Events for 2010-2011
Events for 2010-2011 
Remember, this calendar can only be accurate with the help of the groups hosting these events. If you have corrections, changes, or updates, please email the webmaster. Thanks!
Please note that there are a LOT of other local events. For example, Washington on the Brazos and the Barrington Farm, the Alamo, and Jesse Jones Park have things going on most of the year, monthly or as often as weekly. Check the calendar(s) of sites near you!
Aug 21, 2010 - Battle of Medina
10 AM, This year the Battle of Medina commemoration will commence at 10:00
A.M. August 21st northwest of Leming, Texas on Applewhite Road (see directions
below). THE PUBLIC IS INVITED!!!
Pre-1840 reënactors are needed to parade the
colors and for volley fires for a short ceremony. The participants well relocate
to an air conditioned location for the remainder of the ceremonies. Contact Tom
Green (tbgreen3@prodigy.net) at
832-687-3474.
How to Get There: From San Antonio, go south
on US 281 toward Leming and Pleasanton. Cross Loop 1604 and go about 6 miles;
watch for FM 536 on the left. Turn RIGHT there onto Pleasanton Rd. Turn LEFT at
the second intersection onto Bruce Rd. Bruce Rd will veer left, then right, then
left in the next 2 1/2 miles; turn RIGHT onto Applewhite Rd. Watch the right for
a big tree and the battleground.
About the Battle of Medina:
August 18, 1813. The Federalist´s army of native Texians and American
volunteers are defeated at the Battle of Medina south of San Antonio by Spanish
"royalists" resulting in the most casualties of any battle in the western United
States. The Spanish army pursued the survivors to the neutral zone of Louisiana.
The army under Spanish General Joaquin de Arredondo killed many adult males
across Tejas and impressed their families into forced labor in Bexar. Lt.
Antonio López de Santa Anna participated in the defeat of the first "Republic of
Texas" as a member of the Spanish Army. This event is rated
3.
Sept 17-18, 2010 - Texas Heroes Day - The Legend Lives Friday and Saturday,
the annual Texas Heroes Day - The Legend Lives Event will take place at the
Texas Parks and Wildlife's Monument Hill and Kriesche Brewery State Historic Site in La
Grange, Texas. This event is co-produced by the Friends of Monument Hill
Kreische Brewery, the Monument Hill Chapter of the Daughters of the Republic of
Texas, Chapter Number 53 of the Sons of the Republic of Texas, and the Friends
of the Fayette Library and Museum. This two day event will celebrate the
contributions made by the men of the ill-fated 1842 Dawson Massacre and the 1846
Meir Expedition. Every year this event is held on the weekend closest to
September 18th when the remains were placed in their final burial site on the
bluff above the scenic Colorado River valley which is now part of the state
park.
Friday, the Fayette Library and Archives is offering extended hours and
a 6 PM private reception and archival presentation for families and scholars
researching the historical period between 1836 - 1840's when Texas gained
independence from Mexico as a Republic through its transition into Statehood.
Visitors are encourage to bring private historical collections with them to this
event in order that those items can be copied or donated to the Fayette Archive
adding to the efforts to grow the body of knowledge of this time period in this
historic, central Texas region. Fayette County was part of the original Stephen
F. Austin colony.
Saturday will feature historical re-enactments, a historic
flag display, period craft demonstrations and music in addition to a
commemorative program beginning at 9 AM at the Park. This year's commemorative
program is To Be Announced. The Saturday program ends at Noon with a
picnic.
Free handicap accessible, bus shuttles are offered using satellite
parking at St. Paul's Lutheran Church on US 77 and Walnut Street in La Grange.
The Park fee are $3 for adults and $2 for children under the age of twelve.
Visitors are encouraged to bring their own picnic and folding chairs to enjoy a
day in the Park. Proceeds from the tickets and donations go to the continuance
and development of the Park's interpretive program that focuses on the 1836 -
1840's period history. Refreshments will be available for sale.
Monument Hill
Kriesche Brewery State Historical Park is located one mile south of La Grange,
Texas off U.S. 77 and Spur 92. The park is one mile west on Spur 92.
Contact
Information:
Monument Hill
Kreische Brewery State Historical Park at 979-968-5658
Reenactors
contact:Lennie Brown
info@texanatrailslodge.com979.247.4457
Historical information about the
Dawson Massacre and/or the Mier Expedition see the Handbook of Texas online at
www.tsha.utex.edu/handbook/online/
Sept 18, 2010 - Texian Navy
Day ; Texian Navy Day honors the contributions of the Texian Navy
in helping secure the independence of the Republic of Texas in 1836. Long
recognized in an ad hoc manner by governors and the Texas legislature, in 2005,
the legislature enacted a law (Texas Govt Code 662.051) officially establishing
the third Saturday of each September as Texian Navy Day, which "shall be
observed with appropriate ceremonies and activities."
History has forgotten
that the lone star of the Republic of Texas shone brightly on the waters of the
Gulf of Mexico. Without the daring and dangerous exploits of the Texian Navy,
Mexico easily could have re-supplied their land armies still in Texas in the
immediate aftermath of the surrender of Gen. Santa Anna at San Jacinto or
mounted a seaborne invasion after the San Jacinto victory. The Texian Navy was
able to protect the young republic's long coastline with its many rivers, bays,
and inlets to projecting power beyond its littoral waters to Mexican coastal
towns as far away as the Yucatán. Ultimately, the Texian Navy was a real balance
of power amongst the Navies of the United States, Mexico, and the European
powers, all vying for influence in the Gulf of Mexico. The Texians' courage and
striking power were far in excess of that which reasonably could have been
expected from such a numerically disadvantaged force, and it was their fighting
spirit that made the difference.
Please help recognize this date in history
and preserve the memory of the seaborne valor of those who helped create the
Lone Star State by flying your Texas flag on this day.
Details about the Texas Navy and this year's celebration of Texian Navy Day
may be found on the SRT website (www.srttexas.org)
Sat, September
18, 10am – 11am at Matagorda Cemetery, Matagorda, Texas (map)
Honoring S. Rhoads Fisher, Secretary of the Navy and
the Republic of Texas Navy
Matagorda Cemetery is on Matagorda Cemetery Rd
just east of Hwy 60 / Fisher St between E Austin St and S Gulf Rd.
For
additional information, contact SRT Texas Navy Committee Chairman David
Hanover.
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONTACT:
David
Hanover Texas Navy Committee Chairman, The Sons of the Republic of
Texas 903 509-2206. He has additional information that he can share. This event is not rated.
October 1-3, 2010 - "Come and Take It" Days in Gonzales, Texas. In 1831 the
Mexican government loaned the citizens of Gonzales a six-pound cannon as
protection against the Indians. In September of 1835, as political unrest grew,
Mexican officials at San Antonio de Bexar demanded the cannon be returned.
A
corporal with five soldiers and an oxcart were first sent by Col. Ugartechea,
Bexar military commander, to Gonzales. The corporal carried a request that the
small reinforced cannon, a bronze six-pounder, be returned. Andrew Ponton
refused, stalling for time, and the little cannon was buried. Next came
Lieutenant Castaneda and 150 mounted soldiers to "take" the cannon. When the
soldiers appeared on the west bank of the Guadalupe River, there were only 18
men in Gonzales, but these 'Old Eighteen' stood at the river in defiance, denied
the Mexicans a crossing by hiding the ferry and sent out a call for volunteers
to assist them. As the soldiers scouted the river for a place to cross, they
moved upriver a short distance and camped for the night. There, early on Oct. 2,
1835, the colonists crossed the river with their cannon, surprising the troops
and waving their hastily fashioned flag, which proclaimed "Come and Take It."
Almost immediately the cannon fired, killing one of Castenada's men and
scattering the rest, forcing them to retreat to San Antonio de Bexar. Thus was
fired the shot that set off the struggle for Texas independence from Mexico.
When the smoke cleared, the Mexican troops had taken off. The Texas Revolution
had begun. Gonzales became known as "The Lexington of Texas", where the first
shot was fired, and where the first Texas Army of Volunteers gathered. A few
months after the first shot, men and boys from the region would gather in
Gonzales, sending the only reinforcements ever received at the Alamo. More info
at http://www.tamu.edu/ccbn/dewitt/batgonframe.htm
Each
October, on the weekend nearest the October 2 anniversary, the citizens of
Gonzales gather to celebrate their Texas heritage in a three-day festival called
"Come & Take It." In downtown Gonzales there is a parade, craft & food
booths, music and much, much more. After you've seen the parade, eaten and drank
your fill and the music is getting to you, gather up the family and head out to
the Gonzales Pioneer Village, a mile or so north of downtown. At the Pioneer
Village, you can leisurely stroll amongst 19th and early 20th century homes and
other buildings. While doing this you will receive a short history and insight
to the life and daily routine of the 1835 Texans. You will witness various
scenarios and a skirmish between the Mexican troops and the Texans. This not an
actual re-enactment of the original clash, but will give you a better
understanding of 1830's military tactics. On Saturday the Village is open from
12 noon till 5p.m. There is a small admission fee for entry, but it is well
worth it. See you there. Reenactors: This is an open event sponsored by
the Crossroads of Texas Living History Association (COTLHA) and the Gonzales
Pioneer Village. COTLHA safety rules and event protocols are in effect.
All re-enactors are welcome provided they have the proper clothing, weapons,
accouterments and camping gear for the 1836 Texas Revolution time period.
(Clothing can be machine sewn, square toe boots of two or three piece leather or
period shoes, modern eyeglasses accepted but discouraged in favor of period
eyeglasses, period tobacco products.)
Friday: Set Camp-Electricity is
available at camp sites; bring an extension cord and a fan! Hide in tent when
grounds are open. Check with Event Coordinator Dennis Riedesel at riedeseld@suddenlink.net for camping
spots! - i.e., you camp in the battle ground - you move! Supper is on your own;
traditionally we eat at the Whataburger Drive In. However you can have a camp
fire and cook any and all meals if you wish. You can bring a period sleeping bag
and sleep in some of the buildings but the beds in the houses are off
limits.
Saturday:
7:30-8:00 Traditionally we all go to the
restaurant at the Livestock Auction Barn for breakfast.
9:00 Those who want
to ride the flatbed trailer or march in the parade load up for the trip
downtown.
10:30 Downtown Parade.
12:00 Eat Lunch at the Festival Booths
downtown. Those who participated in the parade get limited food and drink
tickets - bring funds to purchase extra tickets.
1:00 Pioneer Village Opens
to public. Living History presentations and demonstrations for the
public.
3:00 Re-enactors start discussions and arguments on porch of the
Gates House in favor of following positions: Federalist, Centeralist,
Revolution, or Pacifist
3:15 Soldados take up positions-A few men on picket
duty and the rest in reserve out of sight. Remember to perform a weapons safety
check. No ram rods in the field or paper down the barrels!!!
3:30 Texian
forces prepare for battle Weapons Safety Check-Flag raising-March out of
town--Riedesel reads W. P. Smiths speech-- March to battle re-enactment
positions.
4:00 Texian fire on Soldado's Picket line. Cease fire when Dr.
Launcelot Smithers breaks from the Mexican Line to arrange a parley. Rest of the
Mexican forces reinforce the picket line. Castaneda and Moore parley but break
with no resolution to the argument. Moore shouts back, "If you want the cannon,
come and take it!" When he clears the field, the cannon fires and both sides
open fire. The Texian line advances and the Mexicans retire into the pasture.
End of battle 'til 5:00 Living history discussions and presentations with
public.
5:00 Pioneer Village closes.
5:30/6:00 Chicken and Dumplings
Dinner for Re-enactors. (This is one of the main reasons that all of us really
come for!!)(Note: Sandra has retired and someone else will be cooking, but
Chicken & Dumplings has been requested for tradition's sake.)
6:00 Break
camp if you have to leave. The rest of the evening is a period living history
party time for re-enactors.
Sunday:
7:30-8:00 Traditionally we all
go back to the restaurant at the Livestock Auction Barn for breakfast.
9:00
Pioneer Village Opens. If you are leaving Sunday morning, you must have your
camp struck and vehicle out of the Village before 9:00.
10:00 Pioneer
Village's Memorial Ceremony for the Immortal 32.
IMPORTANT NOTES:
Mosquitoes, red bugs (chiggers) and fire ants are usually a problem for
campsites; wasps, spiders & scorpions are a concern in the buildings: be
prepared.
If it is working, a shower facility is available--so bring soap and
a towel.
There is some electricity available if you bring a fan, but remember
your extension cords.
Safety Check before battle. No ramrods in the
field. Load from paper cartilages only. No paper down the barrel of any weapon.
COTLHA Safety Rules are in effect!!
Directions to back gate and
re-enactor parking: Traveling South on US 183: Turn left on to Alt. US 90.
Traveling North on US 183: Turn right on to Alt. US 90.
From Alt. US 90 Turn
north on FM 794 toward Harwood. Follow highway to Pioneer Village Back Gate
sign. Turn left and follow gravel road to gate.
CHECK ON PLANS TO REBUILD
FORT WAUL!!
Contact Dennis Riedesel
at riedeseld@suddenlink.net for more reenactor info and to RSVP, he wants to
send out info packets. This event is rated 3.
October 2, 2010 - Boonville Days Living History
Fair, sponsored by the Brazos Valley Museum of Natural History. From the
museum: "Visit with our blacksmith, flint knapper, roaming oxen, and
miscellaneous characters again; enjoy kids' crafts, basket making, a cast-iron
cook-off, pottery demonstrations, archery and more from 10 am to 5 pm. Daytime
events are FREE and open to the public. Please let me know if you or any of your
membership may be interested. We are also looking for other organizations that
may be interested in participating."
Join the Brazos Valley Museum of Natural History for the BOONVILLE DAYS
HERITAGE FAIR! This year also marks the Buffalo Stampede 5K Race and 3K Walk at
7:30am starting at the Brazos Center. Come join in the race fun, and afterwards
the entire family can enjoy this celebration of our heritage from 10 am to 4
pm.
Activities will take place both inside the Museum and on the Brazos
Center grounds. Learn about Brazos County’s pioneer history: visit with
characters in period costume, observe demonstrations of frontier skills and
trades, see an authentic stagecoach, hear from a cowboy-poet, musicians, and
much more. Our activity area will keep children busy learning to make pinch pots
and other period crafts.
Visitors can also browse through the Museum’s
Discovery Room, Library, and exhibition gallery, and explore our Texas history
display and the current exhibit, Lone Star Lizards!
To learn more about this
and other Museum events, activities and exhibitions call 979-776-2195, or visit
our website at www.brazosvalleymuseum.org.
Admission to this event and the Museum’s permanent galleries is $5 for
adults, $4 for children 4-17, students, and seniors. Members and children 3 and
under are free. The Museum, located in the Brazos Center on Briarcrest Drive, is
open to the public Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm and the first
Sunday of every month from 1-5 pm.
There is a midnight to 5 AM curfew, so overnight camping is not allowed (county rule). Bathrooms and water will be available; no dug fire pits (park rule) and above-ground fire pans may be allowed if a burn ban is not in effect then. For more info and registration contact Deborah Cowman or Henry Mayo. This event is rated 3.
October 9, 2010 - Fall at the Alamo, sponsored by the DRT - Place: On the grounds of the Alamo - Time: Setup 8 AM, event 9AM to 5PM. Lunch will be provided and parking paid. This year, the contact person is Carol Potter. Here is an email link. ALL persons interested MUST be on our attendance sheet. Contact deadline is October 1. The Alamo welcomes your participation. This event is rated 3½ .
October 15-17, 2010 - Taking of the Presidio
at Presidio La
Bahia, Goliad. This event is a reenactment of the capture of La Bahia from
the Mexican garrison by Texians under Collinsworth. (See Battle for Goliad, Oct
9 1835 above.)This is one of the rarely told stories of the Texas Revolution.
Preregistration is required (by Oct 4) including $12 per person (check payable
to "Refugio Militia c/o Doug Davenport", registration and liability forms; send these to Doug Gray,
11160 Jollyville Rd. #707, Austin TX 78759. For more info - and registration
form - contact Andrew Gray
830-832-2407 This event is rated 3½.
Howdy
all,
Before the 175th TWI season heats up next month, I wanted to take
another opportunity to pitch the Taking of the Presidio on Oct 15-17.
If you
haven't been to this event in a while, or haven't had the chance at all, the
175th anniversary is about the best time I can think of to seize the
opportunity!
The event this year will feature a dawn tactical without the
public; an afternoon skirmish representing the battle at Victoria, and will
conclude with the assault on Presidio La Bahia at dusk. Dinner prior to the main
assault is provided as part of the registration package.
Also, for those
interested, this year we will have a designated "campaign camp" for Texians who
wish to portray militia just arriving from Matagorda and Refugio traveling
light. A mainstream area for tents will be close by for anyone who requires the
usual amenities.
I am also pleased to announce that David Vickers will once
again run the Claymore Tavern.
Lastly, the first 20 people to register will
get a t-shirt included as part of their registration packet. My understanding is
that there are still some spots available. The registration deadline is Oct 4,
and the leftover shirts will be sold at the event, but the price has yet to be
determined.
Do not hesitate to contact me with any questions. The 175th
anniversary of the taking of the presidio will be the best one yet! I look
forward to seeing you there. Until then, it is my honor to remain
Your Ob't
Serv't,
Andrew
Gray
President & 1st Sgt, Refugio Militia
October 22-23, 2010 - Texian Market
Days, at the George
Ranch just south of Richmond, Texas . ;This annual living history
festival will be held Friday, October 23th (School Day) and Saturday, October
24th at the George Ranch Historical Park. The festival includes costumed staff
and volunteers presenting vignettes of daily lives and heroic moments from the
early days in Stephen F. Austin's colony (1830s) through the late years of the
Great Depression and World War II (1940s), along with toe-tapping old-time
tunes, an antique tractor show and pull (in collaboration with the Texas Antique
Tractor Pull Association), arts and crafts from around the region at the Texian
Market Place and so much more. Proceeds from Texian Market Days support the
educational programs of the Fort Bend Museum Association, including the George
Ranch Historical Park and the Fort Bend Museum.
This years’ Saturday night
volunteer dinner will be a special salute to our 25th Anniversary. If you have
any fun photos you want to contribute please contact Terri Stuart at
281-343-0218 or email tstuart@georgeranch.org
Sunday is
available for re-enactment groups to use the park as an at-your-own-pace
breakdown day or even a tactical/meeting day.
We are also seeking re-enactors
willing to appear at our Friday School Day. Last years event saw over 3,000
school kids on Friday alone.
Greetings all,
Please plan to join us
for Texian Market Days 2009. And bring your friends and colleagues who haven’t
made it in recent years to TMD.
Like last year, Market Days will be a two-day
festival, comprising a school day Friday event (from approximately 9 a.m. until
2 p.m.), and an all-day Saturday event (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.). We will continue to
hold our annual volunteer dinner on Saturday night for all who wish to
participate. Sunday will allow the freedom for volunteers to pack and leave at
their own pace so that there is no pressure to stay late into the early evening
and then drive home before the Monday workday. Also, Sunday will be available
for any reenactment group that would like to schedule and stage a tactical or
other drill for their organization. There will be no public programming that day
of any kind (the Park is closed on Sundays and Mondays as part of our operating
schedule), so groups are free to stage these activities at their
leisure.
Meals
Some Park staff and dedicated volunteers will
participate in foodways programming throughout the festival. Mostly this will be
aimed at samples for guests, though volunteers may be invited to enjoy extras.
Lunch will be provided for volunteers both Friday and Saturday during the
Festival. Reenactors are always welcome to bring and prepare period foods as
part of their interpretation. Modern snack foods and beverages will be available
on site from 12:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m.
Contacts
Please direct
specific questions about the area where you wish to volunteer to the appropriate
Park staff lead. For TMD 2010, the contacts for interpretive areas are:
JR
Thomas (1830s), Matt Driggers (1860s), (1930s) and Nick Castelberg (Foodways,
1890’s). We can all be reached through the main switchboard at the Park, by
calling (281) 545-9212.
Your registration can be faxed (281) 343-9316, mailed
or e-mailed.
Join us as we share this festival of living history,
We the
staff would like to thank you for your dedicated and generous help in making
this event possible.
Official announcement done, now it is my turn. Last
years TMD went off with a resounding success. No portapotties were stolen
(cough, cough, cough) and we only had one tent and a small patch of the field
burnt to the bare earth. Nobody was injured by flying tortillas and now was
killed with a wooden spoon. That aside, fun was had by all and I hope to see old
friends as well as make some new ones this year. If you have any ideas as to new
and interesting things that we can do this year, do not hesitate to send me an
email.
J.R. Thomas
1830's Site Lead
Festival Hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (Daily hours are the same)
Admission at
the Gate: $10 adult ($8 if purchased by October 21); $5 child ($4 if purchased
by October 21) Children 4 and younger and members of the Fort Bend Museum
Association are free. Tickets go on sale September 1, 2008. Craft
vendors, please see the Vendor
Information Package or e-mail Mitzi Jackson or call her at
281-342-1256.
For information about volunteering, please email J.R. Thomas or call him at
281-343-0218 x 278.
For information about setting up a food booth,
please email Kristi
Farquar.
For information about joining us as a sponsor of Texian Market
Days, please email Diana
Winebar or call her at 281-342-1256. This event is rated
3.
October 30, 2010 - "Battle of
Concepción" 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Admission is free. Near the old Spanish
Mission of Concepción, this battle of the Texas Revolution was fought between
the Mexican military garrisoned in town and the Texian rebels. This historical
encampment and battle reenactment will be presented across from Mission
Concepción at 919 Mission Road, adjacent to St. Peter/St. Joseph's Children's
Home. Members of the San Antonio Living History Association, using authentic
flintlock muskets, long rifles and cannon of the combatants, dress in uniforms
and clothing of the 1830s. The field event includes a historic encampment with
period demonstrations and life skills of the 1835-36 Texas Revolution. This San
Antonio Living History Association-sponsored event welcomes and invites
participation from other Texas Revolution reenactors and organizations who wish
to register for this event. For more information contact SALHA through their web site.
;This event is rated 3.
November 5-7, 2010 - Austin Town Historical Reenactment Imagine the sound of a
thunderous cannon boom as the militia is called to muster and seeing Stephen F.
Austin, Jane Long, and other historical characters living life as it was in
their time.
Step back in time with the Brazoria County Historical Museum as
it presents the annual Austin Town. A living history re-enactment, Austin Town
recalls and celebrates the lives of those pioneers who settled Colonial Texas
from 1821 to 1832. The fictitious "Austin Town" typically features character
interpreters, demonstrators, sutlers, militia drill units, and period games. The
purpose of the three-day event is not only to provide an educational and
entertaining experience for Brazoria County residents, but also to attract
visitors from outside the County who appreciate our area's wonderful history as
well.
The Austin Town site is located approximately 3 miles off of State
Highway 288 on Business 288, just north of Angleton, Texas. Public attendees:
Admission Prices are $5 for adults and $3 for children under 12 and senior
citizens over 65. Austin Town is open for school groups only on Friday.
Austin Town is open to all visitors on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and
on Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. For more information, please contact the
Program Coordinator via e-mail at programs@bchm.org or by telephone at (979)
864-1208. Registration forms are required and are expected to be online
soon at BCHM's Website. This year BCHM will be trying a new online
registration program for your convenience. This event is
rated 3.
November 5-7, 2010 - Texas Army - San Felipe EncampmentFrom Houston, travel west on Interstate 10 to FM 1458 (just before Sealy). Turn right (north) on FM 1458 and then left on Park Road 38. The camp has been across the street from Stephen F Austin State Park. Contact Jerry Tubbs for more details and the correct location for this year.This event is rated 3.
November 6, 2010 - Stephen F. Austin's Birthday Celebration, Texas State Cemetery, Austin. The Moses Austin Chapter of the Sons of the Republic of Texas are hosting a memorial service with musket volley and cannon salute, to honor Stephen F. Austin's birthday. We will start at 10:00 a.m., and the program should last about 45 minutes, or a tiny bit more. This year's speaker is TBA. From IH 35, go East on 7th street to Navasota. Turn left, cemetery main building will be up the block on your right, at the largest flagpole in East Austin. For info contact Bob Reese rreese8611@aolcom or 512-258-0599. This event is rated 3.
November 13, 2010 Pioneer Day at Jesse H.
Jones Park & Nature Center, 20634 Kenswick Drive, Humble Texas 77338- about
1 1/2 miles west of Hwy 59, off of FM 1960 (near North side of Bush
Intercontinental Airport of Houston). Calling all Texas Living History
re-enactors. We invite you to our annual Pioneer Day celebration. This
year's event will be held on Saturday, November 13 from 10:00 AM until 4:00 PM.
Our park features a complete Pioneer homestead, woodworking shop, blacksmith
shop and Akokisa Indian village. We allow period camping on both Friday and
Saturday nights. All re-enactors will receive lunch on Saturday and anyone in
period dress is invited to our after event barn dance beginning at 7:00
PM.
This event is free to the public and draws between 1500 and 3000 people
annually. This year's event will feature a Tex-Mex skirmish, historical
exhibits, arts and crafts, games and demonstrations of Pioneer skills. Our goal
is to teach Texas History and also give the public an idea of the everyday life
of the early inhabitants of Texas .
We are looking for exhibitors,
demonstrators, and participants for the skirmish.
The event guidelines and
registration form are on one Adobe .pdf document, click here. Pre-registration is required. A flyer
for the event is available on the park website www.hcp4.net/jones, also in
.pdf.
For any and all re-enactors wishing to stay Friday and/or Saturday
night, sites for period camping are available. We can accommodate several
over-nighters in the park's tents and homestead structures on a first come,
first reserved basis. Families are most welcome to stay as well. Modern
restrooms and showers are located near the homestead. We have plenty of hay,
fire rings, firewood and atmosphere to help make the stay enjoyable.
Please
contact me for directions or with any questions - Monte Parks at 281.446.8588 or
email mparks@hcp4.net For more information
on the park, it's programs and people please visit: www.hcp4.net/jones or call us
at 281.446.8588 - Monte Parks This event is rated
3½.
November 14, 2009 REPUBLIC OF TEXAS
HISTORY SYMPOSIUM at Washington-on-the-Brazos . The Republic of Texas, A Social
and Military History
Saturday, November 14th, Washington on the Brazos
SHS and Star of the Republic Museum will host a one day symposium of Republic of
Texas authors and scholars. Dr. Bruce Winders, noted military author of Mr.
Polk’s Army and curator of the Alamo will serve as the lead presenter and will
be joined by Dr. Stephen Hardin, author of Texian Iliad a Military History of
the Texas Revolution, and professor at McMurray University as well as by Dr.
Paula Mitchell Marks author of Turn Your Eyes Toward Texas : Pioneers Sam and
Mary Maverick and professor at St. Edward’s College. Joining the symposium will
be David Vickers, winner of the prestigious 2001 DRT Texas History Teacher of
the Year award, Andrew Gray, researcher of McKinney and Williams and Scott
McMahon, researcher of material culture of the Republic of Texas.
Each of the
presenters will cover a different topic related to the social and military
history of the republic. There will be a book signing during the midday break
and the park gift shop will make available titles from the published presenters.
December 11, 2010 - Battle of Béjar and the Capitulation of General Cos 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM at La Villita's Maverick Plaza. Admission is free. Reenactment of the 5-day storming of Béjar (old San Antonio) and the surrender ceremonies of the Mexican garrison by General Martín Perfecto de Cos to the Texian Federalist Army. The nearby Cos House in historic La Villita is the site of the December, 1835, capitulation that gave Texian troops control of Béjar and the Alamo fortress only three months before the famous 1836 siege and battle of the Alamo. This San Antonio Living History Association-sponsored event welcomes and invites participation from other Texas Revolution reenactors and organizations who wish to register for this event. For more information contact SALHA through their web site. Reenactors contact San Antonio Living History Assoc. Pres. Bill Barnett at 210-826-2629 or event coordinator Ed Lunderman at thistle1996@hotmail. com for more information. Note 9/5/10: the date on the SALHA event page for this event is incorrect and will be updated soon. This event is rated 3.
December 10-11, 17-18 2010 - Campfire Christmas, at the George Ranch just
south of Richmond, Texas. The families of the George Ranch are delighted to
invite you to a very special celebration of the holiday season. The evening will
include a traditional Texas meal, wagon rides, caroling and campfires, and tours
of the George Ranch homes. Travel through the park on a hay wagon, and visit the
Jones Stock Farm, decked out in Christmas cheer 1830s-style, where the family
will be gathered by candlelight to sing carols and tell stories. Visit the
George home, where early 20th century holiday traditions will come to life.
Finally, join the ranch's cowboys and their friends around the campfire to toast
the season and its blessings. The George Ranch will be cozy and our welcome will
be warm as you step into this unique holiday celebration. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED, and you
are warned that tickets sell out quick. Tickets are available for purchase
on line, and reservations are non-refundable.
For more information, please
call 281-343-0218 or 281-545-9212 x 220 or visit www.georgeranch.org.
Note: The
Campfire Christmas program takes about three hours. Please dress for a casual
evening outdoors. Bring a blanket if you wish. In true Texas fashion, Campfire
Christmas goes on regardless of the weather.
December 11, 2010 Christmas in Washington at Washington-on-the-Brazos. ; Experience the magic of the holiday season with a candlelight visit to Independence Hall, the Birthplace of Texas. Enjoy caroling in the Visitor Center while shopping for those special gifts. Afterwards, stroll down a candlelit trail to Independence Hall, and enjoy stories of Washington’s past and learn how the residents of Washington would have celebrated the holiday season. Discover the holiday traditions at Washington on the Brazos….they just might become your traditions as well. Designed to coincide with Barrington Farm’s event, this special program will be an ongoing experience from 6PM to 8PM. For more information contact Scott McMahon at 936 878-2214 ext. 224 or Scott McMahon, Park Ranger IV / Interpreter . This event is rated 3 ½.
January 22, 2011 - Pilgrim's
Camp and Swap Meet.
This year we will be at Hansen Riverside
County Park in Brazoria County (Lat: 29.112013 Lon: -95.675554 The longitude
is a negative 95 or you wind up in China). It's right off SH 35 to the west of
West Columbia, just north of the San Bernard River. map
link As before, we are stating that the public is invited, in the
intent of making sure our invitation is not misconstrued as "members only". --
Program TBA. Email Jerry Tubbs if
you have an idea (or better yet, an outline) of a presentation. Here's a link to the
flyer!
Folks from several different Texas Rev groups have joined
together to organize this annual event with the goal of providing a friendly,
safe, informative and fun place for "civilians" to explore their interest in
living history and for "old hands" to pass on their knowledge and expertise.
Camping will be available in two camps; one for modern camping and one for
period camping. Camp setup will be on Friday and we can tear down as late as
Sunday afternoon. There will be an all-day opportunity for one-on-one
discussions on the various levels of living history; the philosophy and goals of
our avocation; weapons, clothing and tools of the period; historical research,
and, above all else: safety issues. In order to provide an environment most
conducive to learning, the event will be focused toward living historians,
reënactors, those curious about our hobby, and those interested in possibly
joining us. If you have been interested in this part of Texas history, or
have wondered "how could I", then this is the event for you.
Ever wonder
how this event got started? Click here.
In
conjunction with the "Pilgrim's" Camp, the "old hands" are encouraged to bring
their surplus gear, equipment, clothes and accouterments for an old fashioned
trading session and swap meet. Be sure to bring those items you no longer
have a need for.
If you're a living historian interested in helping lead one
of the presentations or simply someone interested in getting involved in the
wonderful world of early Texas, contact Jerry Tubbs (telephone 713-973-1136) or
Charlie Yates. This year you
will need to bring firewood and we will have real bathrooms (which also
means water will be available). Of course, we are at the mercy of any burn bans,
but at this site fire pits are allowed as long as you replace the sod, as
usual. Period dress, though not required, is definitely encouraged. This event is rated 1.
February 12, 2011 - Texas Heritage Day at Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center, 20634 Kenswick Drive, Humble Texas 77338- about 1 1/2 miles west of Hwy 59, off of FM 1960 (near North side of Bush Intercontinental Airport of Houston). The event is open to the public from 10-4 and brings on average 2,500-4000 visitors. A big invitation goes out to any and all Texas history re-enactors to help bring this event together! Texas time-line: pre-historic, Spanish, French, Mexican, Texian; Colonization, Revolution, Republic, State, Civil War, Reconstruction; Texas up to 1880. For re-enactors wishing to stay Friday and/or Saturday night, sites for period camping are available. We can accommodate several over-nighters in the park's tents and homestead structures. Families are most welcome to stay as well. Modern restrooms and showers are located near campsites. We have plenty of hay, fire rings and firewood to help make the stay enjoyable. Just please pre-register with us first to make sure there is still room! Contact Monte Parks at 281.446.8588 or email mparks@hcp4.net For more information on the park, it's programs and people please visit: www.hcp4.net/jones or call 281.446.8588 -- Reenactors: Click here for forms and info at http://www.hcp4.net/jones/pdf/ReenactorGuidelinesRegistration.pdf target="_blank" This event is rated 3½.
February 19-21, 2010 - Republic of Texas Frolic in Roundtop. ;School day on Friday. Of course the site is open to the public on Saturday but doesn't open until noon on Sunday and most participants pack up and split around then so basically the event is a two day event for the participants. Throughout the day we do different things to keep ourselves and the public entertained but really the fun part of the event is after the site closes and the participants get to immerse themselves in the republic era! We decided, to keep the event fresh we'd focus on a different year (in the republic) and scenario or theme each consecutive year the event is held. We've covered everything from death to law to politics and have never "double-dipped" as it were but this year we are going to revisit the theme of the first ROT Frolic, "Entertainment in the Republic". We are already working on a sort of ROT era variety show with stage acts, recitations, magic, music and possibly even a bona-fide opera singer! Since grogshops were popular in the republic we've created one for the frolic and it's been a hit since it's unveiling back about six years ago. Our grogery generally consists of a plank and crate bar, some colorful barkeeps, card games, tall tales and lot's of entertaining "happenings"! For info contact Scott McMahon, Park Ranger IV / Interpreter . This event is rated 3½.
February 25, 2011 - The Alamo Under Siege To the people
of Texas and all Americans in the world... The Alamo under Siege - Friday,
February 25, 2011. Join us for an evening with heroes. Have you ever wondered
what the men were doing prior to the battle of The Alamo? Come experience a
reenactment of the events and conversations of the evening of March 5th, 1836,
just hours before the final attack. Seven scenarios will take you back; you will
witness history unfold. There will be four presentations that evening: 6:30 pm,
7:30 pm, 8:30 pm and 9:30 pm. Each presentation will last aproximately 45
minutes. Only 300 tickets will be sold for this event. Ticket
price is $10 for adults; $5 for children under 12. Tickets can be purchased at
the Alamo or by contacting:
Ernesto Rodriguez 210-225-1391 ext. 28 erodriguez@thealamo.org
Sherri
Driscoll 210-225-1391 ext. 35 sdriscoll@thealamo.org
February 26, 2011 - - Glory at the Alamo at Alamo Plaza in San Antonio, Texas, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Admission is free. Living history reënactments portray the beginning of the 13-day Alamo siege including the earlier-than-expected arrival of Santa Anna's Army of Operations Against Texas; early attempts to parley, an Alamo cannon shot in reply; and the reading of the famous Travis letter from the Alamo asking for aid. This San Antonio Living History Association-sponsored event welcomes and invites participation from other Texas Revolution reenactors and organizations who wish to register for this event. For more information and registration forms contact SALHA through their web site; the list of documents is on their calendar. This event is rated 3½ .
Feb 26 - 27, 2011 - Texas Independence Day Festivities at Washington-on-the-Brazos, Texas. Texas Independence Day- March 2nd, 1836 is one of, if not the most important dates in Texas history. The importance of that date is most relevant here at Washington on the Brazos SHS. Washington was the town where Texians declared independence from Mexico and as such is know as the Birthplace of Texas. Come out and spend the weekend visiting with us here at the park. Admission to the park is free and there will be folks demonstrating period crafts, food vendors from all over Texas, period music by local musicians and historic figures on hand to visit with you about the early days of Texas. There are a lot of special displays being planned for the 175th. For info or an invitation to participate on this weekend, contact Scott McMahon, Park Ranger IV / Interpreter . Scott can be reached at 936-878-2214 ext. 224. Mail is Scott McMahon - Park Ranger IV, Washington on the Brazos State Historic Site, P.O. Box 305, Washington, TX 77880. This event is rated 3½.
February 26 - March 5, 2011 - Texas Independence Day Celebrations, statewide. Celebrate Texas encourages everyone to help with celebrations in their hometown. See their website.
March 2, 2011 - Texas Independence Day Memorial
Service, Texas State Cemetery, Austin, at 9 AM. From IH 35, go East on
7th street to Navasota. Turn left, cemetery main building will be up the block
on your right, at the largest flagpole in East Austin. Memorial service and
musket volley to honor the Great State of Texas, and the Men and Women who made
her so. Keynote Speaker: Judge Bob Perkins (Ret.). This event will be held rain
or shine. Volley participants: Safety check is at 8 AM. Must be at safety
check to participate in volley. Loading will be from cartridges (no horns or
flasks). Bring enough cartridges for 2 sets of 3 volleys. RSVP webmaster@texianlegacy.com. This event is rated 3. This event will be followed by
celebrations at the State Capitol - presentation of the original Texas
Declaration of Independence, Senate Chamber, 11 AM and Rotunda Celebtration at
Noon. If you are not part of the Program, full security measures apply at the
Capitol.
March 5-6, 2011 - "Remembering the Alamo" Weekend at Alamo Plaza in San Antonio, Texas, from 10 AM to 5 PM Saturday, and Noon to 5 PM Sunday. Admission is free. For God and Texas; Dios y Libertad - FREE in Alamo Plaza. This event is a dramatization of the events concening the final two days(March 5 and 6, 1836) of the 13 day Alamo siege by General Santa Anna's Army of Operations, played out in Alamo Plaza. And, a special added vignette, the arrival of the Gonzales Thirty-two. This San Antonio Living History Association-sponsored event welcomes and invites participation from other Texas Revolution reenactors and organizations who wish to register for this event. This San Antonio Living History Association-sponsored event welcomes and invites participation from other Texas Revolution reenactors and organizations who wish to register for this event. For more information and registration forms contact SALHA through their web site; the list of documents is on their calendar. This event is rated 3.
March 5, 2011 - Texas Independence Day Celebration and Parade in Austin, Texas. Scheduled start is 9:30 AM. Sponsored by our friends at Celebrate Texas . More info at their website. TLA Members: Those intending to march with us in the parade or ride the TLA float please RSVP webmaster@texianlegacy.com as there are new parking retrictions at TxDOT. This event is rated 3.
March 6, 2011 - Dawn at the
Alamo Memorial 6:00 AM - 7:00 AM at Alamo Plaza in San
Antonio,Texas. SALHA members, joined by re-enactors from across the U.S.,
represent both armies and pay homage in recognition of the great sacrifices made
on both sides of the Alamo conflict. Thirteen candles are lit to symbolize the
13-day Alamo siege. The fall of the Alamo is remembered with a historical
narrative, readings of eyewitness accounts, a reconciliation peace prayer, in
both English and Spanish, flintlock musket volley salutes, and the placement of
commemorative wreathes complete the solemn event. This free hour-long event
begins during the Alamo battle hour that begins in darkness and ends in early
morning light. Participation with wreaths is welcomed from Alamo descendants,
historical organizations, students and other visitors. This San Antonio Living
History Association-sponsored event welcomes and invites participation from
other Texas Revolution reenactors and organizations who wish to register for
this event. For more information and registration forms contact SALHA through
their web
site; the list of documents is on their calendar. Dutch treat breakfast at the Menger Hotel
follows. This event is rated 3½.
March 6, 2011 - Alamo Defenders Memorial Service, Texas State Capitol grounds, Congress Ave. and 11th Street, Austin. Memorial service and musket volley to honor the defenders of the Alamo. 2PM. Volley participants: Safety check is at 1:30 PM. Must be at safety check to participate in volley. Loading will be from cartridges (no horns or flasks). Bring enough cartridges for 3 shots. RSVP Jim Price. This event is rated 3.
March 25-27, 2011 - The Goliad Massacre at Presidio La Bahía, Goliad, Texas. Annual Goliad Massacre - Fort Defiance Living History Program. A recreation of the occupation of the fort by Col. Fannin and the Goliad Massacre. The only event of its kind in the State of Texas. Saturday, 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. Candlelight Tours 7 P.M. to 9 P. M. Sunday, following the Massacre Reenactment at 10:00 A.M., there will be a memorial service and a pilgrimage to the Fannin Memorial. This event is sponsored by the Presidio La Bahía and the Crossroads of Texas Living History Association. For guidelines for clothing, attendance information, timetable of events, Reënactor/Living Historian information and the most recent info, check out the COTLHA web site www.cotlha.com. If you are not sure about clothing and such, check the end of the COTLHA bylaws which has an appendix with guidelines. . More questions? CONTACTS: Steve Trowbridge , 307 Taos, Victoria, TX 77904 or Dave Vickers , P. O. Box 942, Sinton, TX 78387. Presidio Calendar: http://www.presidiolabahia.org/calendar.htm This event is rated ;3½.
April 2, 2011 - History Faire and Culture Fest sponsored by Tejeda Middle School, San Antonio, Texas. 10am - 4pm. Free admission, and the event will go rain or shine. This event covers from Vikings to WWII, and is a community, family style event that draws quite a crowd. This is a great event to introduce people to "living history". The timeline history reenactment groups and demonstrations will be on History Hill, behind the school. Groups and periods include the Buffalo Soldiers, SCA, Muskets of the Crown, WWII, Texas Rev and many more. A stage will be set up for dance and cultural performance groups. ; Musical groups include Scots, Mexican, and various ethnic groups. ( MS students learn Social Studies as opposed to History ). Student groups will sell handmade items, food and drinks, and run some games. Picnics are welcomed. If anyone knows of any one or group who would be interested in participating please put them get in touch with one of these fine people: Debora Marzec or Randy Guzman for registration. Directions available on the school site. This event is rated 3½.
April 9, 2011 - Runaway Scrape,at
the George Ranch . One and all are
invited to the Annual Runaway Scrape at the George Ranch Saturday, April 11th.
The Scrape will interpret the approach of Santa Anna’s army through the area and
the ensuing panic that it causes. If you want to arrive Friday afternoon to set
up your lodge, that is perfectly fine but preferably after 4 p.m. If you need to
set up earlier, please let me know.
Please email J.R. Thomas if you are able to attend and to get a
registration form (registration by email available this year).
Check In
Time: 9 a.m., Weapons Safety Check at 9:30 a.m.
Reenactments at 11 a.m.
and 3 p.m. with lunch at 12:30 provided by the George Ranch.
Park Closes at 5
p.m.
I look forward to seeing everyone soon.
J.R. Thomas 1830's Site Lead This event is rated 3½.
April 16, 2011 - San Jacinto Battle
Reënactment The events will be at the reflecting pool site with the
large berm so the spectators have "stadium seating". In addition to the Battle
Re-enactment at 3:30 there will be an all day Festival with crafts,
demonstrations, entertainment and food. Living history demonstrations will be at
the Texian Army camp, Mexican Army camp and the Run-a-way (Civilian) camp as
well as at the Festival. Come and spend the day at San Jacinto, where Texas Won
its Independence. Contact Jerry
Tubbs for the battle re-enactment, this is an invitation-only,
pre-registered only event . Safety meetings (especially the 9 AM)
and weapons inspections are mandatory for participation -
ABSOLUTELY NO "WALK-ONS", AND NO "DAY-OF"
REGISTRATIONS. This reenactment includes Hollywood-grade
pyrotechnics.... when the cannons go boom, so does the target. Teachers and
Public: contact Dianne Powell for
the Festival or visit the web site at http://EarlyTexasHistory.com/SanJacinto. Sutlers, food
vendors, and lots to see & do for the public.
Reenactors note: To
All San Jacinto Volunteers:
The San Jacinto invitations and registration
forms are again being sent electronically. The forms can be downloaded at
http://www.sanjacintovolunteers.org/forms/. It is important that you read the
invitation carefully and thoroughly as there is always new information and may
be changes to camp personnel. There are changes, read your preregistration
packet carefully.
When filling out the registration and waiver, you may
leave the date on the waiver blank or you may put the date of April 16. It is
important that they be returned no later than April 4, 2011 to erlindatubbs@gmail.com or send it by
mail to:
Linda Tubbs
10970 Fire Creek Dr
Houston, TX 77043
If you
know of anyone who has changed their e-mail address please let me know. If you
have any other questions, please email me. Thank you very much.
Linda Tubbs
This
event is rated 3½.
April 21, 2011 - Lone Star Moument and Historical Flag Park - Grand Opening in Conroe. 5PM, at I45 and Hwy 105. More info contact Jim Walker. A map is available at TexasFlagPark.org. This event is not yet rated.
If you would like to have your pre-1840 Texas History event listed here, send me all the pertinent information and I'll post it. Be sure to include a TLA Rating and an event contact for further information.
E-mail Information To: webmaster@texianlegacy.com