afternoon of whimsy!
$15 per fairy garden. Reservations and prepayment are required. For reservations or questions please call 903-935-3044.
June 14
Barbara Judkins, the Site Manager and principal cook, is venturing into uncharted territory by experimenting with recipes from 19th century cookbooks. It's risky but could yield great results or turn out to be a culinary blunder! Stop by and see what happens. For June we decided to kick up the flavor game with some herb infused oils and vinegars. One recipe we will be using is a...
June 15
This free webinar will cover resources available, genealogy terminology and an overview of the U.S. census forms. Forms and other information will be available for download or mailed, upon request. Q & A will be at the end of the webinar.
Register for the webinar today!
June 17
Join us for a FREE Father's Day celebration of Dads, Dads-to-be, and the Dads we've found (or who found us) on life's way!
On June 17th from 9:00-11:00, the Sam Bell Maxey House will be celebrating with complimentary donuts, milk, coffee, and yard games as we celebrate! We'll also have a fun scavenger hunt kids can do with their dads in the house.
This event is rain or shine,...
June 17
Join us weekends in June for our very popular Villa de Austin Photoquest!
Our Villa de Austin Photoquest is a scavenger hunt activity with clues leading visitors to each of our outdoor buildings representing real buildings that existed in the town 200 years ago. With each clue comes a photo prompt to complete it! This activity is perfect for families, friends, or even amateur...
June 17
Fort McKavett was more than just a military outpost. It was a community of workers, contractors, tradesmen, and businessmen whose talents built and maintained the fort. Come see our volunteers work many unique trade skills that would have helped maintain this frontier installation! For more information, contact Rhett Kearns at Rhett.Kearns@thc.texas.gov or at 325-396-2358.
June 17
10a-4p
Though purchased at the price of others’ freedom, Dr. Anson Jones and his sons enjoyed a variety of gentlemanly pursuits in their leisure time, including card playing, hunting, and fishing. Join the world of the Jones men and try your luck at cards while sitting in the cool of the dogtrot of the house, or head to the field for a demonstration of the 1850s method for taking wild...
June 17
Do you have the urge to create something, but don't know where to begin? Join us once a month for our Make-A-Thing class where we provide the materials and the know how to jump start your creativity. From fans to sugar skulls and everything in-between, we offer a wide range of projects that you can take home and embellish to your heart's content!
September's project is fan-making....
June 17
Washington was the capitol of the Republic of Texas from 1842-1845. Due to recent sign additions to the townsite, you can now see where many of the government buildings were during this time period! Join us for a guided walking tour where you will learn about the men who ran Texas and see the spots where their important decisions were made. Tours are every hour from 10am-4pm. For more...
June 17
Fort McKavett was more than just a military outpost. It was a community of workers, contractors, tradesmen, and businessmen whose talents built and maintained the fort. Come see our volunteers work many unique trade skills that would have helped maintain this frontier installation! For more information, contact Rhett Kearns at Rhett.Kearns@thc.texas.gov or at 325-396-2358.
June 17
Join us at the museum to try your hand at activities and skills needed by kids during the Republic era. This month, we’ll be exploring Tin Punching from 11-4 or until supplies run out. Contact Jennifer Parsley at 936-878-2461 x 238 or jennifer.parsley@thc.texas.gov
June 17
Join us at the museum to try your hand at activities and skills needed by kids during the Republic era. This month, we’ll be exploring Tin Punching from 11-4 or until supplies run out. Contact Jennifer Parsley at 936-878-2461 x 238 or jennifer.parsley@thc.texas.gov
June 17
German Texans in La Grange and all around the German belt loved to gather for a good time, and often played for luck and chance in casino halls and vereine meetings. Learn about the types of gaming that would have been played within German circles, including nine-pin bowling, "42," and Skat.
All games will be played in the Kreische House formal parlor. Informal tours will also be...
June 17
German Texans in La Grange and all around the German belt loved to gather for a good time, and often played for luck and chance in casino halls and vereine meetings. Learn about the types of gaming that would have been played within German circles, including nine-pin bowling, "42," and Skat.
All games will be played in the Kreische House formal parlor. Informal tours will also be...
June 17
Join us for us on the grounds of the French Legation for a Father's Day celebration of dads, dads-to-be, and all the father figures in our lives! Voodoo Doughnuts will be available with admission but the grounds are always free during open hours.
On June 17th the grounds are open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with tours (and donuts with admission, while supplies last) available...
June 17
Do you know where General Santa Anna set up his camp during the Battle of San Jacinto or where General Houston was shot? How about where the Surrender Tree was located? Discover the San Jacinto Battleground like you've never seen it before on a staff-led van tour of the battlefield. Tours start shortly after the showing of Texas Forever!!
When: Tours start at 12:45 p.m., 1:45 p.m. and...
June 17
Eisenhower Birthplace is excited to host A Slice of History: Women Like Ike. Throw it back to a 2000s style pizza party while exploring why so many women voted for Ike. Come make “campaign” pins inspired by Ike or featuring something you stand for, take part in throw-back crafts and games, complete trivia sheets to win prizes, meet other members of the Denison community, and have some...
June 17
Military historians often fall into the trap of looking at battle from the bird’s-eye view of the commanders. After all, they are the ones making the decisions and often leaving the most detailed accounts. However, this perspective ignores the experience of the rank-and-file soldiers on the ground. In "San Jacinto: The Experience of Battle," renown Texan historian Stephen Hardin uses countless...
June 18
Thinking of making a family outing for Father's Day? We are offering free admission for all fathers and fatherly figures all Father's Day long! With something for everyone and every age, it's bound to be a great day!
We are open from 9am to 5pm and this offer is good all Father's Day long! The story starts here, at San Felipe de Austin!
June 18
Join us weekends in June for our very popular Villa de Austin Photoquest!
Our Villa de Austin Photoquest is a scavenger hunt activity with clues leading visitors to each of our outdoor buildings representing real buildings that existed in the town 200 years ago. With each clue comes a photo prompt to complete it! This activity is perfect for families, friends, or even amateur...
June 18
10a-4p
Though purchased at the price of others’ freedom, Dr. Anson Jones and his sons enjoyed a variety of gentlemanly pursuits in their leisure time, including card playing, hunting, and fishing. Join the world of the Jones men and try your luck at cards while sitting in the cool of the dogtrot of the house, or head to the field for a demonstration of the 1850s method for taking wild...
June 18
Do you know where General Santa Anna set up his camp during the Battle of San Jacinto or where General Houston was shot? How about where the Surrender Tree was located? Discover the San Jacinto Battleground like you've never seen it before on a staff-led van tour of the battlefield. Tours start shortly after the showing of Texas Forever!!
When: Tours start at 12:45 p.m., 1:45 p.m. and...
June 18
Get on your bikes and ride! The annual Juneteenth Social Ride is here! Presented by our friends at Black History Bike Ride.
Meet at the Texas African American History Memorial (at the Texas Capital, near 11th & Congress) at 6pm on June 18th, 2023 for an evening of riding bikes and learning about Austin’s Black history.
This year’s Juneteenth event will follow a route...
June 20
Looking for fun? Come join Starr Family Home and Table Ready for a night of board games. Grab your friends and family and head over to the Blake House on the site of the Starr Family Home, every third Tuesday of the month, 4:00-7:00pm. Board games will be set up in the Blake House for all to play. Guidance and instructions provided.
June 21
Pack up your lunch and join us at the Magoffin Home State Historic Site Visitor Center for the Brain Trust Brown Bag Lecture series. Every month a lecturer discusses a topic from history, including how it's preserved. Each lecture is a new topic ranging from an historic recipe to archiving family photos. You bring your lunch and curiosity, we will provide tables, chairs, and the scintillating...
June 24
Join us weekends in June for our very popular Villa de Austin Photoquest!
Our Villa de Austin Photoquest is a scavenger hunt activity with clues leading visitors to each of our outdoor buildings representing real buildings that existed in the town 200 years ago. With each clue comes a photo prompt to complete it! This activity is perfect for families, friends, or even amateur...
June 24
Join us at Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site Saturday, June 24th from 10am-4:30pm for the Annual Judge Eddie E. Harrison Juneteenth Heritage Celebration! The event is Family friendly and FREE to enjoy! This year we are celebrating the Legacy of the Black Cowboy. There will be great food, vendors, live music and performers, a genealogy workshop, and cowboy demonstrations. In the...
June 24
San Augustine, Texas – On Saturday, June 24, Mission Dolores State Historic Site will host a free program with Dr. Francis X. Galan, author of the award-winning book, Los Adaes: the First Capital of Spanish Texas.
Galan, Associate Professor of History at Texas A&M University-San Antonio, will be discussing what he discovered about the history of Mission Dolores during his research...
June 24
In connection with historical farming methods, the French Legation invites visitors to join us and other growers and makers at the French Legation on Saturday, June 24th. Enjoy the grounds and learn more about our kitchen garden. Demonstration by Pacha Mama Bees on modern bee keeping at 1:00pm.
June 24
Do you know where General Santa Anna set up his camp during the Battle of San Jacinto or where General Houston was shot? How about where the Surrender Tree was located? Discover the San Jacinto Battleground like you've never seen it before on a staff-led van tour of the battlefield. Tours start shortly after the showing of Texas Forever!!
When: Tours start at 12:45 p.m., 1:45 p.m. and...
June 25
Join us weekends in June for our very popular Villa de Austin Photoquest!
Our Villa de Austin Photoquest is a scavenger hunt activity with clues leading visitors to each of our outdoor buildings representing real buildings that existed in the town 200 years ago. With each clue comes a photo prompt to complete it! This activity is perfect for families, friends, or even amateur...
June 25
June 25th, 10a-4p: Focus Day- Okra, Peanuts, and Potatoes
The garden kept by those enslaved at Barrington provided diversity to an otherwise bland diet, and more importantly filled the gaps in nutrition. Join us as we explore the heirloom varieties growing in the garden in the Quarter and take home a few seeds to start your own garden! Contact Ben Baumgartner at ben.baumgartner@...
July 2023
July 1
The San Jacinto Battleground is home to more than 200 species of birds, and the best time to see them is first thing in the morning. Every first Saturday of the month, we open two hours early so birders and photographers can enjoy early morning at the site. The site is open to vehicles, but we ask that visitors be respectful of those enjoying the wildlife and keep noise to a minimum.
...
July 1
Why are old recipes so strange? Join us at the Magoffin Home State Historic Site Visitor Center as we discuss this and look at the role food played in the daily lives of 19th Century El Paso. This month's recipe comes from the El Paso Cookbook published in 1898. Call 533-5147 to reserve your spot!
Cost: $5
COOKING CLASS SCHEDULE 2022-2023
September- Postre de Arroz...
July 1
10a-4p
We’re cooking desserts and discussing picnics and entertainment Dr. Jones might have seen around the 4th of July holiday. Contact Barb King at barbara.king@thc.texas.gov or 936-878-2214 x248 for more information.
July 1
Join us for a fun mosaic coaster craft at the Maxey House!
Saturday, July 1 at 10:00 am
$5 per person
All ages are welcome!
Reservations required: https://bit.ly/sbmh-mosaics
July 1
Barbara Judkins, the Site Manager and principal cook, is venturing into uncharted territory by experimenting with recipes from 19th century cookbooks. It’s risky but could yield great results or turn out to be a culinary blunder. As she stirs up these vintage dishes, only time will tell what the outcome will be. We cannot allow guests to taste the food but will give away recipes. For...
July 1
Learn more about the celebrations of the Independence Day on the Bluff. Activities include 4th of July themed tours, ice cream making, a crafty activity, and more. Details to follow.
July 1
Learn more about the celebrations of the Independence Day on the Bluff. Activities include 4th of July themed tours, ice cream making, a crafty activity, and more. Details to follow.
July 1
Fort McKavett was more than just a military outpost. It was a community of workers, contractors, tradesmen, and businessmen whose talents built and maintained the fort. Come see our volunteers work many unique trade skills that would have helped maintain this frontier installation! For more information, contact Rhett Kearns at Rhett.Kearns@thc.texas.gov or at 325-396-2358.
July 1
BOOM! Have you ever wondered how to load a cannon or seen one fired? This weekend, visitors to the San Jacinto Monument can learn how to load a cannon and watch regular cannon demonstrations. It will be a blast, literally!
When: Saturday, July 1; 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.; cannon fire will be on the hour and the half hour
Where: Outside the San Jacinto Monument
Ages: All...
July 1
Noah Smithwick described the Texas Army that marched on Bexar in 1835 by saying, “Words are inadequate to convey an impression of the appearance of the first Texas army as it formed in marching order. Nothing short of ocular demonstration could do it justice. It certainly bore little resemblance to the army of my childhood dreams.”
While Smithwick wasn’t with the army at San Jacinto (...
July 1
When Joseph Magoffin helped write the articles of Incorporation for El Paso, he helped shape the modern city. In this series, we will compare Joseph’s vision for El Paso to what is has become in the last 150 years. Guest speakers from municipal agencies will be invited to speak about their departments and let us know why and when we might need to call upon them to help us keep El Paso thriving...
July 2
10a-4p
We’re cooking desserts and discussing picnics and entertainment Dr. Jones might have seen around the 4th of July holiday. Contact Barb King at barbara.king@thc.texas.gov or 936-878-2214 x248 for more information.
July 2
Learn more about the celebrations of the Independence Day on the Bluff. Activities include 4th of July themed tours, ice cream making, a crafty activity, and more. Details to follow.
July 2
Learn more about the celebrations of the Independence Day on the Bluff. Activities include 4th of July themed tours, ice cream making, a crafty activity, and more. Details to follow.
July 2
On an active cattle ranch like the McCormick’s at San Jacinto, the family would have churned butter a couple of times a week. Once the cows were milked, the milk was left to settle so the cream could rise to the top. The cream was then skimmed off and added to a churn, where the constant motion produced butter by separating the yellow fat from the buttermilk.
Join us at our butter...
July 8
Every second Saturday of the month, we open the site two hours early just for cyclists. Come and bike the Birthplace of Texas without worrying about cars.
When: Every second Saturday; 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Where: Enter through the gates at the base of the reflection pool. There will be places to park your car outside the gates.
Ages: Cycling Saturdays are open to all...
July 8
Ground cloths were used by military and civilians alike, be it to use as a shelter, cover, or a pad on the ground as its name suggests. Painted cloths are a mixture of oils to make a primitive waterproofing. Participants will need to purchase their materials and bring their own sewing notions. For more information, contact Rhett Kearns at Rhett.Kearns@thc.texas.gov or at 325-396-2358.
July 8
The Sam Bell Maxey House State Historic Site invites city of Paris Hospitality to visit the Maxey House! Join us for a special tour of the Maxey House between Saturday, July 8 and Friday, July 14 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm at no cost to you*. Site hours are Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.
We hope to see you then!
*Free admission with city and/or work ID card.
July 8
10a-4p
Dr. Jones penned in his journal on July 13, 1854, that those enslaved– “Commenced taking corn blade fodder.” Although very few ears of corn were used to feed livestock, the dried leaves of the corn plants made excellent hay (fodder) that could be fed to them as needed to supplement foraging. Come pull and make “hands” (bunches) of fodder from our corn crop! Contact Ben...
July 8
Stretch your legs and honor the memory of the Texas Revolution with a bike ride at the battleground. Join us for a guided bike tour of the San Jacinto Battleground.
When: Saturday, July 8; 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Where: Meet by the entrance to the San Jacinto Monument; between the reflection pool and the Monument
Activity Level: Easy. Most of the route is flat with two...
July 8
Please join us at Stephen F. Austin State Park (located 1 mile west of San Felipe de Austin State Historic Site) for a presentation discussing Austin's first contract with the newly formed and newly independent Mexican government. As the first empresario (or land contractor) in a state and country that still didn't have a working constitution, Austin was given many powers that later...
July 9
10a-4p
Dr. Jones penned in his journal on July 13, 1854, that those enslaved– “Commenced taking corn blade fodder.” Although very few ears of corn were used to feed livestock, the dried leaves of the corn plants made excellent hay (fodder) that could be fed to them as needed to supplement foraging. Come pull and make “hands” (bunches) of fodder from our corn crop! Contact Ben...
July 9
After his victory at the Alamo, Santa Anna and his army are on their way, you must quickly decide what to take on your journey and make your way to safety with the help of your friends and family. This is the Runaway Scrape Escape, the newest program at the Star of the Republic Museum. Guests, ages 10 and up, must use teamwork and problem-solving skills to decipher puzzles and riddles to get...
July 9
Do you know where General Santa Anna set up his camp during the Battle of San Jacinto or where General Houston was shot? How about where the Surrender Tree was located? Discover the San Jacinto Battleground like you've never seen it before on a staff-led van tour of the battlefield. Tours start shortly after the showing of Texas Forever!!
When: Tours start at 12:45 p.m., 1:45 p.m. and...
July 15
Music was a central component to both Schuetzenverein events and everyday life within the community. From big brass bands to singing within the Kreische house, music shaped German Texan life for the La Grange Community.
In this special presentation, learn more about the history of German music in Texas and join us for some familiar tunes in the Kreische formal parlor. Presentations and...
July 15
Music was a central component to both Schuetzenverein events and everyday life within the community. From big brass bands to singing within the Kreische house, music shaped German Texan life for the La Grange Community.
In this special presentation, learn more about the history of German music in Texas and join us for some familiar tunes in the Kreische formal parlor. Presentations and...
July 15
10a-4p
Wear some old clothes and help us paint the house fence and kitchen interior with whitewash. A traditional part of spring cleaning increases the life of the buildings and fences. Contact Barb King at barbara.king@thc.texas.gov or 936-878-2214 x248 for more information.
July 15
Do you have the urge to create something, but don't know where to begin? Join us once a month for our Make-A-Thing class where we provide the materials and the know how to jump start your creativity. From fans to sugar skulls and everything in-between, we offer a wide range of projects that you can take home and embellish to your heart's content!
September's project is fan-making....
July 15
Anyone else feeling the Texas heat yet? Beat the heat with a WATER BALLOON FEST at the Maxey House!!
Wear your bathing suits and join us at 10:00 am on July 15th as we toss balloons, enjoy some wacky water balloon races, and play some yard games after everyone dries off!
Give us a call at 903-785-5716 for more info!
July 15
Workshop guests will make a wine bottle hummingbird feeder with all supplies and tools provided. $20 per feeder. Registration and prepayment are required. Don't miss this opportunity to add an artisian touch to your landscape and help the birds! For reservation or questions please call 903-935-3044.
July 15
Join us at the museum to try your hand at activities and skills needed by kids during the Republic era. This month, we’ll be making Ragdolls from 11-4 or until supplies run out. Contact Jennifer Parsley at 936-878-2461 x 238 or jennifer.parsley@thc.texas.gov
July 16
Music was a central component to both Schuetzenverein events and everyday life within the community. From big brass bands to singing within the Kreische house, music shaped German Texan life for the La Grange Community.
In this special presentation, learn more about the history of German music in Texas and join us for some familiar tunes in the Kreische formal parlor. Presentations and...
July 16
Music was a central component to both Schuetzenverein events and everyday life within the community. From big brass bands to singing within the Kreische house, music shaped German Texan life for the La Grange Community.
In this special presentation, learn more about the history of German music in Texas and join us for some familiar tunes in the Kreische formal parlor. Presentations and...
July 16
10a-4p
Wear some old clothes and help us paint the house fence and kitchen interior with whitewash. A traditional part of spring cleaning increases the life of the buildings and fences. Contact Barb King at barbara.king@thc.texas.gov or 936-878-2214 x248 for more information.
July 16
Stop by the San Jacinto Museum for a chance to play with replicas of 19th-century toys, weapons, tools, food, clothing, and much more. Learn all about the battle of San Jacinto and life on the Texas frontier, and imagine yourself in the shoes of a soldier or a frontiersman/frontierswoman.
When: Sunday, July 16; drop in between 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Where: San Jacinto Museum...
July 18
Looking for fun? Come join Starr Family Home and Table Ready for a night of board games. Grab your friends and family and head over to the Blake House on the site of the Starr Family Home, every third Tuesday of the month, 4:00-7:00pm. Board games will be set up in the Blake House for all to play. Guidance and instructions provided.
July 19
Pack up your lunch and join us at the Magoffin Home State Historic Site Visitor Center for the Brain Trust Brown Bag Lecture series. Every month a lecturer discusses a topic from history, including how it's preserved. Each lecture is a new topic ranging from an historic recipe to archiving family photos. You bring your lunch and curiosity, we will provide tables, chairs, and the scintillating...
July 22
10a-4p
According to one 1850s farming periodical, “Farmer Thrifty” kept a neat and well-maintained farm, while “Squire Slipshod” allowed his barn, tools, and fences to fall into filth and disrepair. Dr. Jones noted in his journal on August 5, 1847, that the enslaved “Cleaned up Barn & Stables.” – following the model of “Farmer Thrifty”. Join us as we tackle the seasonal maintenance...
July 22
Do you know where General Santa Anna set up his camp during the Battle of San Jacinto or where General Houston was shot? How about where the Surrender Tree was located? Discover the San Jacinto Battleground like you've never seen it before on a staff-led van tour of the battlefield. Tours start shortly after the showing of Texas Forever!!
When: Tours start at 12:45 p.m., 1:45 p.m. and...
July 23
10a-4p
According to one 1850s farming periodical, “Farmer Thrifty” kept a neat and well-maintained farm, while “Squire Slipshod” allowed his barn, tools, and fences to fall into filth and disrepair. Dr. Jones noted in his journal on August 5, 1847, that the enslaved “Cleaned up Barn & Stables.” – following the model of “Farmer Thrifty”. Join us as we tackle the seasonal maintenance...
July 29
Join us in enjoying the natural landscape of the Bluff in this outdoor painting program. More details to follow.
July 29
Join us in enjoying the natural landscape of the Bluff in this outdoor painting program. More details to follow.
July 29
10a-4p
Fancy learning 1850s style? You can mind your manners and your ABCs for a period school lesson at the Jones’ home while getting ready to head back for your upcoming school year! Contact Barb King at barbara.king@thc.texas.gov or 936-878-2214 x248 for more information.
July 29
Clothes have always gotten dirty, especially on a frontier ranch like the McCormick’s at San Jacinto. Before mechanical washing machines were invented, women relied on scrubbing their family’s clothes against a washboard to clean them, then hanging them up on a line to dry. It could take all day to do a family’s laundry!
Learn how laundry was done in the 1830s and help us clean some...
July 30
10a-4p
Fancy learning 1850s style? You can mind your manners and your ABCs for a period school lesson at the Jones’ home while getting ready to head back for your upcoming school year! Contact Barb King at barbara.king@thc.texas.gov or 936-878-2214 x248 for more information.
July 30
Children on the frontier had to make their own entertainment. Homemade toys like a buzzsaw or button whirligig were popular because they were easy to make and only used common household items. Try making your own buzzsaw toy. We'll provide the materials; all you need is your creativity.
When: Sunday, July 30; drop in between 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.
Where: San Jacinto Museum...
August 2023
August 1
Fort McKavett was more than just a military outpost. It was a community of workers, contractors, tradesmen, and businessmen whose talents built and maintained the fort. Come see our volunteers work many unique trade skills that would have helped maintain this frontier installation! For more information, contact Rhett Kearns at Rhett.Kearns@thc.texas.gov or at 325-396-2358.
August 1
When Joseph Magoffin helped write the articles of Incorporation for El Paso, he helped shape the modern city. In this series, we will compare Joseph’s vision for El Paso to what is has become in the last 150 years. Guest speakers from municipal agencies will be invited to speak about their departments and let us know why and when we might need to call upon them to help us keep El Paso thriving...
August 5
The San Jacinto Battleground is home to more than 200 species of birds, and the best time to see them is first thing in the morning. Every first Saturday of the month, we open two hours early so birders and photographers can enjoy early morning at the site. The site is open to vehicles, but we ask that visitors be respectful of those enjoying the wildlife and keep noise to a minimum.
...
August 5
Why are old recipes so strange? Join us at the Magoffin Home State Historic Site Visitor Center as we discuss this and look at the role food played in the daily lives of 19th Century El Paso. This month's recipe comes from the El Paso Cookbook published in 1898. Call 533-5147 to reserve your spot!
Cost: $5
COOKING CLASS SCHEDULE 2022-2023
September- Postre de Arroz...
August 5
10a-4p
Taking a break, or “nooning,” in the heat of the day would help both enslaved and free 19th century farmers renew their energy on a long day in the blazing Texas sun! A little rest, food, water, and shade goes a long way. Pack a lunch and join us under the cottonwood trees by the crop fields as we take a break from our labors and recover so that we can finish out the day strong...
August 5
On April 22, the day after the Battle of San Jacinto, Captain James Tarleton wrote a letter to his brothers describing the battlefield as “the most beautiful prairie, handsomely variegated with small groves of timber.” However, a lot has changed over the last 187 years. The San Jacinto visitors see today looks very different than the one where General Houston and General Santa Anna fought....
August 6
10a-4p
Taking a break, or “nooning,” in the heat of the day would help both enslaved and free 19th century farmers renew their energy on a long day in the blazing Texas sun! A little rest, food, water, and shade goes a long way. Pack a lunch and join us under the cottonwood trees by the crop fields as we take a break from our labors and recover so that we can finish out the day strong...
August 6
Stop by the San Jacinto Museum for a chance to play with replicas of 19th-century toys, weapons, tools, food, clothing, and much more. Learn all about the battle of San Jacinto and life on the Texas frontier, and imagine yourself in the shoes of a soldier or a frontiersman/frontierswoman.
When: Sunday, August 6; drop in between 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Where: San Jacinto Museum...
August 12
Every second Saturday of the month, we open the site two hours early just for cyclists. Come and bike the Birthplace of Texas without worrying about cars.
When: Every second Saturday; 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Where: Enter through the gates at the base of the reflection pool. There will be places to park your car outside the gates.
Ages: Cycling Saturdays are open to all...
August 12
The Sam Bell Maxey House State Historic Site invites city of Paris Historic Preservation Commission, Planning, Public Library, & Community Development to visit the Maxey House! Join us for a special tour of the Maxey House between Saturday, August 12 and Friday, August 18 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm at no cost to you*. Site hours are Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.
We hope to...
August 12
10a-4p
There are 1,774 miles between Anson Jones’ hometown in Great Barrington, Massachusetts and where he lived in Washington, Texas. How did he get there? Long distance travelers in 19th century America have quite a commute! Stop by the house and see how folks like Dr. Jones embarked on their travels through Texas. Contact Barb King at barbara.king@thc.texas.gov or 936-878-2214 x248...
August 12
BOOM! Have you ever wondered how to load a cannon or seen one fired? This weekend, visitors to the San Jacinto Monument can learn how to load a cannon and watch regular cannon demonstrations. It will be a blast, literally!
When: Saturday, August 12; 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.; cannon fire will be on the hour and the half hour
Where: Outside the San Jacinto Monument
Ages:...
August 13
10a-4p
There are 1,774 miles between Anson Jones’ hometown in Great Barrington, Massachusetts and where he lived in Washington, Texas. How did he get there? Long distance travelers in 19th century America have quite a commute! Stop by the house and see how folks like Dr. Jones embarked on their travels through Texas. Contact Barb King at barbara.king@thc.texas.gov or 936-878-2214 x248...
August 15
Looking for fun? Come join Starr Family Home and Table Ready for a night of board games. Grab your friends and family and head over to the Blake House on the site of the Starr Family Home, every third Tuesday of the month, 4:00-7:00pm. Board games will be set up in the Blake House for all to play. Guidance and instructions provided.
August 16
Pack up your lunch and join us at the Magoffin Home State Historic Site Visitor Center for the Brain Trust Brown Bag Lecture series. Every month a lecturer discusses a topic from history, including how it's preserved. Each lecture is a new topic ranging from an historic recipe to archiving family photos. You bring your lunch and curiosity, we will provide tables, chairs, and the scintillating...
August 19
10a-4p
According to one 1850s farming periodical, “Farmer Thrifty” kept a neat and well-maintained farm, while “Squire Slipshod” allowed his barn, tools, and fences to fall into filth and disrepair. Dr. Jones noted in his journal on August 5, 1847, that the enslaved “Cleaned up Barn & Stables.” – following the model of “Farmer Thrifty”. Join us as we tackle the seasonal maintenance...
August 19
Do you have the urge to create something, but don't know where to begin? Join us once a month for our Make-A-Thing class where we provide the materials and the know how to jump start your creativity. From fans to sugar skulls and everything in-between, we offer a wide range of projects that you can take home and embellish to your heart's content!
September's project is fan-making....
August 19
On an active cattle ranch like the McCormick’s at San Jacinto, the family would have churned butter a couple of times a week. Once the cows were milked, the milk was left to settle so the cream could rise to the top. The cream was then skimmed off and added to a churn, where the constant motion produced butter by separating the yellow fat from the buttermilk.
Join us at our butter...
August 20
10a-4p
According to one 1850s farming periodical, “Farmer Thrifty” kept a neat and well-maintained farm, while “Squire Slipshod” allowed his barn, tools, and fences to fall into filth and disrepair. Dr. Jones noted in his journal on August 5, 1847, that the enslaved “Cleaned up Barn & Stables.” – following the model of “Farmer Thrifty”. Join us as we tackle the seasonal maintenance...
August 20
Do you know where General Santa Anna set up his camp during the Battle of San Jacinto or where General Houston was shot? How about where the Surrender Tree was located? Discover the San Jacinto Battleground like you've never seen it before on a staff-led van tour of the battlefield. Tours start shortly after the showing of Texas Forever!!
When: Tours start at 12:45 p.m., 1:45 p.m. and...
August 26
10a-4p
Why is it important to know how to write a letter? Diaries, journals, and correspondence all contain the voice of their authors and details for their reader. Learn how to send a letter in 1850 and try writing with a pen and ink. Contact Barb King at barbara.king@thc.texas.gov or 936-878-2214 x248 for more information.
August 26
Come join us and make a one-of-a-kind Junk Journal. If you aren't sure what they are, we'll tell you. Junk Journals are handmade books of recycled and found materials and ephemera. The pages can be used to write, draw, paint or record memories, thoughts, ideas and inspiration. the finished junk journal can become anything you want!
August 26
Do you know where General Santa Anna set up his camp during the Battle of San Jacinto or where General Houston was shot? How about where the Surrender Tree was located? Discover the San Jacinto Battleground like you've never seen it before on a staff-led van tour of the battlefield. Tours start shortly after the showing of Texas Forever!!
When: Tours start at 12:45 p.m., 1:45 p.m. and...
August 27
10a-4p
Why is it important to know how to write a letter? Diaries, journals, and correspondence all contain the voice of their authors and details for their reader. Learn how to send a letter in 1850 and try writing with a pen and ink. Contact Barb King at barbara.king@thc.texas.gov or 936-878-2214 x248 for more information.
September 2023
September 1
In 1868, after nine years of neglect, the US Army returned to Fort McKavett and began rebuilding its structures. The Texas Rifles living history organization will portray the 35th Infantry Regiment assigned to rebuild and maintain Fort McKavett, along with general soldierly duties, like receiving pay, drill, and leisure. For more information, contact Rhett Kearns at Rhett.Kearns@thc.texas.gov...
September 1
Fort McKavett was more than just a military outpost. It was a community of workers, contractors, tradesmen, and businessmen whose talents built and maintained the fort. Come see our volunteers work many unique trade skills that would have helped maintain this frontier installation! For more information, contact Rhett Kearns at Rhett.Kearns@thc.texas.gov or at 325-396-2358.
September 2
The San Jacinto Battleground is home to more than 200 species of birds, and the best time to see them is first thing in the morning. Every first Saturday of the month, we open two hours early so birders and photographers can enjoy early morning at the site. The site is open to vehicles, but we ask that visitors be respectful of those enjoying the wildlife and keep noise to a minimum.
...
September 2
Join us on September 2nd to celebrate and learn about Caddo culture and history in the ancestral homeland of the Caddo people.
Enjoy artisans, vendors, and other activities. Food vendor TBA (but, we are hoping the Alabama-Coushatta Pow-wow Club will be serving up Indian tacos)!
Cameras are permitted and lawn chairs and/or blankets are encouraged.
Admission is free, but...
September 9
Every second Saturday of the month, we open the site two hours early just for cyclists. Come and bike the Birthplace of Texas without worrying about cars.
When: Every second Saturday; 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Where: Enter through the gates at the base of the reflection pool. There will be places to park your car outside the gates.
Ages: Cycling Saturdays are open to all...
September 9
The Sam Bell Maxey House State Historic Site invites city of Paris Finance, IT, Airport, City Clerk, Engineering, HR, City Manager, and City Attorney to visit the Maxey House! Join us for a special tour of the Maxey House between Saturday, September 9 and Friday, September 15 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm at no cost to you*. Site hours are Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.
We hope to...
September 19
Looking for fun? Come join Starr Family Home and Table Ready for a night of board games. Grab your friends and family and head over to the Blake House on the site of the Starr Family Home, every third Tuesday of the month, 4:00-7:00pm. Board games will be set up in the Blake House for all to play. Guidance and instructions provided.
September 20
Pack up your lunch and join us at the Magoffin Home State Historic Site Visitor Center for the Brain Trust Brown Bag Lecture series. Every month a lecturer discusses a topic from history, including how it's preserved. Each lecture is a new topic ranging from an historic recipe to archiving family photos. You bring your lunch and curiosity, we will provide tables, chairs, and the scintillating...
September 30
“There's a yellow rose in Texas that I am gonna see, Nobody else could miss her, not half as much as me.” The lyrics of “The Yellow Rose of Texas” are familiar to any Texan, but the true story behind the song is lost in myth and legend. Learn how the “Yellow Rose of Texas” became the unofficial state anthem and how grit and determination brought a free Black woman from the abolitionist riots...
October 2023
October 1
Fort McKavett was more than just a military outpost. It was a community of workers, contractors, tradesmen, and businessmen whose talents built and maintained the fort. Come see our volunteers work many unique trade skills that would have helped maintain this frontier installation! For more information, contact Rhett Kearns at Rhett.Kearns@thc.texas.gov or at 325-396-2358.
October 7
The San Jacinto Battleground is home to more than 200 species of birds, and the best time to see them is first thing in the morning. Every first Saturday of the month, we open two hours early so birders and photographers can enjoy early morning at the site. The site is open to vehicles, but we ask that visitors be respectful of those enjoying the wildlife and keep noise to a minimum.
...
October 7
This fall is a great time for Foraging with Merriwether!
Caddo Mounds State Historic Site invites you to a foraging workshop with Mark “Merriwether” Vorderbruggen. Mark writes the Foraging Texas Blog, http://www.foragingtexas.com/, and is a practiced forager and teacher. His book Foraging: Explore Nature's Bounty and Turn Your Foraged Finds Into Flavorful Feasts (Outdoor...
October 7
The Sam Bell Maxey House State Historic Site invites city of Paris Public Works and Public Utilities to visit the Maxey House! Join us for a special tour of the Maxey House between Saturday, October 7 and Friday, October 13 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm at no cost to you*. Site hours are Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.
We hope to see you then!
*Free admission with city and/or...
October 13
The past will come to life at Fort Griffin State Historic Site on October 13-14, 2023, as living historians gather to portray life at the fort and nearby Wild West town as it was in the 1870's. You're invited to join us from 9 am to 4 pm both days for exciting demonstrations, education, and authentic frontier history.
Admission is free during this event!
If you are a teacher...
October 14
Every second Saturday of the month, we open the site two hours early just for cyclists. Come and bike the Birthplace of Texas without worrying about cars.
When: Every second Saturday; 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Where: Enter through the gates at the base of the reflection pool. There will be places to park your car outside the gates.
Ages: Cycling Saturdays are open to all...
October 14
Join us for our annaul archeology day and star party! Our staff will show you how this active archeological site has transformed since its town days ended nearly fifty years ago. When the sun goes down, members from the Johnson Space Center Astronomical Society will set up telescopes so you can get a special viewing of the nighttime sky! Evening event participants must fill out a waiver and be...
October 14
You are cordially invited to experience the vibrant spirit of the 1830s at the San Jacinto Fall Fandango on October 14, 2023, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.! In a frontier world where neighbors lived miles apart, social gatherings like a fandango were essential for socializing and forming tight-knit communities.
Try your luck in authentic historical games, experience period music while...
October 15
Each October, the Texas Historical Commission celebrates TAM, an opportunity for Texans to appreciate the depth and richness of our heritage through the lens of archeology. Across the state, TAM events such as archeology fairs, demonstrations, take-home activity kits, museum tours and special exhibits, lectures and presentations, and history walks highlight the valuable information that...
November 2023
November 4
The San Jacinto Battleground is home to more than 200 species of birds, and the best time to see them is first thing in the morning. Every first Saturday of the month, we open two hours early so birders and photographers can enjoy early morning at the site. The site is open to vehicles, but we ask that visitors be respectful of those enjoying the wildlife and keep noise to a minimum.
...
November 4
Before an army could fight, it had to be fed! Soldiers in the Texas Army were usually supplied with the basic ingredients and had to make their own food out of what was provided.
In his memoirs of the Texas Revolution, Dr. Labadie wrote that the day before the Battle of San Jacinto, he “secured a small tin pan full, and having made it into dough, I threw it on the hot embers, and in...
November 11
Every second Saturday of the month, we open the site two hours early just for cyclists. Come and bike the Birthplace of Texas without worrying about cars.
When: Every second Saturday; 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Where: Enter through the gates at the base of the reflection pool. There will be places to park your car outside the gates.
Ages: Cycling Saturdays are open to all...
November 11
The Sam Bell Maxey House State Historic Site invites city of Paris Fire, EMS, Police, and Municipal Court to visit the Maxey House! Join us for a special tour of the Maxey House between Saturday, November 11 and Friday, November 17 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm at no cost to you*. Site hours are Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.
We hope to see you then!
*Free admission with city...
November 17
Fort McKavett was established by the 8th Infantry Regiment in 1852 and was occupied by the Army until 1859. What did the soldiers do here in the pre-Civil War (Antebellum) era? Come see the soldiers perform drill, fatigue duty, and leisurely activities as they would have 170 years ago. For more information, contact Rhett Kearns at Rhett.Kearns@thc.texas.gov or at 325-396-2358.
December 2023
December 2
The San Jacinto Battleground is home to more than 200 species of birds, and the best time to see them is first thing in the morning. Every first Saturday of the month, we open two hours early so birders and photographers can enjoy early morning at the site. The site is open to vehicles, but we ask that visitors be respectful of those enjoying the wildlife and keep noise to a minimum.
...
December 9
Every second Saturday of the month, we open the site two hours early just for cyclists. Come and bike the Birthplace of Texas without worrying about cars.
When: Every second Saturday; 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Where: Enter through the gates at the base of the reflection pool. There will be places to park your car outside the gates.
Ages: Cycling Saturdays are open to all...
December 9
Did you miss us during "your week"? Now is your chance to come see us! The Sam Bell Maxey House State Historic Site invites ALL City of employees to visit the Maxey House! Join us for a special tour of the Maxey House between Saturday, December 9 and Friday, December 15 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm at no cost to you*. Site hours are Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.
We hope to see you...
December 16
Step back in time and tour the plantation house decorated in the style of a mid-1800s Texas Christmas. See the feather tree, learn about toys popular for gift giving during this period, and view the dining room table set for a sumptuous holiday feast. Relax outside and enjoy the beverage of the season, wassail, and Christmas cookies. Victorian Santa will also be available for photos.
...
December 2024
December 21
Step back in time and tour the plantation house decorated in the style of a mid-1800s Texas Christmas. See the feather tree, learn about toys popular for gift giving during this period, and view the dining room table set for a sumptuous holiday feast. Relax outside and enjoy the beverage of the season, wassail, and Christmas cookies. Victorian Santa will also be available for photos.
...
December 2025
December 20
Step back in time and tour the plantation house decorated in the style of a mid-1800s Texas Christmas. See the feather tree, learn about toys popular for gift giving during this period, and view the dining room table set for a sumptuous holiday feast. Relax outside and enjoy the beverage of the season, wassail, and Christmas cookies. Victorian Santa will also be available for photos.
...