The Texas Historical Commission (THC) has recognized several individuals and organizations for their contributions to historic preservation in Texas during 2023. The awards celebrate achievements in various categories, highlighting efforts in archeology, education, museum excellence, community heritage development, and more.
The Governor’s Award for Historic Preservation was given to the Texas Society Daughters of the American Revolution (TXDAR). This organization comprises approximately 19,000 women across 198 chapters in Texas and is noted for its extensive projects that promote history and preservation.
Margaret Howard received the Curtis D. Tunnell Lifetime Achievement Award in Archeology. Over nearly four decades, she has made significant contributions to archeology and conservation within Texas. Her work includes establishing a new initiative at the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) in 1994, where she conducted comprehensive surveys of state parks.
Pam Wheat Stranahan was honored with the Ruth Lester Lifetime Achievement Award for her dedication to educating others about Texas history over 44 years. She has been active with several historical societies and authored numerous publications on historical topics.
The John L. Nau, III Award of Excellence in Museums went to the Museum and Visitor Center of the Bastrop County Historical Society (BCHS). Since opening in 2012, it has become a vital community asset by preserving artifacts and drawing visitors to Bastrop's historic downtown.
Janet Gott, mayor of Denison, received the Anice B. Read Award of Excellence in Community Heritage Development for her leadership in historic preservation and revitalization efforts. Elected as Denison's first female mayor in 2018, she has been involved with projects like the renovation of the Eisenhower Birthplace State Historic Site.
Texas Tech University's Southwest Collection/Special Collections Library was awarded for digitizing over 290,000 issues of West Texas newspapers over ten years. This project provides valuable historical perspectives on regional events.
The Bellville Turnverein Pavilion restoration project earned recognition for its sensitive integration of modern technology while maintaining its historical architecture. The project added air conditioning without altering the building's character-defining features.
TexasTejano.com and KSAT 12’s "Tejano Moments" series received accolades for media achievement by producing educational video segments about historically significant Tejano stories.
Bob Ward from Travis County was awarded for his leadership role as chair of the Travis County Historical Commission. He is actively involved with multiple historical organizations throughout Austin.
Harold A. Odom Jr.'s volunteer work at the Odom Homestead Preservation site earned him recognition as Outstanding Volunteer of the Year. His efforts have focused on restoring buildings to their mid-20th-century appearance.
These awards will be presented at THC’s Real Places 2024 conference scheduled from April 3–5 in Austin and online. This event brings together diverse audiences interested in history, heritage tourism, and preservation through sessions, workshops, tours, entertainment activities, and networking opportunities.
