Have you ever stopped and read those Texas Historical Markers along Texas roads? They are so interesting, and some are quite amazing. You’ll find stories of outlaws, Indian raids, Texas Rangers and more fascinating characters and places.
Texas isn’t the only state with a program that keeps track of historical places, interprets their importance, and sees that the site is maintained properly. Every state in the United State has some sort of preservation. Each state has its own method and means of honoring the past. Since I live in Texas, I will try to explain our Texas Historical Commission activities. Almost all counties in the state have Historical Commissions.
I have been a member of the Hunt County Historical Commission since the fall of 1980. I have helped plant trees on the courthouse square to signify the beginning of the Republic of Texas. Yes, we had a few brave souls living in the area. We have named several places on the National Register of Historic Places. In Greenville where I live, we have plaques for the first railroad, for the seven courthouses that have served us on the same spot, for the Camp House, and for the Courthouse where folks often dropped in to see a trial in times before movies or television. There are also markers for the railroad depot on the west side of downtown hosted Harry Truman when he campaigned in 1945, the Post Office not far from the railroad depot when Audie Murphy joined the Army and became the man with the most medals in World War II, and the Washington Hotel in downtown Greenville. The owner who resided in a suite there was found murdered late one night after a poker game. No one was arrested for there was no evidence.
The Hunt County Historical Commission also worked to find more than 200 graveyards in the county. The group published a map showing all the cemeteries, even if there was only one grave there.
The Historical Commission also administers National Register of Historic Places. These are stellar recognition of historic places. Both Historical Markers and National Register of Historic Places require a historic paper that is submitted to National Register and Historical Markers for approval. The projects can be difficult but working with other members of the local commission makes everything easier.
To complete each Texas Historical Commission application is an absolute breath of fresh air and a huge relief, no matter how many you have completed.
If you are interested in getting involved with your local historical commission, I suggest contacting your local County Judge or Chamber of Commerce.