Austin, TX - The Texas Historical Commission (THC) has recognized the Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm at Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site as the 2025 recipient of the Anice B. Read Award of Excellence in Community Heritage Development.
The award acknowledges an individual or organization for exemplary work in community revitalization, preservation planning and protection, or heritage tourism that significantly advances historic preservation in Texas. It is one of 10 annual THC Preservation Awards, recognizing individuals and organizations involved in various aspects of historic preservation.
Located in Stonewall, the Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm has built meaningful connections with visitors of all ages through hands-on interpretation of the early-20th-century German American farming experience, ongoing community outreach, and a strong digital presence. 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 notable rise in artifact donations—including items contributed by descendants of the Sauer and Beckmann families—reflects a renewed local investment in preserving regional heritage.
The team’s commitment to storytelling, education, and community partnership continues to bring the history of the Texas Hill Country to life. The Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm has strengthened heritage tourism and deepened public engagement with Texas history.
About Preservation Awards
The THC Preservation Awards recognize and honor those who have committed themselves to saving the real places and real stories of Texas. The awards celebrate their accomplishments and exemplary leadership in the preservation of Texas’ heritage.
The awards will be presented at the THC’s Real Places 2026 conference, April 8-10, in Austin and online. Presented by the Friends of the Texas Historical Commission in partnership with Phoenix 1 Restoration and Construction, LLC, Real Places is the premier historic preservation and heritage tourism event in the Lone Star State. It offers world-class sessions, workshops, tours, special events, entertainment, and networking activities, while bringing together many different audiences under the banners of history, heritage, and preservation.
About the Texas Historical Commission
The THC manages 42 state historic sites, the Texas Heritage Trails Program, Texas Main Street Program, and many more heritage tourism and historic preservation initiatives across the state. For more information, visit thc.texas.gov.