Wednesday, May 5, 2021 - 4:46pm
By William Polley, Levi Jordan Plantation State Historic Site Educator
Since Texas’ colonization, people of African descent have been contributing to the state and its history. With their arrival in Texas as early as 1528, African Americans—whether enslaved or free—were instrumental in settling Spanish Texas.
When Texas was part of New Spain, enslaved African...
Tuesday, March 2, 2021 - 12:10pm
It was called “Tejas,” an enormous Mexican territory—far from civilization. Soon, an epic story would be written across this terrain. Battles would be fought and legends would be born. Unspeakable tragedy—and a final, shocking victory.
The Texas Historical Commission hosted "The Birthplace of the Republic of Texas," a digital history webinar on March 2, 2021. Judge Ken Wise,...
Tuesday, December 8, 2020 - 9:47am
Searching for the perfect gift that supports the Texas Historical Commission’s programs? We are pleased to share our holiday gift guide to inspire ideas for fans of history and heritage travel.
Our state historic sites’ museum stores offer products that will make this Christmas more magical. See full...
Friday, April 29, 2016 - 8:00am
By Angela Pfeiffer, Varner-Hogg Plantation State Historic Site
In honor of spring flowers, this month’s artifact is a set of toilet or cologne bottles once owned by Sam Houston. Donated to Varner-Hogg Plantation State Historic Site by Gen. Houston’s descendants, these two white glass bottles are painted with flowers that surround the gilt...
Wednesday, March 9, 2016 - 12:10pm
By Angela Pfeiffer, Varner-Hogg Plantation Curator
Manufactured in Paris, France, by Jean Batiste Dubuc, this mantle clock was produced between 1806 and 1817 as part of a wave of memorabilia memorializing George Washington after his death in 1799. Covered in a type of gilt bronze known as “ormolu,” the clock rests on a rectangular base with bun feet, and is decorated with a centrally...
Friday, January 30, 2015 - 12:47pm
By Amanda McVay, Varner-Hogg Plantation Educator
Last month, Varner-Hogg Plantation State Historic Site’s pathways were illuminated by twinkling lights and glowing candles as we welcomed visitors to the site for an evening celebration of the season.
In the charmingly decorated barn, guests were entertained by music as they nibbled on delicious cookies and sipped our...
Friday, November 21, 2014 - 8:00am
By Amanda McVay, Varner-Hogg Plantation Educator
Ever wonder what it was like during harvest season on a 1800s plantation? Visitors at this year’s Varner-Hogg Plantation Harvest Festival know now! Sugar cane tasting, storytelling, crafts, traditional hayrides, and more made for a fantastic night of education and celebration at the historic site.
A festive atmosphere...
Friday, June 6, 2014 - 9:52am
By Amanda McVay, Varner-Hogg Plantation Educator
In April, Varner-Hogg Plantation State Historic Site celebrated the 18-minute battle that won Texas its independence from Mexico in 1836, known today as San Jacinto Day. The day got off to a good start with beautiful spring weather, which set the stage for our festivities. Prior to the event, the Varner-Hogg Plantation Friends...
Monday, December 9, 2013 - 1:12pm
By Amanda McVay, Varner-Hogg Plantation Educator
Visitors recently celebrated the season at Varner-Hogg Plantation’s Harvest Festival, where they learned about harvesting on an 1800s plantation. This year’s festival included scarecrows, hayrides, sugar cane tasting, games, and refreshments.
Our guests helped us plant our garden, made corn husk dolls, and enjoyed listening to...
Thursday, September 5, 2013 - 8:00am
By Amanda McVay, Varner-Hogg Plantation Educator
Pets and people came out to Varner-Hogg Plantation State Historic Site in August to make the most of the last days of summer during the site’s Dog Days of Summer event. Named for the days that Sirius, the Dog Star, was believed to be responsible for the hot summer weather, pets and owners alike came to have a doggone good time!
The...
