THC Historic Sites Free Day

AUSTIN- The Texas Historical Commission’s (THC) annual Historic Sites Day will offer FREE admission to all 20 state historic sites on Sunday, May 13. THC is the state agency for historic preservation. THC staff consults with citizens and organizations to preserve Texas’ architectural, archaeological and cultural landmarks. The agency is recognized nationally for its preservation programs.

The Texas State Legislature established the agency in 1953 as the Texas State Historical Survey Committee with the task to identify important historic sites across the state. The Texas Legislature changed the agency’s name to the Texas Historical Commission in 1973. Along with the name change came more protective powers, an expanded leadership role and broader educational responsibilities.

Preservation Month, sponsored by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, encourages community members to celebrate and become involved in local preservation projects and historic sites. This year’s theme is “Discover America’s Hidden Gems.” Celebrate your local history and visit a state historic site for free. Many sites completed major restoration projects over the past year and recently reopened to the public. From military strongholds to house museums, plantations, and Native American settlements, these historic sites offer visitors the opportunity to truly experience the real places of Texas and the stories they preserve. See below for the list of participating sites.

For more information, please call 512.463.7953 or visit texashistoricsites.com.