October Texas Historical Comission News: Step Inside the Birthplace of Texas
October 2025
Washington-on-the-Brazos Reopens This Fall
Washington-on-the-Brazos, the birthplace of Texas, is reopening its doors on November 8 with a bold new vision that celebrates the state’s rich past and bright future. After extensive renovations, visitors can explore deeper, more immersive stories of the Republic era and the events of 1836.
Be among the first to experience the reimagined visitor center, the expanded Star of the Republic Museum with new theaters and interactive exhibitions, and a recreated Washington Townsite that brings history to life like never before. Mark your calendar and join us for this historic reopening!
October is Texas Archeology Month (TAM), a statewide celebration led by the Texas Historical Commission (THC) that shines a spotlight on the state’s rich archeological heritage.
Archeology enthusiasts can explore a variety of events and programs happening across Texas, including at our state historic sites. Find a TAM event near you and discover the fascinating stories that bring Texas history to life.
Since 2006, this initiative has shared more than 200 important stories by awarding free historical markers that fill in gaps and celebrate often-overlooked chapters. Nominations for new Undertold Markers are now open through November 15. Help tell the Texas history that deserves to be remembered.
Early 1940s Saturday afternoon street scene in Killeen
Register Your Community for First Street Initiative
Cities and towns looking to revitalize their historic downtowns can join the THC’s First Street Initiative to gain practical tools, strategies, and peer support. First Street is the ideal first step for communities planning to apply to the Texas Main Street Program, but cities can also participate year after year to keep building on their progress. THC staff will help guide communities toward Main Street success when they’re ready to take the next step.
Restored Moody-Wheeler Building in San Angelo's historic downtown is open for lease
Imagine the Possibilities of a Downtown Space
This fall, the “Imagine the Possibilities” tour invites you to step inside vacant and underutilized downtown buildings and see how historic preservation fuels economic growth and community revitalization. The tour connects investors, entrepreneurs, and residents with property owners and preservation leaders, showcasing the potential of historic spaces to spark new opportunities. Explore available properties across Texas’ downtowns at downtowntx.org and join us in one of three Main Street cities this October:
Learn proper techniques for cleaning, leveling, and repairing historic gravestones in this in-depth, two-day workshop led by Texas Cemetery Restoration’s Rusty Brenner and THC staff. Participants will gain hands-on skills in gravestone preservation using a do-no-harm ethic, with support from the Lana Hughes Nelson Endowment Fund for Cemetery Preservation.
It's Time for a Fall Fandango!
October 25, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
The San Jacinto Fall Fandango invites you to relive the lively gatherings of the 1830s, when neighbors from miles apart came together to celebrate. This free family event brings frontier life to the monument grounds with living history activities, saloon games, heritage artisans, cooking demonstrations, vendors, and more.
Congratulations San Marcos Main Street!
The Great American Main Street Award honors communities that excel in preservation-based revitalization, with only 115 programs recognized since 1995. This year, San Marcos is one of eight semifinalists, celebrated for 40 years of transformation, $40 million in reinvestment, and a thriving cultural and business district! With its strong community partnerships, San Marcos continues to set a high standard for Main Street revitalization.
