Military History

Texas has a unique military history reflecting its stages of growth and the governments that have contributed to its development. The Texas Historical Commission (THC) recognizes the importance of this heritage by supporting efforts to preserve historically important military sites.

The Military Sites Program (Military History) was developed to help provide the proper tools and support for these special places in Texas history. Since 1997, the program has conducted multiple long-term projects to increase the documentation and interpretation of the state's military history. These programs include: the Texas in the Cold War Oral History Initiative, the Texas in World War I Centennial Initiative, the Texas in World War II Initiative, the World War II Internment Camp Initiative, the Texas Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War Initiative, the Texas Civil War Monuments Funding Initiative, and a national award winning oral history training workshop series. In the course of these projects, the Military History Program has researched and produced books and multiple travel brochures that highlight Texas military sites.

In addition to providing regular historical support to Texas military sites, ongoing projects for the Military History Program include Texas in the Cold War Oral History Initiative, continuing to build public awareness of the World War II Internment Camp Initiative, the Texas Civil War Monuments Funding Initiative, and assisting with planning efforts for the Bicentennial of the Texas Revolution and Texas Independence from Mexico.

Additional information about Military History Program initiatives and their resulting publications can be found via the topical links found under the “In This Section.” Questions about these efforts along with interest in oral history training or participation in ongoing oral history initiatives should be directed to the Military History Program Coordinator at militaryhistory@thc.texas.gov.