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Texas Historical Commission Recognizes Shumla Archaeological Research and Education Center for Historic Preservation Excellence

For 28 years, the Shumla Center has conducted preservation, research, and documentation projects in the Lower Pecos Canyonlands region of southwest Texas and northern Mexico.

a line of African American men in Union blue Civil War uniforms on a sunny day. About five of the men on the left are holding and firing rifles, with a large plume of smoke rising from their weapons. Several other men in uniforms stand in line on the right, looking on and holding their rifles. Two white tents are in the background behind the men, along with many green trees. The ground is covered with green grass.

Buffalo Soldiers National Museum Recognized for Museum Excellence

The Buffalo Soldier Museum, located in the Midtown area of Houston, has preserved and interpreted African American military history and the experience of those who served.

A photograph of an older man with white hair and glasses, wearing a navy blazer, speaking into a microphone while holding an award plaque. He is presenting the plaque, angled away from the camera, in an indoor setting.

Dr. Tom Hester Receives Lifetime Archeology Achievement Award

Few scholars have had an influence on Texas archeology as extensive as Hester.

a smiling older man with white hair, wearing a denim button-down shirt over a black t-shirt. He is holding up a small black folding shovel that has the name "Cactus Bill" and small cactus illustrations hand-painted on the blade in white and yellow.

Weatherford’s Bill Warren Honored for Contributions to Historic Preservation

With work crossing multiple organizations over many decades, Warren’s leadership, expertise, and dedication have made a profound impact on historic preservation in North Central Texas—particularly in Parker County. 

A photograph of a farmstead featuring a two-story white farmhouse, a windmill, and a split-rail fence in the foreground.

Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm Receives Texas Historical Commission Award for Excellence in Community Heritage

From its school and library programs to interactive demonstrations that highlight traditional lifeways, the farm has increased visitation, expanded school tour participation, and widened its social media reach.

A professional headshot of a woman with short blonde hair and glasses, wearing a vibrant blue blouse with stud detailing. She is smiling and resting her hand on the back of a black chair against a grey background.

Dallas Film Producer Receives Texas Historical Commission Award for Documentary About Archeological Site Near Florence

Olive Talley is the producer of The Stones Are Speaking, a 2025 documentary dedicated to archeologist Mike Collins and his efforts to preserve 30 acres of a prehistoric site near Florence, Texas, that had been targeted by archeological looters

a smiling woman with wavy blond hair, glasses, and a dark top standing behind a white-clothed table at an indoor event in a rustic, wood-paneled room. Several framed artworks are on display on the table: a pencil drawing of a dance hall on the left and two photographs, one of building windows and one of a landscape, on the right. In front of the photographs is a glass tip jar with a label reading "TEXAS DANCE HALL PRESERVATION FUND CONTRIBUTIONS."

League City’s Steph McDougal Honored for Outstanding Volunteer Work

McDougal is a preservationist and tireless volunteer who has supported cultural and historic preservation, including Texas’ iconic dance halls.

Mission San José Receives Texas Historical Commission Award Recognizing Excellence in Historic Architecture

The collective restoration work at Mission San José represents a long‑term, multifaceted preservation effort incorporating material conservation, structural rehabilitation, and a comprehensive approach to the ongoing care of one of Texas’ most significant historic properties.

She is wearing a bright blue shirt with black abstract patterns and black pants. She is holding a plaque with text that reads "COLLIN COUNTY HISTORICAL COMMISSION LIVING LEGACY AWARD Linda Rose Allen Heritage Guild 2021." There is an American flag on a pole to her left and a large screen with an image projected on it behind her.

Collin County’s Paula Ross Receives Influential County Leadership Award

Paula Ross served as chair of the Collin CHC from 2012 to 2023. During her tenure, Collin CHC received 11 Distinguished Service Awards for its historic preservation programs. 

Shary Heights Listed in the National Register of Historic Places

Shary Heights exemplifies the post-war suburban expansion that transformed the entire nation, including the Lower Rio Grande Valley.