Washington County Historical Commission, Texas

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Washington County Historical Commission, Texas This allows us to connect with the past and learn from our history.

The Washington County Historical Commission strives to preserve the historical heritage of Washington County, Texas for the benefit of present and future generations.

TEXAS HISTORY MONTHLY: The Spark of Revolution (October 1835)Did you know that long before 59 delegates gathered on the ...
10/09/2026

TEXAS HISTORY MONTHLY: The Spark of Revolution (October 1835)

Did you know that long before 59 delegates gathered on the banks of the Brazos River, the fight for Texas independence ignited in the crisp autumn days of October 1835?
• October 2, 1835: The Revolution begins! Settlers in Gonzales refuse to surrender their small bronze cannon, unfurling the legendary "Come and Take It" banner.
• October 9–10, 1835: Texian volunteers seize Presidio La Bahía in Goliad, cutting off vital supply routes.
• Mid-October 1835: Stephen F. Austin takes command of the volunteer "Army of the People" as colonists march toward San Antonio.

Meanwhile, right here in Washington County, settlers along the Brazos River ferry crossing were already laying the groundwork for our county's defining moment. Local boosters offered a brand-new meeting hall to host the upcoming convention, setting the stage for Washington-on-the-Brazos to become the Birthplace of Texas the following March!

Experience the history in person:
October is official Texas Archeology Month! It's a wonderful time of year to explore our local historical gems:
-Walk the historic grounds at Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site.
-Step back in time at the Chappell Hill Historical Society Museum, housed in the historic 1927 school building.
-Explore local rail and community heritage at the Brenham Heritage Museum.
-Stay Connected with Local History: Our county's rich heritage is preserved through a wonderful network of dedicated organizations. We invite you to follow the individual members of the Washington County History Alliance on social media through their links on our Washington County Historical Commission website! It is the best way to stay up-to-date on their latest exhibits, upcoming fall events, and specialized preservation projects.

Questions for our followers:
-Did you have an ancestor who participated in the Texas Revolution?
-What is your favorite historic spot to visit in Washington County during the fall? Let us know in the comments below!

On Tuesday, September 29, 2026, Jan Kelm was approved for membership to the Washington County Historical Commission by t...
10/01/2026

On Tuesday, September 29, 2026, Jan Kelm was approved for membership to the Washington County Historical Commission by the Washington County Commissioners Court. She was introduced by WCHC Chairman, Sharlie Douglass. We welcome her extensive expertise in Washington County history!

HISTORIC OCTOBER: From Cannon Fire to Constitution!Did you know that October marks two of the most critical milestones i...
09/25/2026

HISTORIC OCTOBER: From Cannon Fire to Constitution!

Did you know that October marks two of the most critical milestones in the birth of the Texas Republic? It's a journey that goes straight from the battlefield to the birthplace of Texas right here in Washington County.

October 2, 1835 – The Spark at GonzalesWhen Mexican authorities tried to reclaim a loaned defense cannon, the settlers of Gonzales drew a line in the sand. Flying a homemade linen flag featuring a lone star and the defiant words "Come and Take It," they fired a single shot that officially launched the Texas Revolution.

The Washington County BridgeThe bravery at Gonzales set the wheels in motion, but a revolution needs a legal foundation. Just months later, delegates gathered right here at Washington-on-the-Brazos to bravely sign the Declaration of Independence and draft the republic's first constitution.

October 3, 1836 – Organizing the NationExactly one year after the war began, the work of nation-building became real. On October 3, 1836, the First Congress of the Republic of Texas officially assembled in Columbia to establish the Supreme Court, secure public lands, and formally inaugurate Sam Houston as President later that month.

From the very first shot to the first stroke of a lawmaker's pen, Texas history was forged in autumn—and Washington County sat right at the heart of the story!

UPCOMING MEETING: Washington County Historical Commission, September 9, 2026 at the Washington County Courthouse Annex, ...
09/03/2026

UPCOMING MEETING: Washington County Historical Commission, September 9, 2026 at the Washington County Courthouse Annex, Brenham @ 2 PM
Here is a sneak peek at what’s on the agenda:
• Previewing our upcoming Thomas Jefferson Program happening on September 22 at the Chappell Hill Historical Society Museum.
• Looking back at a fantastic summer with a full review of our "Gone To Texas" summer history camp!
• Historical Articles: Hear about our upcoming historical features in the banner Press.
• History in the Classroom: An update on bringing local history alive for our students.
• Undertold Stories: Tracking new research into the diverse and hidden histories of our community.
• First Citizens Sites Project: Ongoing archaelogical work and historical finds at multiple sites.
• Plus important updates on local cemeteries, historical markers, and the Washington County History Alliance!

Whether you are a lifelong resident, a history buff, or just want to learn more about
how we protect our local heritage, we would love to see you there!

TEXAS HISTORY MONTHLY: The Oldest County Fair in Texas!Did you know that Washington County is home to a legendary Texas ...
08/30/2026

TEXAS HISTORY MONTHLY: The Oldest County Fair in Texas!

Did you know that Washington County is home to a legendary Texas tradition? Founded right here, the Washington County Fair holds the proud title of the Oldest County Fair in Texas.

This year, the historic fair officially returns from September 11 to September 19, 2026. From livestock shows supporting our local youth to the thrilling rodeo, carnival, and live Texas music, this event is living history in action. Don't miss the beloved Annual Trail Ride and Fair Parade in Downtown Brenham!

Our deep agricultural roots have been bringing communities together for generations. If you want to take a step back in time and see how this incredible tradition evolved through rare photographs and artifacts, be sure to check out the special temporary exhibit, "Washington County Fair: A Texas Tradition," running from August 12 to September 19 at the Brenham Heritage Museum.

Head over to the official Washington County Fair page to see current schedules and project updates: https://www.facebook.com/washingtoncofair/

What is your favorite memory from the Washington County Fair? Share your stories and vintage photos below!

TEXAS HISTORY MONTHLY: Texas and the American RevolutionLong before Washington-on-the-Brazos became the cradle of the Re...
08/17/2026

TEXAS HISTORY MONTHLY: Texas and the American Revolution

Long before Washington-on-the-Brazos became the cradle of the Republic, our region was deeply intertwined with global history. This August, we are looking back at how Spain and Texas played a hidden but decisive role in the American Revolutionary War.Under the strategic leadership of Bernardo de Gálvez, Spanish resources and frontier efforts along the Gulf Coast directly shaped the birth of a new nation. During the war, Spanish Texas served as a vital supply line, sending thousands of head of Texas cattle to feed Gálvez’s forces fighting British troops. Local Tejano vaqueros drove these massive herds along treacherous trails from San Antonio and Goliad all the way to Louisiana. Furthermore, citizens across the Texas frontier contributed mandatory financial donations, known as donativos, to directly fund General George Washington's continental campaigns. This means early Texas ranchers and frontiersmen actively sustained the very forces fighting for American independence.This incredible history is currently being highlighted across the state as part of the Texas America250 initiative.

Did you know Texas played a role in 1776? Let us know in the comments!

Yesterday at The Barnhill Center, in celebrating of America 250, the principles of liberty truly came alive!Brad Nies (p...
07/06/2026

Yesterday at The Barnhill Center, in celebrating of America 250, the principles of liberty truly came alive!

Brad Nies (pictured in costume) gave a captivating performance portraying Thomas Jefferson, taking us right back to the summer of 1776 and the drafting of the Declaration of Independence.

Dr. Ken Howell, Professor of History and Head of the History Department at Blinn College (also pictured) hosted a fantastic, engaging Q&A session that dove deeper into the history and enduring principles of liberty.

Thank you to Brad Nies, Dr. Howell, the Barnhill Center, and our wonderful community for making yesterday so special!

Let’s finish off this celebratory weekend together!The Washington County Historical Commission invites you to close out ...
07/04/2026

Let’s finish off this celebratory weekend together!
The Washington County Historical Commission invites you to close out your holiday weekend with a free living-history event tomorrow at 3:00 PM. Come watch the story of our nation's birth through the eyes of Thomas Jefferson at The Barnhill Center.It is the perfect, relaxing way to end a historic weekend with family and friends. See you tomorrow!

Tomorrow, our nation celebrates a historic milestone, America's 250th Birthday!While we often think of the American Revo...
07/03/2026

Tomorrow, our nation celebrates a historic milestone, America's 250th Birthday!

While we often think of the American Revolution as a story confined to the East Coast, the spirit of 1776 actually marched right into the heart of Texas. Here in Washington County, we are uniquely tied to the birth of the United States through the veteran patriots who came to settle our lands.

The Washington County Historical Commission has highlighted the incredible journeys of men like William Gates and James Walker, soldiers of the American Revolution who brought their families to Stephen F. Austin’s "Old Three Hundred" colony in the 1820s. But the story didn't end with them. When the Texas Revolution erupted in 1836, the sons of these original patriots picked up their fathers' mantle:

William Gates' son Samuel served as a colonial militia captain, while his brother Amos put his scouting skills to work as a military spy for William B. Travis.

James Walker's sons, John and James Jr., marched straight into the fight, standing on the front lines and charging the field under Sam Houston at the decisive Battle of San Jacinto.

These extraordinary families fought to build one republic in 1776, and stood on the front lines to win another right here in Texas in 1836. Tomorrow, as you fire up the grill, attend parades, enjoy Stars Over Washington County celebrations, watch fireworks, and gather with family, take a moment to look at our rolling hills and remember: the very foundation of Washington County was built by the hands, and defended by the blood, of America's original freedom fighters. Stand proud, Washington County! Happy America 250 Eve!

Ready for the ultimate evening celebration of our nation's 250th birthday? The centerpiece event of the summer is happen...
07/01/2026

Ready for the ultimate evening celebration of our nation's 250th birthday? The centerpiece event of the summer is happening right here in Brenham at the Washington County Expo!

Pack your lawnchairs, grab your blankets, and get ready for a spectacular night of music, community, and fireworks. Admission and parking are free.

Washington County Expo: 1305 E. Bluebell Road, Brenham
Saturday, July 4th - Gates open at 6:00pm
Evening Lineup:

6:00pm - Gates open with local food trucks, vendors, and patriotic presentations
8:00pm - Live concert featuring ESCAPE - A Tribute to Journey!
9:20pm - A massive, spectacular INDEPENDENCE DAY FIREWORKS SHOW!

Let's fill the stands and celebrate 250 years of freedom together!

(event rules: no outside food, personal fireworks, sparklers, drones, or cooking devices are allowed inside the Expo gates. Brenham High School will also be open for fireworks viewing)

Address

PO Box 297
Chappell Hill, TX
77426

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