Events
for 2006-2007
Events
for 2006-2007 Sept 9, 2006 -
Living History Open House Cos House and Patio, La Villita, San Antonio, TX. The San Antonio Living History Association will host a free community open house at the Cos House and patio area in La Villita, San Antonio's designated historical arts center. Working in collaboration with La Villita Tenants Association and the City Parks & Recreation Dept., everyone interested in different eras of San Antonio and Texas history is cordially invited to attend and enjoy this relaxing open event. SALHA is seeking to engage new members, volunteers, and associates who are interested in our city's diverse culture and rich heritage. All area members of heritage and cultural groups are welcome.
Living history interpretation is an educational art form that incorporates many arts types including theater, music, dance, period fashions, and storytelling.
The San Antonio Living History Association is a educational 501(c)(3)non-profit organization. Our goal is to promote greater understanding of San Antonio's multi-cultured heritage using the skills and art of living history interpretation in local schools and historic sites. Our purpose is to educate, engage, and entertain audiences, while expanding their historical and cultural horizons.
Interested support (non-reenactor) members, as well as new living history interpreters, will be given an information packet and an organizational program describing how to become actively involved and enjoy this educational and entertaining hobby. SALHA members will be presenting some of their historical clothing, skills, and interactive demonstrations for Cos House visitors between 1:00 and 5:00PM.
In addition, an illustrated brochure titled "A Walking Tour of La Villita", describing the interpretive markers located at each restored building, will be given to La Villita visitors at the open house. These interesting brochure describes the interpretive building markers that relate the history and evolution of San Antonio's "little village" from Spanish Colonial times through its restoration in 1939 which preserved that colorful part of our city's history.
The Cos House is on Villita Street, next to the entrance to the Arneson River Theater. Bring your love of San Antonio history and enthusiasm to this landmark site.
Refreshments will be served. For more information, contact Ronnie Kelly (210) 240-3002 or Bob Benavides (210) 273-1730 or email SALHA at sanantoniolivinghistory@yahoo.com.
This event is rated 1.
Sept 16, 2006 - Texian Navy Day Saturday, September 16, 2006, is Texian Navy Day, honoring 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 shined 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.
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONTACT:
J. Richard Reese, KSJ, President General, The Sons of the Republic of Texas 713 871-0634
David Hanover Texas Navy Committee Chairman, The Sons of the Republic of Texas 903 509-2206This event is not rated.
Sept 15-16, 2006 - Texas Heroes Day - The Legend Lives Friday and Saturday, September 15th and 16th, 2006 the annual Texas Heroes Day - The Legend Lives Event will take place at the Texas Parks and Wildlife's Monument Hill 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 will feature a dramatic, historically accurate, re-enactment of the 1848 Masonic Order reburial of the remains of soldiers who lost their lives in the Dawson Massacre and Meir Expedition. Local school bands as well as the Park's Dulcimer Ensemble will perform. 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
Historical information about the Dawson Massacre and/or the Mier Expedition see the Handbook of Texas online at www.tsha.utex.edu/handbook/online/
October 6-8, 2006 - "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.
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. This event is rated 3.
October 7, 2006 - Living History Fair, sponsored by the Brazos Valley Museum of Natural History. This is expected to be the first -annual- "Texas Living History" fair for the museum; it will focus on Texas in the 1830's. From the museum: "While the museum's focus is primarily natural history, we are one of very few museums in the area and do quite a bit with cultural history as well. This is our first try at a living history fair, but there are quite a few dedicated volunteers that are very excited about the idea. The date for the fair is October 7th and will run from 11 am till 4 pm that day. We have already solicited several character actors, have plans for a wild edibles buffet, native materials basket makers, and plenty of hands on activities for the kids. We are pretty open to any suggestions for activities or characters that your group could offer. We would also like to invite your volunteers to participate if able.
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."
Setup should be completed by 9:30 AM and takedown to start about 5 PM (and word is that they are "very flexible" on this). Cartridge blank shooting will be allowed (standard safety rules apply); coordinate with Graham Criglow on firing schedule.
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 Heather Prestridge or Graham Criglow.
This event is rated 2.5 as this is their first one; higher rated attire/personae VERY welcome.
October 7, 2006 - Texas - U.S. Boundary Marker Dedication The Sons of the Republic of Texas (SRT) will dedicate a Texas historical marker on Saturday, October 7, 2006, 2 PM, at the site of the only known international boundary marker between the Republic of Texas and the United States. The boundary marker, set into the ground on April 23, 1841, marks the officially recognized boundary between the Republic of Texas and the United States. Located on TX Farm Road 31 and LA State Hwy. 765 between Deadwood, Texas, and Logansport, Louisiana, the boundary marker sets on the line of adjacent tracts of land owned by the Texas Historical Foundation and the DeSoto Parish Historical Society. The Panola County Historical Commission worked with those entities and the Texas Historical Commission for approval of the historical marker.
Ron Stone, Professor of Texas History at Houston Baptist University and a former television news anchorman from Houston, will serve as emcee. Stone is also an honorary member of The Sons of the Republic of Texas and a Knight of the Order of San Jacinto, the highest honor that the organization bestows upon an individual for outstanding service in the cause of Texas heritage. Mr. Raymond Powell, president of the DeSoto Parish Historical Society, will speak about the history of the boundary marker and preservation of the historic site. The SRT will recognize historians from Panola County, Texas, and DeSoto Parish, Louisiana, for their work in obtaining recognition for this historic site. The event is expected to draw attendance by historical and heritage societies from both states, as well as individuals interested in Texas and U.S. history.
Texas Historical Commission member Bob Bowman of Lufkin, author of 30 books about East Texas, provided the following excerpts about the international boundary marker:
"The marker established the boundary between Texas and Louisiana, but there was a time when the border underwent contests between France, Spain, the U.S. and the Republic of Texas. Before there was a Texas, both France and Spain claimed the region on both sides of the Sabine River--an area known as the "neutral ground" or "no man's land" because of early explorations by both nations. French explorers claimed all land drained by the Mississippi River and its tributaries as Louisiana Territory. Spain claimed all southern lands beginning with the first watershed west of the Mississippi. The dispute arose over claims that the "first watershed" was the Sabine or the Atchafalaya River. As a result the land between the two rivers was claimed by both nations. When the U.S. purchased the Louisiana territory in 1803 and inherited France's claims, the U.S. and Spain agreed that the disputed strip would be neutral territory until an agreement could be reached by the two nations.
The strip soon became a refuge for outlaws and deserters seeking to avoid the laws of any government, leading to the violent Regulator-Moderator War in Shelby and surrounding counties. The boundary was further confused in 1819 when the U.S. purchased Florida from Spain and a new, tentative agreement established the Sabine as the international boundary. Texas, at the time, was still Spanish territory, but became a part of Mexico when Mexico won its independence from Spain. When the Republic of Texas was born in 1836, it became a matter of urgency to mark the actual boundary between the Republic and the U.S. A joint commission was established in 1838 to survey and map the land along the boundary.
W.J. Stone, a young engineer, was commissioned by President Martin Van Buren to perform the task "with all speed and accuracy." The work was scheduled for completion in 1840, but wasn't actually finished until 1841. The western bank of the Sabine was mapped and marked as the boundary from its mouth to the 32nd parallel, just north of Logan's Ferry (today's Logansport). To establish the line, a granite shaft was driven into the ground near the river. Three miles north, a second shaft was set. Each mile between the two shafts was marked by an earthen mound containing bottled information and a wooden mileage pole. With the passage of time and a crumbling river bank, the shaft on the Sabine was lost.
The remaining marker on Farm Road 31 was damaged in the l920s by loggers, but was repaired and still stands about 50 yards off the highway between Deadwood and Logansport. The landmark carries three simple inscriptions. On the south side are the words, "Merid. Boundary Established 1840." On the east side, it reads: "U.S." and on the west side are the letters, "R.T." for Republic of Texas. An illegal trophy collector tried to dig up the marker in the 1970s, but gave up when he discovered it had a concrete foundation of ten to fourteen feet. Apparently, someone in the past wanted to make darned sure the marker wasn't going anywhere."
To reach the marker site from central and northern Panola County, Texas, drive two miles south of Carthage on U.S. Highway 59 S to TX Farm Road 2517, travel east on Farm Road 2517 approximately 10 miles to TX Farm Road 31, and follow Farm Road 31 to the southeast about nine miles to the Texas/Louisiana state line. Or, from U. S. Highway 84 in Logansport, Louisiana, drive north on Louisiana State Highway 764 for about three miles to the intersection with Louisiana State Highway 765, and follow Hwy. 765 northwest about two miles to the Louisiana/Texas state line. The roadside area is on the north side of the highway.
Contact: The Sons of the Republic of Texas www.srttexas.org
Billy Johnson, Past President General 936 275-9988
David Hanover, Secretary General 903 509-2206
This event is not rated.
October 14, 2006 - Fall at the Alamo, sponsored by the DRT - Place: On the grounds of the Alamo - Time: TBA... (Usually 9AM to 5PM) This theme for this year's event is Texas Annexation..
Please click here for background information for this year's theme.
The Alamo welcomes your participation. Not all participants are required to participate in the living history portion of the event. As in the past, areas will be designated for historic crafts, dancing, demonstrations, music and story telling.
Please contact Ernesto Rodriguez at erodriguez@thealamo.org or 210-225-1391 ext 28, if you or your group would like to attend this year's Fall at the Alamo. This event is rated 3½ .
October 26-27, 2007 - Texian Market Days, at the George Ranch just south of Richmond, Texas . It has grown into a favorite fall tradition. For 24 years, Texans (long-time residents, new neighbors and "temporary" Texans) have gathered at the Fort Bend Museum Association's Texian Market Days to enjoy a living view of Texas' past. On October 26 and 27, 2007 folks will gather again at the George Ranch Historical Park to celebrate Texian Market Days.
TMD is a two-day event for 2007, but the days are Friday and Saturday. We are hopeful that re-enactment groups will be so excited about the prospect of Sunday being an at-your-own-pace breakdown day (or even a tactical/meeting day) that they might be willing to recruit more for Friday’s school day. The event is aiming to get more people, more excitement over those two days. We hope to see 2500 school kids or so, if we can manage them with program turnout. Then Saturday’s traffic should be heavier (we hope) and Sunday will be lazy, no-public. Still will have a Saturday night volunteer dinner. Still provide food for volunteers at all sites, though we are really looking hard at a near-site hospitality area for re-enactors. It will be a private, step-out-of-the-limelight area with food/snacks and drinks.
This year, the festival will include 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. Texian Market Days is a fund-raising event supporting the educational programs of the Fort Bend Museum Association, including the George Ranch Historical Park and the Fort Bend Museum.
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. SAVE MONEY! Buy tickets by October 20 and save 20%. Adult admission is just $8 per person and $4 per child if purchased by October 20. They'll be available online by September 1, 2007.
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 Bryan McAuley or call him at 281-343-0218 x 278.
For information about setting up a food booth, please email Donna Hoover or call her at 281-343-0218 x 258.
For information about joining us as a sponsor of Texian Market Days, please email Candy Jones or call her at 281-342-1256. This event is rated 3.
October 27-29, 2006 - 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 Tenth 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.
October 28, 2006 - "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.
October 29, 2006 - "Juan N. Seguin Memorial Celebration" You, your Family and Friends are invited to attend the 200th Anniversary of the birth of Juan N. Seguin . When: Sun. October 29, 2006 @ 1:00 p.m. Where: Guadalupe County Coliseum - Seguin, Texas. Keynote Speaker: Henry Cisneros, former San Antonio Mayor, former U.S. Secretary of H.U.D. Tell your family, friends and neighbors! Please RSVP by e-mail: aseguin2@aol.com. Open to the public - no admission chargeThis event is rated 1.
November 3-5, 2006 - San Felipe Campout, San Felipe. This is a Texas Army event. From 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 4, 2006 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). A BIG invitation goes out to all Texas Colonization/Revolution re-enactors (1820s, 1830s) - Texians, Mexicans, Native Americans - and settler life skills demonstrators to help bring this event together, as we are planning to include a Texas Revolution skirmish. The event is free and open to the public from 10-4 and averages 2,500-4000 visitors. Plan on staying for an "open for participants in period dress only" outdoor barn dance in the homestead's corral, featuring live period music and a dance caller. The dance is scheduled to start around 7 p.m.
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. Pre-registration is required.
Contact Anita Howlett at 281.446.8588 or email ahowlett@hcp4.net For more information on the park, it's programs and people please visit: www.cp4.hctx.net/jones or call us at 281.446.8588 --Anita and Mike Howlett This event is rated 3½.
December 9, 2006 - 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. This event is rated 3.
December 8-9, 115-16, 22-23, 2006 - 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. 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.
January 20, 2007 - Pilgrim's Camp and Swap Meet.This will be our 6th. This year we will be at the George Ranch just south of Richmond, Texas. We will be camped by the log cabin. Folks, I regret to inform you that due to the weather, Pilgrim's Camp will be rescheduled for February 24/25, still at George Ranch. Jerry and Charlie have expressed their regrets on the inconvenience and short notice, but the weather is the weather... Please let everyone know who intended to attend, and we all hope that everyone can make the rescheduled event. -- 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 the 19th. Meetings will be held to discuss 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, 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.
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.
Change for 2007: This year, the intent is to have only one speaker, to allow more time for the swap meet and for new / interested people to ask those "one - on - one" questions. 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 (telephone 512-264-2355).The ranch has started a new policy of being closed on Sunday and Monday. This means we will not have to wait until the late afternoon on Sunday to break camp. You may pack up as you see fit. The ranch does ask that on Saturday we talk to the public about who we are and why we are there. Maybe we will pick up a few new recruits in the process.
A $10 camp fee will be charged for wood & we will have real bathrooms (which also means water will be available). For more details (and a map link) click here. This event is rated 1.
Latest from Jerry Tubbs, 2/19/07: George, Please put the word out that Hwy 99 So. (Crabb River Rd) at Hwy 59 is closed!!! Folks will have to travel south on 59 to the first exit, "U" turn and come back to Crabb River Rd. Be ready for delays!!
Jerry
February 17, 2007 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 Anita Howlett at 281.446.8588 or email ahowlett@hcp4.net For more information on the park, it's programs and people please visit: www.cp4.hctx.net/jones or call us at 281.446.8588 --Anita and Mike Howlett This event is rated 3½.
February 16-18, 2007 6th Annual ROT Frolic It's time again for the 6th Annual ROT Frolic to be held at Henkel Square in Round Top. This year we're doing February of 1846 and we'll be recreating the transfer ceremony that originally took place on the steps of the capitol in Austin. Speeches will be read, cannons will fire a salute (hopefully!) and flags (and glasses) will be raised! We will have a dinner on the grounds weather permitting and as always we'll have a grog shop on hand for evening entertainment.
This is a psuedo juried/invitational only event (no walk ins allowed) but if you're interested I encourage you to contact me and we can discuss the event in detail. If you've attended before you're good to go now. I have the registration packet finalized already and can send it out as needed. Hope to hear from you and hopefully we'll see you at Roundtop! We're open to encouraging folks to become more progressive in the hobby and this is a really great progressive/authentic event to experience as there are no others like it out there!
Sincerely,
Scott McMahon (aka. Lt. McBarron)
979 218-7752 mobile
This event is rated 4.
February 24, 2007 - Glory at the Alamo at Alamo Plaza in San Antonio, Texas, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Admission is free. Living history reënactments portray the beginning of the 13-day Alamo siege including a scene from a Fandango; 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. "Glory At The Alamo" programs also feature living history interactive demonstrations, period music, dance, food and novelty booths, historical crafts, old-time photographs, a sutler store and family fun for all. Also hosted is "This Hallowed Ground - Alamo Plaza", a historical walking tour of Alamo Plaza that is presented in collaboration with the William Barret Travis Chapter of the Sons of the Republic of Texas. 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 3½ .
March 2, 2007 - Texas Independence Day Memorial Service, Texas State Cemetery, Austin. 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: to be announced. At noon, the celebrations and ceremonies at the State Capitol will begin, downtown at Congress Ave. and 11th Street. (pre-celebration festivities start at 11:30 AM.) 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 6 shots, we will do 2 volleys. RSVP webmaster@texianlegacy.com. This event is rated 3.
March 3, 2007 - Texas Independence Day Celebration and Parade in Austin, Texas. Scheduled start is 11 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 our Director. This event is rated 3.
March 2-4, 2007 - Texas Independence Day Festivities at Washington-On-The-Brazos, Texas. For an invitation to participate, contact Tom Scaggs. Tom can be reached at 936-878-2214 ext. 224. Mail is Tom Scaggs - Complex Manager, Washington on the Brazos State Historic Site, P.O. Box 305, Washington, TX 77880. Email is at wilburt.scaggs@tpwd.state.tx.us . This event is rated 3.
March 2-4, 2007 - Texas Independence Day Celebrations, statewide. Celebrate Texas encourages everyone to help with celebrations in their hometown. See their website.
March 3-4, 2007 - "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. Features educational programs, demonstrations and re-enactments interpreting the men, women, and children of both sides of the Alamo battle. From historical music and dance, food preparation, corn grinding, spinning and weaving to demonstrations of the types of arms and tactics used by both sides with military accoutrements and 1836 period fashions. "Santa Anna's Council of War" and "For God and Texas! ¡Dios y Libertad!" are the main re-enactments that convey the story of the Alamo conflict. A Sutler store, Alamo certificates signed by students with quill pens, cornhusk doll making, and a kids marching drill are also featured. 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.
March 4, 2007 - 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. 2 PM. 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 6, 2007 - 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 contact SALHA through their web site. Dutch treat breakfast at the Menger Hotel follows. This event is rated 3½.
March 24-25, 2007 - "The Goliad Massacre" at Presidio La Bahía, Goliad, Texas. 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. Last year Phillip De La Pena and Ector Aguilar got together a Company of Greys/US Militia for this event. Anyone that might be interested in being part of that company please contact him via email at phildlp0212@yahoo.com as soon as possible so he might get a count and possibly schedule a get together before the event for those interested. Scott McMahon also sends this: " Phillip de la Pena, Bill Scott and myself are organizing a group of progressive minded individuals to portray the Lafayette Battalion at Goliad this coming year. Phil will be heading up the San Antonio Greys, Bill is heading up the (Alabama) Red Rovers and I'm heading up the Kentucky Mustangs. We all three have guidelines for interested parties so pass the word if you know of anyone looking to do this impression. Scott McMahon" This event is rated 3½.
March 31, 2007 - 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.
March 31 - April 1, 2007 - Ladies' 19th Century Conference at Ft. Martin Scott, Fredericksburg. Time is here for the 19th Century Ladies' Conference. This year's theme is 19th C. embellishments and there is a great schedule of workshops set for you along with an exhibit. - A slide presentation on Early American Decoration - Instruction on Dorset Buttons - A slide presentation on slippers of the 19th C - Instruction on 19C beaded bracelets - Creating embroidery anglaise on a period correct hanki. Reservations are required and sign-up deadline is March 15th. For details email Deborah Russell at russhill@ktc.com. This event is rated 3½.
April 7-8, 2007 - Runaway Scrape and Engagement at Thompson's Ferry, The Scrape has been cancelled.
April 21, 2007 - 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 event. Safety meetings and weapons inspections are mandatory for participation - NO "walk-ons". 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 Please Note: Because of the ceremony being held at the monument at 10:00 A.M. on Saturday April 21st, there has been a time change for the mandatory safety meeting. The meeting that was scheduled for 9:00 A.M. will now be held at 8:30 A.M. For those of you who plan to attend and or participate in the ceremony, the safety meeting should be over and done in enough time to allow you to get to the monument. If you know of anyone else that this affects, please let them know of the change. Jerry Tubbs is notifying everyone on his E-mail list, and I have done the same (as have I....Webmaster). Every chance you get, put in a word to the Almighty for good weather. See you there….RDonahoo This event is rated 3½.
April 16 - May 4, 2007 - Sterling Bank San Jacinto Exhibit Artifacts from 1836 to 1845 to be on display for the first time in Houston at Sterling Bank's 6th Annual Republic of Texas Exhibition -
A project of Sterling Bank's Lex Johnston Republic of Texas Collection
On an April afternoon in 1836, Mexican General Antonio López de Santa Anna was startled by gunshots from the charging Texas Army near Harrisburg at the place where the San Jacinto River merges with Buffalo Bayou . In minutes the battle was over, and in its wake Texas became an independent republic. Santa Anna and his personal items, including his swallowtail headquarters flag, his ornate silver riding spurs, and his writing desk appointments came under the control of his captors.
Beginning April 16, many of these captured artifacts, including the flag, spurs, and desk appointments, will be among the historical treasures on display April 16 - May 4, 2007, at Sterling Bank's Memorial Banking Center, 840 Gessner, in Houston.
Rarely seen by the public and never before exhibited in Houston, the swallowtail flag's restoration was partially funded through a grant from Sterling Bank. The exhibition will be FREE and open to the public during banking hours: Monday-Thursday, 9am-4pm, and Friday, 9am-5pm.
Set amid MetroNational's Three-Memorial City Texas-themed plaza and its Yellow Rose Garden, the Sterling Bank exhibit of over two dozen items is drawn from the Lex Johnston Republic of Texas Collection, the Dallas Historical Society, and Texas Numismatic Association members.
Highlights of the exhibition include:
June 9, 2007 - Fort Anahuac - 175th Anniversary The Chambers County Historical Commission is planning a re-enactment of the confrontation of Fort Anahuac of June 1832. This will be the 175th anniversary commemoration. We will start this Saturday shebang off with a parade at 9:00 am and festivities begin at 10:00 at the fort site. We appreciate participants sending us an RSVP as soon as practical, as this helps immensely in planning and getting specific information back to you.
Anahuac, located about 60 miles east of Houston, just off I-10, is known as the "Cradle of Texas Independence". Of course, this 1832 battle and the famed Turtle Bayou Resolutions set the stage for, and fanned the flames for, the revolution.
If you have, or your group has, an interest of walking the same ground that William Barrett Travis walked, give me a shout.
We will start the whole shebang off with a parade at 9:00 am and festivities begin at 10:00 at the fort site. Like to have you in both.
Thanks,
Bob Wheat, Chairman, Chambers Co. Historical Comm.
(409)267-6599
e-mail oldduster@aol.com,
mail: CCHC PO Box 206, Anahuac, Tx 77514 This event is rated 3½.
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.
Other calendars online
Washington-on-the-Brazos site calendar
Brazoria County Historical Museum calendar
Presidio La Bahia calendar
San Antonio Living History Assn calendar
Jesse H Jones Park events and programs
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