Mister McKinney of Mister McKinney's Historic Houston will interview Kirk Farris on Wednesday, October 1, 2025 at 7 p.m. He's an artist, environmental architect, and Frost Town historian who famously painted the McKee Street Bridge! It's going to be a great one-hour show on Facebook and Instagram (WATCH HERE!) so save the date and tune in here! This is a free program for everyone.

“From Plantation to Emancipation – The Freedom Experience” is a “Houston Signature Experience” by Visit Houston

During your tour of three historic houses that tell Houston’s stories from plantation to emancipation, the talented actor brings the hardships of slavery and the victory of freedom to life in dramatic reenactments. The historical script was written by Martha Whiting-Goddard, Reverend Jack Yates’ great granddaughter, who lived in the Yates House that was relocated to Sam Houston Park.

Explore the following three houses that are designated by UNESCO as Sites of Memory for their “Routes of Enslaved Peoples’ Project” - 1847 Kellum-Noble House; 1866 Fourth Ward Cottage; and 1870 Yates House. “Sites of Memory,” or “Sites of Conscience” are historic places that activate the power of memory to engage the public in a deeper understanding of the past, inspiring action to shape a more just future. These sites break the silence surrounding slavery, and place the tragedy into our universal memory. It is only through dialogue that we can have peace and reconciliation. We have a duty to remember the crimes committed against humanity by our ancestors, especially as we see the return of prejudice and discrimination today.

Starring Kijana Wiseman, M.Ed.! You will be enchanted by Kijana’s dynamic and versatile performances in the realms of theatrical and communicative arts. An award-winning lyric coloratura soprano with an impressive 3.5-octave range, she has garnered accolades such as the City of Houston Talent Competition and the national APCA Best College Performing Artist of the Year. Her interactive one-woman show, The Griot, was honored as the Best College Diversity Program. Kijana’s theatrical journey began in her childhood at Houston’s Theatre Inc. and Alley Theatre, where she played numerous lead roles in both musicals and plays. She holds a BFA in Theatre from the University of Houston and a Master’s degree specializing in African Theatre, achieved through joint studies at Texas Southern University and the University of Liberia, West Africa.

The talented reenactor, Khi Stephens, brings the hardships of slavery and the victory of freedom to life through song, a Library of Congress slave narrative, and a portrayal written by a descendant of the Reverend Jack Yates. Stephens studied theater in Los Angeles and was coached by Martha Whiting-Goddard on her roles.

From Plantation to Emancipation – The Freedom Experience begins on Saturday, February 10 in celebration of Black History Month. These 90-minute tours are offered on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month; from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Groups of 10 or more are encouraged to make a reservation at least two (2) weeks in advance. To make a reservation or to request more information, call 713-655-1912 or email tours@heritagesociety.org.

Please arrive 10-15 minutes prior to your tour time for parking and walking through our campus to the museum gallery for check-in. Free parking is available at 212 Dallas Street.

Amid the youth-led movements of the 1960s and 1970s, Brown and Black students at the University of Houston fought to establish places that would critically shape research, learning, and student activism: the Center for Mexican American Studies and African American Studies. In this talk, Dr. Samantha M. Rodriguez will discuss how both gender and race liberation was central to the struggle to create ethnic studies hubs in Houston, and the relevancy of these fights today.

The Heritage Society will host guest speaker Dr. Samantha Rodriguez at a Lunch and Learn event on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at noon at the Albert & Ethel Herzstein Museum Gallery at 1100 Bagby Street in Houston. Rodriguez, History and Humanities Professor with Houston Community College, will give a lecture in demand titled “Brown and Black Place-Making: Forging Race and Gender Power in Houston” in observance of Hispanic Heritage Month.

Members are free. Non-members are $10. Bring your lunch! Boxed lunches are also available for $13, from the delicious Tres Market.

Join us September 17, 2025, at 6:00 PM for the Coastal Cowboys Exhibit grand opening. Guests will be amazed by Speaker Jim Hodges as he shares the dynamic background and history of Texan cowboys. Enjoy wine, beer, light bites, and country music.

This is a public event. Tickets are $10 per person and Members are Free.

“From Plantation to Emancipation – The Freedom Experience” is a “Houston Signature Experience” by Visit Houston

During your tour of three historic houses that tell Houston’s stories from plantation to emancipation, the talented actor brings the hardships of slavery and the victory of freedom to life in dramatic reenactments. The historical script was written by Martha Whiting-Goddard, Reverend Jack Yates’ great granddaughter, who lived in the Yates House that was relocated to Sam Houston Park.

Explore the following three houses that are designated by UNESCO as Sites of Memory for their “Routes of Enslaved Peoples’ Project” - 1847 Kellum-Noble House; 1866 Fourth Ward Cottage; and 1870 Yates House. “Sites of Memory,” or “Sites of Conscience” are historic places that activate the power of memory to engage the public in a deeper understanding of the past, inspiring action to shape a more just future. These sites break the silence surrounding slavery, and place the tragedy into our universal memory. It is only through dialogue that we can have peace and reconciliation. We have a duty to remember the crimes committed against humanity by our ancestors, especially as we see the return of prejudice and discrimination today.

Starring Kijana Wiseman, M.Ed.! You will be enchanted by Kijana’s dynamic and versatile performances in the realms of theatrical and communicative arts. An award-winning lyric coloratura soprano with an impressive 3.5-octave range, she has garnered accolades such as the City of Houston Talent Competition and the national APCA Best College Performing Artist of the Year. Her interactive one-woman show, The Griot, was honored as the Best College Diversity Program. Kijana’s theatrical journey began in her childhood at Houston’s Theatre Inc. and Alley Theatre, where she played numerous lead roles in both musicals and plays. She holds a BFA in Theatre from the University of Houston and a Master’s degree specializing in African Theatre, achieved through joint studies at Texas Southern University and the University of Liberia, West Africa.

The talented reenactor, Khi Stephens, brings the hardships of slavery and the victory of freedom to life through song, a Library of Congress slave narrative, and a portrayal written by a descendant of the Reverend Jack Yates. Stephens studied theater in Los Angeles and was coached by Martha Whiting-Goddard on her roles.

From Plantation to Emancipation – The Freedom Experience begins on Saturday, February 10 in celebration of Black History Month. These 90-minute tours are offered on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month; from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Groups of 10 or more are encouraged to make a reservation at least two (2) weeks in advance. To make a reservation or to request more information, call 713-655-1912 or email tours@heritagesociety.org.

Please arrive 10-15 minutes prior to your tour time for parking and walking through our campus to the museum gallery for check-in. Free parking is available at 212 Dallas Street.

History on Tap: Dr. Steven Sewell "Choctaw Beer: Tonic or Devil's Brew?" - Thursday, September 11, 6:30 PM

Join us at the New Magnolia Brewing Co. at 1616 Bevis Street for our lecture series on the second Thursday of the month.

Dr. Steven Sewell’s opinion on Choctaw beer is nuanced but clearly positions it as a culturally significant beverage that was sometimes portrayed or marketed as a tonic despite its rough and potent nature. Sewell documents how Choctaw beer, an illegal and homemade brew during Prohibition, was often sold under the guise of a medicinal tonic, with some local doctors attesting to its health benefits, claiming it was healthier than local water. Yet, Sewell also acknowledges its “kick” was enhanced by additives like tobacco and poison berries, making it a “devil’s brew” in terms of potency and effects.

Originally a drink of the Choctaw Indians, Choctaw beer was a concoction composed of hops, barley, tobacco, fishberries, and a small amount of alcohol. When thousands of coal miners found work in the Choctaw Nation in the 1880s, they quickly adopted “choc” as their favorite libation. Miners argued that Choctaw beer was a tonic necessary to maintain their health. Despite the Federal government's repeated attempts in the 1890s to suppress the manufacturing and distribution of “choc,” Choctaw beer remained readily available long after the Choctaw Nation no longer existed. To this day, Choctaw beer remains an important component of the cultural history of Oklahoma. Federal government documents of the era only offer brief references to Choctaw beer. These documents only discuss law enforcement issues related to Choctaw beer, ignoring the rich and colorful culture that developed around Choctaw beer.

#Beer #Free #Program #SpeakerSeries #IndigenousHistory #ChoctawCulture #NativeAmericanHeritage #HistoricalBeverages #CulturalTraditions

Join the University of Houston, Houston History Magazine, and the League of Women Voters Houston for our annual celebration for Women’s Equality Day celebration, on Tuesday, August 26th at 5:30 PM. Meet a special guest panel who will be sharing facts regarding the 1977 National Women’s Conference and UH’s archival project. This is free event, please RSVP.

The Heritage Society at Sam Houston Park and Mister McKinney of Mister McKinney’s Historic Houston celebrates Houston’s 189th Birthday on Saturday, August 23, 2025, with free activities in the afternoon and a 250th America Anniversary theme as described below.

Mayor Whitmire and Council Members have been invited to cut the cake around 3:30 PM.

Youth leaders from around Houston will be there for a Houston pep rally and interactively participate in a fun educational program about Houston’s origins. The Heights High School Junior ROTC will perform a color guard ceremony as a part of a countdown of America’s 250th Anniversary. This is a family-friendly and school-friendly energetic, event.

Special thanks to our sponsors: Houston History Bus for the tours, C. Baldwin Hotel for the grand prize, and Three Brothers Bakery for the decadent cakes.

FREE EVENTS BELOW.

Our museum gallery is free from 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. to enjoy three exhibits. (1) Coastal Cowboys, (2) Texas America250 Exhibit by Texas State Library and Archives Commission, and (3) UH Latino cARTographies digital board.

Tour 2 historic house tours from 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. (Kellum Noble House and Old Place)

Enjoy cake from Three Brothers Bakery and punch!

Someone will win a free weekend stay with brunch from our friends at C. Baldwin Hotel, down the street. The drawing will be held at the end of the event.

Around 4:00 PM, enjoy a free downtown Houston History Bus tour of Downtown by Mister McKinney of Mister McKinney’s Historic Houston. All we ask is that you follow him on Facebook and Instagram here- https://www.facebook.com/MisterMcKinneysHistoricHouston/ and https://www.instagram.com/mistermckinneyshistorichouston/. Seating is limited, sign-up is in person.

The actual birthday for Houston is August 30, 1836, but we want to celebrate a little early this weekend.

Guest Speakers & VIPs

• President Jillian Jopling

• Council Member Amy Peck

• Council Member Julian Ramirez

• Judge Israel Garcia, Honorary Co-Chair

• TSLAC Chair, Dr. Martha Wong

• State Archivist Jelain Chubb (exhibit docent)

• Sam Houston Regional Library and Research Center Manager Alana Inman (exhibit docent)

In-Kind Donors & Supporters

• Mister McKinney

• Three Brothers Bakery

• Houston History Bus

• C. Baldwin Hotel

Join us for a fun Lunch and Learn event on Thursday, August 21, 2025, at noon. Guest speaker Linda Freedman Block, a longtime Hadassah leader and Jewish educator, will discuss the history and culture of the game.

Free for members! Tickets are $10 for non-members and boxed lunch is an additional $13.

We plan to offer Mah Jongg socials in Fall 2025. This speaker event was generously sponsored in part by the Summerlee Foundation.

History on Tap at New Location, the Historic Magnolia Brewing Co.

Thursday, August 14, 2025 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM 📍 New Magnolia Brewing Co. 1616 Bevis St · Houston, TX · 77008. Free Event!

Raise a Glass to Houston's Brewing Past! Join us for History on Tap, a lively evening celebrating Houston’s storied beer legacy. Professor Hank Deslaurier will explore the roots of Houston’s beer culture and the impact of the original Magnolia Brewery—a local landmark that once stood proudly on the banks of Buffalo Bayou (1895–1935).

“From Plantation to Emancipation – The Freedom Experience” is a “Houston Signature Experience” by Visit Houston

During your tour of three historic houses that tell Houston’s stories from plantation to emancipation, the talented actor brings the hardships of slavery and the victory of freedom to life in dramatic reenactments. The historical script was written by Martha Whiting-Goddard, Reverend Jack Yates’ great granddaughter, who lived in the Yates House that was relocated to Sam Houston Park.

Explore the following three houses that are designated by UNESCO as Sites of Memory for their “Routes of Enslaved Peoples’ Project” - 1847 Kellum-Noble House; 1866 Fourth Ward Cottage; and 1870 Yates House. “Sites of Memory,” or “Sites of Conscience” are historic places that activate the power of memory to engage the public in a deeper understanding of the past, inspiring action to shape a more just future. These sites break the silence surrounding slavery, and place the tragedy into our universal memory. It is only through dialogue that we can have peace and reconciliation. We have a duty to remember the crimes committed against humanity by our ancestors, especially as we see the return of prejudice and discrimination today.

Starring Kijana Wiseman, M.Ed.! You will be enchanted by Kijana’s dynamic and versatile performances in the realms of theatrical and communicative arts. An award-winning lyric coloratura soprano with an impressive 3.5-octave range, she has garnered accolades such as the City of Houston Talent Competition and the national APCA Best College Performing Artist of the Year. Her interactive one-woman show, The Griot, was honored as the Best College Diversity Program. Kijana’s theatrical journey began in her childhood at Houston’s Theatre Inc. and Alley Theatre, where she played numerous lead roles in both musicals and plays. She holds a BFA in Theatre from the University of Houston and a Master’s degree specializing in African Theatre, achieved through joint studies at Texas Southern University and the University of Liberia, West Africa.

The talented reenactor, Khi Stephens, brings the hardships of slavery and the victory of freedom to life through song, a Library of Congress slave narrative, and a portrayal written by a descendant of the Reverend Jack Yates. Stephens studied theater in Los Angeles and was coached by Martha Whiting-Goddard on her roles.

From Plantation to Emancipation – The Freedom Experience begins on Saturday, February 10 in celebration of Black History Month. These 90-minute tours are offered on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month; from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Groups of 10 or more are encouraged to make a reservation at least two (2) weeks in advance. To make a reservation or to request more information, call 713-655-1912 or email tours@heritagesociety.org.

Please arrive 10-15 minutes prior to your tour time for parking and walking through our campus to the museum gallery for check-in. Free parking is available at 212 Dallas Street.

National Day of the Cowboy

Celebrate the Spirit of the Cowboy

Saddle up for a memorable afternoon as we honor National Day of the Cowboy at The Heritage Society. Immerse yourself in the rich stories and rugged charm of coastal cowboys during this special docent-led event.

Event Details

Saturday, July 26, 2025 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Location The Heritage Society 1100 Bagby Street, Houston, TX 77002

Parking Free parking available at 212 Dallas Street.

Join Jim Hodges, our expert docent, for an insider’s look at the new Coastal Cowboys Exhibit. Highlights include:

• Guided exploration of artifacts, photographs, and personal narratives

• Stories of ranching life along Texas’s Gulf Coast

• Hands-on opportunities to learn about cowboy gear and techniques

• Two-step demonstration—grab a partner and dance on over

About Jim Hodges

Jim Hodges brings decades of Western heritage expertise to every tour. His dynamic storytelling weaves historical facts with personal anecdotes, bringing the coastal cowboy legacy to life.

Tickets & Registration

Tickets are just $5 per person.

Tickets $10

Join us on Wednesday July 9, 2025, at 6:00 PM for speaker John Espinosa, Governor General - Member of the Houston Chapter, Los Granaderos y Damas de Gálvez. The speaking engagement will be preceded with a wine reception and Spanish tapas. This speaker event was generously sponsored in part by the Summerlee Foundation.

“I grew up as a Hispanic boy in East Houston. In school, I learned all about the Boston Tea Party, about Paul Revere, and all that happened up north in the thirteen colonies. But they never told me about Gálvez or the pivotal role of Spain and the Gulf Coast in the American Revolution.” Espinosa will illuminate the accomplishments of General Bernardo De Galvez of Spain, a great hero of our country’s war for independence. He will also perpetuate the memory of the Spanish soldiers who fought during the American Revolution and share facts about Texas cattle drivers who supplied beef to feed Galvez‘s army.

Did you know Spain chose to support the Revolutionaries by allying with France primarily out of global political strategy? Three places played into their thinking: Menorca, an island off the coast of Spain in the Mediterranean; Gibraltar, a point in southern Spain guarding the entrance to the Mediterranean; and the large region of the Mississippi Valley known as Louisiana. In 1776, as the result of centuries of conflict, the British controlled Menorca and Gibraltar – key to Spain’s defense of its coast – and the French held Louisiana – a potentially lucrative source of raw materials. When France agreed to return Louisiana as part of an alliance, Spain entered the War on the Franco-American side.

About the Organization- Los Granaderos y Damas de Gálvez was founded during the Bicentennial of the United States in 1976 to research and understand the pivotal, yet unpublicized role of Spain -- and the contributions of her King and her people -- to the colonists’ victory in the American Revolution. In this endeavor, our organization labors to teach about this important, but forgotten, aspect of American history.

Tickets include free parking at 212 Dallas Street, wine and tapas reception, and three museum gallery exhibits.

“From Plantation to Emancipation – The Freedom Experience” is a “Houston Signature Experience” by Visit Houston

During your tour of three historic houses that tell Houston’s stories from plantation to emancipation, the talented actor brings the hardships of slavery and the victory of freedom to life in dramatic reenactments. The historical script was written by Martha Whiting-Goddard, Reverend Jack Yates’ great granddaughter, who lived in the Yates House that was relocated to Sam Houston Park.

Explore the following three houses that are designated by UNESCO as Sites of Memory for their “Routes of Enslaved Peoples’ Project” - 1847 Kellum-Noble House; 1866 Fourth Ward Cottage; and 1870 Yates House. “Sites of Memory,” or “Sites of Conscience” are historic places that activate the power of memory to engage the public in a deeper understanding of the past, inspiring action to shape a more just future. These sites break the silence surrounding slavery, and place the tragedy into our universal memory. It is only through dialogue that we can have peace and reconciliation. We have a duty to remember the crimes committed against humanity by our ancestors, especially as we see the return of prejudice and discrimination today.

Starring Kijana Wiseman, M.Ed.! You will be enchanted by Kijana’s dynamic and versatile performances in the realms of theatrical and communicative arts. An award-winning lyric coloratura soprano with an impressive 3.5-octave range, she has garnered accolades such as the City of Houston Talent Competition and the national APCA Best College Performing Artist of the Year. Her interactive one-woman show, The Griot, was honored as the Best College Diversity Program. Kijana’s theatrical journey began in her childhood at Houston’s Theatre Inc. and Alley Theatre, where she played numerous lead roles in both musicals and plays. She holds a BFA in Theatre from the University of Houston and a Master’s degree specializing in African Theatre, achieved through joint studies at Texas Southern University and the University of Liberia, West Africa.

The talented reenactor, Khi Stephens, brings the hardships of slavery and the victory of freedom to life through song, a Library of Congress slave narrative, and a portrayal written by a descendant of the Reverend Jack Yates. Stephens studied theater in Los Angeles and was coached by Martha Whiting-Goddard on her roles.

From Plantation to Emancipation – The Freedom Experience begins on Saturday, February 10 in celebration of Black History Month. These 90-minute tours are offered on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month; from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Groups of 10 or more are encouraged to make a reservation at least two (2) weeks in advance. To make a reservation or to request more information, call 713-655-1912 or email tours@heritagesociety.org.

Please arrive 10-15 minutes prior to your tour time for parking and walking through our campus to the museum gallery for check-in. Free parking is available at 212 Dallas Street.

“From Plantation to Emancipation – The Freedom Experience” is a “Houston Signature Experience” by Visit Houston

During your tour of three historic houses that tell Houston’s stories from plantation to emancipation, the talented actor brings the hardships of slavery and the victory of freedom to life in dramatic reenactments. The historical script was written by Martha Whiting-Goddard, Reverend Jack Yates’ great granddaughter, who lived in the Yates House that was relocated to Sam Houston Park.

Explore the following three houses that are designated by UNESCO as Sites of Memory for their “Routes of Enslaved Peoples’ Project” - 1847 Kellum-Noble House; 1866 Fourth Ward Cottage; and 1870 Yates House. “Sites of Memory,” or “Sites of Conscience” are historic places that activate the power of memory to engage the public in a deeper understanding of the past, inspiring action to shape a more just future. These sites break the silence surrounding slavery, and place the tragedy into our universal memory. It is only through dialogue that we can have peace and reconciliation. We have a duty to remember the crimes committed against humanity by our ancestors, especially as we see the return of prejudice and discrimination today.

Starring Kijana Wiseman, M.Ed.! You will be enchanted by Kijana’s dynamic and versatile performances in the realms of theatrical and communicative arts. An award-winning lyric coloratura soprano with an impressive 3.5-octave range, she has garnered accolades such as the City of Houston Talent Competition and the national APCA Best College Performing Artist of the Year. Her interactive one-woman show, The Griot, was honored as the Best College Diversity Program. Kijana’s theatrical journey began in her childhood at Houston’s Theatre Inc. and Alley Theatre, where she played numerous lead roles in both musicals and plays. She holds a BFA in Theatre from the University of Houston and a Master’s degree specializing in African Theatre, achieved through joint studies at Texas Southern University and the University of Liberia, West Africa.

These 90-minute tours are offered on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month; from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Groups of 10 or more are encouraged to make a reservation at least two (2) weeks in advance. To make a reservation or to request more information, call 713-655-1912 or email tours@heritagesociety.org.

Please arrive 10-15 minutes prior to your tour time for parking and walking through our campus to the museum gallery for check-in. Free parking is available at 212 Dallas Street.

Guest Speaker: Bryanna A. Jenkins, Esq. (she, her, hers)

In celebration of Pride Month, we invite the community to engage with keynote speaker Bryanna Jenkins on Friday, June 20, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. A wine reception and book signing will also be held. Bryanna will be sharing the life and legacy of nationally renowned local trans-activist, Monica Roberts. The topic of the evening is “The Struggle to Regain Balance After the Tip”.

Roberts was a founding member of the National Transgender Advocacy Coalition, a lobbying and advocacy group dedicated to protecting and advancing the civil rights of trans people. She is best known for her work in Texas and Kentucky politics but worked tirelessly at all levels of government for trans rights. She served on the board of the Louisville Fairness Campaign, wrote for several publications, and won many awards for her advocacy and work including the Human Rights Campaign’s John Walzel Equality Award, the Susan J. Hyde Award for Longevity in the Movement, and the Virginia Price Pioneer Award. Monica Roberts passed away on October 6, 2020.

About the Speaker
Bryanna (she/her) is the Policy Director at Lavender Rights Project. Ms. Jenkins received her B.S. from Morgan State University, her M.A. from the University of Baltimore, and her J.D. from DePaul University College of Law. Ms. Jenkins also published Birth Certificate with a Benefit: Using LGBTQ Jurisprudence to Make the Argument for a Transgender Person’s Constitutional Right to Amended Identity Documents in the CUNY Law Review. Prior to law school Bryanna founded and led The Baltimore Transgender Alliance and organized the city's first Baltimore Transgender Uprising March in 2015. Bryanna is also the Vice Chair of the National Bar Association’s LGBTQ Division.  

“From Plantation to Emancipation – The Freedom Experience” is a “Houston Signature Experience” by Visit Houston

During your tour of three historic houses that tell Houston’s stories from plantation to emancipation, the talented actor brings the hardships of slavery and the victory of freedom to life in dramatic reenactments. The historical script was written by Martha Whiting-Goddard, Reverend Jack Yates’ great granddaughter, who lived in the Yates House that was relocated to Sam Houston Park.

Explore the following three houses that are designated by UNESCO as Sites of Memory for their “Routes of Enslaved Peoples’ Project” - 1847 Kellum-Noble House; 1866 Fourth Ward Cottage; and 1870 Yates House. “Sites of Memory,” or “Sites of Conscience” are historic places that activate the power of memory to engage the public in a deeper understanding of the past, inspiring action to shape a more just future. These sites break the silence surrounding slavery, and place the tragedy into our universal memory. It is only through dialogue that we can have peace and reconciliation. We have a duty to remember the crimes committed against humanity by our ancestors, especially as we see the return of prejudice and discrimination today.

Starring Kijana Wiseman, M.Ed.! You will be enchanted by Kijana’s dynamic and versatile performances in the realms of theatrical and communicative arts. An award-winning lyric coloratura soprano with an impressive 3.5-octave range, she has garnered accolades such as the City of Houston Talent Competition and the national APCA Best College Performing Artist of the Year. Her interactive one-woman show, The Griot, was honored as the Best College Diversity Program. Kijana’s theatrical journey began in her childhood at Houston’s Theatre Inc. and Alley Theatre, where she played numerous lead roles in both musicals and plays. She holds a BFA in Theatre from the University of Houston and a Master’s degree specializing in African Theatre, achieved through joint studies at Texas Southern University and the University of Liberia, West Africa.

The talented reenactor, Khi Stephens, brings the hardships of slavery and the victory of freedom to life through song, a Library of Congress slave narrative, and a portrayal written by a descendant of the Reverend Jack Yates. Stephens studied theater in Los Angeles and was coached by Martha Whiting-Goddard on her roles.

From Plantation to Emancipation – The Freedom Experience begins on Saturday, February 10 in celebration of Black History Month. These 90-minute tours are offered on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month; from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Groups of 10 or more are encouraged to make a reservation at least two (2) weeks in advance. To make a reservation or to request more information, call 713-655-1912 or email tours@heritagesociety.org.

Please arrive 10-15 minutes prior to your tour time for parking and walking through our campus to the museum gallery for check-in. Free parking is available at 212 Dallas Street.

CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS

Delight in the Juneteenth tradition of teacakes and red punch at our popular Black history tour. Explore the following three houses that are designated by UNESCO as Sites of Memory for their “Routes of Enslaved Peoples’ Project” - 1847 Kellum-Noble House; 1866 Fourth Ward Cottage; and 1870 Yates House.

🏠 Step into History: Our three historic houses stand as silent witnesses to the triumphs and struggles of generations past. From the opulent grandeur of the plantation era to the resilient spirit of emancipation, each house tells a unique story of resilience, courage, and hope.

📜 Guided Tours: Led by a tour guide, this Black History Tour offers a glimpse into the lives of those who once lived on a plantation and segregated neighborhood after June 19, 1865. Learn about the daily lives of enslaved individuals, the struggles for freedom, and the years that followed Juneteenth in our nation's history.

🍰 Tea Cake Tastings: Indulge in a sweet treat as you savor the flavors of tradition with our tea cake tastings. Made from cherished family recipes passed down through generations, these delectable treats serve as a reminder of resilience and community in the face of adversity.

TICKETS

🗓️Juneteenth Teacakes and Tours - Saturday, June 7, 2025, 10 AM, 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM

🗓️Juneteenth Teacakes and Tours - Saturday, June 14, 2025, 10 AM, 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM

🗓️Juneteenth Teacakes and Tours - Thursday, June 19, 2025, 10 AM, 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM

For Group Tours, please contact tours@heritagesociety.org.

“From Plantation to Emancipation – The Freedom Experience” is a “Houston Signature Experience” by Visit Houston

During your tour of three historic houses that tell Houston’s stories from plantation to emancipation, the talented actor brings the hardships of slavery and the victory of freedom to life in dramatic reenactments. The historical script was written by Martha Whiting-Goddard, Reverend Jack Yates’ great granddaughter, who lived in the Yates House that was relocated to Sam Houston Park.

Explore the following three houses that are designated by UNESCO as Sites of Memory for their “Routes of Enslaved Peoples’ Project” - 1847 Kellum-Noble House; 1866 Fourth Ward Cottage; and 1870 Yates House. “Sites of Memory,” or “Sites of Conscience” are historic places that activate the power of memory to engage the public in a deeper understanding of the past, inspiring action to shape a more just future. These sites break the silence surrounding slavery, and place the tragedy into our universal memory. It is only through dialogue that we can have peace and reconciliation. We have a duty to remember the crimes committed against humanity by our ancestors, especially as we see the return of prejudice and discrimination today.

Starring Kijana Wiseman, M.Ed.! You will be enchanted by Kijana’s dynamic and versatile performances in the realms of theatrical and communicative arts. An award-winning lyric coloratura soprano with an impressive 3.5-octave range, she has garnered accolades such as the City of Houston Talent Competition and the national APCA Best College Performing Artist of the Year. Her interactive one-woman show, The Griot, was honored as the Best College Diversity Program. Kijana’s theatrical journey began in her childhood at Houston’s Theatre Inc. and Alley Theatre, where she played numerous lead roles in both musicals and plays. She holds a BFA in Theatre from the University of Houston and a Master’s degree specializing in African Theatre, achieved through joint studies at Texas Southern University and the University of Liberia, West Africa.

The talented reenactor, Khi Stephens, brings the hardships of slavery and the victory of freedom to life through song, a Library of Congress slave narrative, and a portrayal written by a descendant of the Reverend Jack Yates. Stephens studied theater in Los Angeles and was coached by Martha Whiting-Goddard on her roles.

From Plantation to Emancipation – The Freedom Experience begins on Saturday, February 10 in celebration of Black History Month. These 90-minute tours are offered on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month; from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Groups of 10 or more are encouraged to make a reservation at least two (2) weeks in advance. To make a reservation or to request more information, call 713-655-1912 or email tours@heritagesociety.org.

Please arrive 10-15 minutes prior to your tour time for parking and walking through our campus to the museum gallery for check-in. Free parking is available at 212 Dallas Street.

CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS

Delight in the Juneteenth tradition of teacakes and red punch at our popular Black history tour. Explore the following three houses that are designated by UNESCO as Sites of Memory for their “Routes of Enslaved Peoples’ Project” - 1847 Kellum-Noble House; 1866 Fourth Ward Cottage; and 1870 Yates House.

🏠 Step into History: Our three historic houses stand as silent witnesses to the triumphs and struggles of generations past. From the opulent grandeur of the plantation era to the resilient spirit of emancipation, each house tells a unique story of resilience, courage, and hope.

📜 Guided Tours: Led by a tour guide, this Black History Tour offers a glimpse into the lives of those who once lived on a plantation and segregated neighborhood after June 19, 1865. Learn about the daily lives of enslaved individuals, the struggles for freedom, and the years that followed Juneteenth in our nation's history.

🍰 Tea Cake Tastings: Indulge in a sweet treat as you savor the flavors of tradition with our tea cake tastings. Made from cherished family recipes passed down through generations, these delectable treats serve as a reminder of resilience and community in the face of adversity.

TICKETS

🗓️Juneteenth Teacakes and Tours - Saturday, June 7, 2025, 10 AM, 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM

🗓️Juneteenth Teacakes and Tours - Saturday, June 14, 2025, 10 AM, 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM

🗓️Juneteenth Teacakes and Tours - Thursday, June 19, 2025, 10 AM, 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM

For Group Tours, please contact tours@heritagesociety.org.

Join us on Tuesday, June 10 for a presentation about Sam Houston by Derrick Birdsall, the Executive Director of Sam Houston Memorial Museum at North Shepherd Brewing, at 6:30 p.m., 4816 N. Shepherd Drive Houston, TX 77018.

Derrick Birdsall is the Executive Director of the Sam Houston Memorial Museum. With a love of history that started as a child, Birdsall’s vision of turning his passion into a professional career happened at Sam Houston State University as a graduate student. Birdsall earned a Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education from Sam Houston State in 1991. He later graduated with his master’s degree in history, also from SHSU. With deep roots in the community, Birdsall lived in Huntsville for over a decade before moving to the Dallas Fort-Worth Metroplex for a job opportunity with Farmers Branch Historical Park, a similar living history/outdoor museum. After 18 years in that role, the urge to move back to the Piney Woods and be closer to family grew stronger. 

“I work in a beautiful place with people passionate about Sam Houston and telling his story. It doesn’t get much better than that,” he said. “There are days that I have to pinch myself because there’s no way that I could have made a career out of teaching history out of a log cabin, sitting by the fireplace, in a room where Sam Houston spent time.”

“From Plantation to Emancipation – The Freedom Experience” is a “Houston Signature Experience” by Visit Houston

During your tour of three historic houses that tell Houston’s stories from plantation to emancipation, the talented actor brings the hardships of slavery and the victory of freedom to life in dramatic reenactments. The historical script was written by Martha Whiting-Goddard, Reverend Jack Yates’ great granddaughter, who lived in the Yates House that was relocated to Sam Houston Park.

Explore the following three houses that are designated by UNESCO as Sites of Memory for their “Routes of Enslaved Peoples’ Project” - 1847 Kellum-Noble House; 1866 Fourth Ward Cottage; and 1870 Yates House. “Sites of Memory,” or “Sites of Conscience” are historic places that activate the power of memory to engage the public in a deeper understanding of the past, inspiring action to shape a more just future. These sites break the silence surrounding slavery, and place the tragedy into our universal memory. It is only through dialogue that we can have peace and reconciliation. We have a duty to remember the crimes committed against humanity by our ancestors, especially as we see the return of prejudice and discrimination today.

Starring Kijana Wiseman, M.Ed.! You will be enchanted by Kijana’s dynamic and versatile performances in the realms of theatrical and communicative arts. An award-winning lyric coloratura soprano with an impressive 3.5-octave range, she has garnered accolades such as the City of Houston Talent Competition and the national APCA Best College Performing Artist of the Year. Her interactive one-woman show, The Griot, was honored as the Best College Diversity Program. Kijana’s theatrical journey began in her childhood at Houston’s Theatre Inc. and Alley Theatre, where she played numerous lead roles in both musicals and plays. She holds a BFA in Theatre from the University of Houston and a Master’s degree specializing in African Theatre, achieved through joint studies at Texas Southern University and the University of Liberia, West Africa.

The talented reenactor, Khi Stephens, brings the hardships of slavery and the victory of freedom to life through song, a Library of Congress slave narrative, and a portrayal written by a descendant of the Reverend Jack Yates. Stephens studied theater in Los Angeles and was coached by Martha Whiting-Goddard on her roles.

From Plantation to Emancipation – The Freedom Experience begins on Saturday, February 10 in celebration of Black History Month. These 90-minute tours are offered on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month; from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Groups of 10 or more are encouraged to make a reservation at least two (2) weeks in advance. To make a reservation or to request more information, call 713-655-1912 or email tours@heritagesociety.org.

Please arrive 10-15 minutes prior to your tour time for parking and walking through our campus to the museum gallery for check-in. Free parking is available at 212 Dallas Street.

CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS

Delight in the Juneteenth tradition of teacakes and red punch at our popular Black history tour. Explore the following three houses that are designated by UNESCO as Sites of Memory for their “Routes of Enslaved Peoples’ Project” - 1847 Kellum-Noble House; 1866 Fourth Ward Cottage; and 1870 Yates House.

🏠 Step into History: Our three historic houses stand as silent witnesses to the triumphs and struggles of generations past. From the opulent grandeur of the plantation era to the resilient spirit of emancipation, each house tells a unique story of resilience, courage, and hope.

📜 Guided Tours: Led by a tour guide, this Black History Tour offers a glimpse into the lives of those who once lived on a plantation and segregated neighborhood after June 19, 1865. Learn about the daily lives of enslaved individuals, the struggles for freedom, and the years that followed Juneteenth in our nation's history.

🍰 Tea Cake Tastings: Indulge in a sweet treat as you savor the flavors of tradition with our tea cake tastings. Made from cherished family recipes passed down through generations, these delectable treats serve as a reminder of resilience and community in the face of adversity.

TICKETS

🗓️Juneteenth Teacakes and Tours - Saturday, June 7, 2025, 10 AM, 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM

🗓️Juneteenth Teacakes and Tours - Saturday, June 14, 2025, 10 AM, 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM

🗓️Juneteenth Teacakes and Tours - Thursday, June 19, 2025, 10 AM, 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM

For Group Tours, please contact tours@heritagesociety.org.

Tickets and tables are available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting The Heritage Society’s programs and initiatives. For reservations or more information, please visit www.heritagesociety.org/houston-heritage-luncheon-2025 or contact lwoods@heritagesociety.org.

The Heritage Society Showcases “The Houston Spirit” at the Houston Heritage Luncheon

Houston, TX – The Heritage Society is proud to announce the upcoming Houston Heritage Luncheon, a celebration of the city’s rich history and cultural legacy. The event will take place at the historic Eldorado Ballroom on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.

“We’re looking forward to learning how Houston developed in the 1930s to the 1960s.” said Jillian Jopling, board president of The Heritage Society. “We will be going back to the days of Captain James A. Baker, Jesse H. Jones, and the 8F Crowd.”

Who was the 8F Crowd? Per the New York Times: "Decisions that shaped Houston were made in the Lamar Hotel’s suite 8F, a group of rooms occupied by George R. Brown of the Brown & Root Company. The ''8F Crowd,'' included Brown, Jones, and a few other very wealthy Houston men who met there regularly and had a major influence on Houston. Suite 8-F was often referred to as the "unofficial capital of Texas" according to an article.

This year’s luncheon will honor the docents of The Heritage Society, past and present, for their invaluable contributions to preserving Houston’s heritage. The keynote speaker, Ambassador Chase Untermeyer, will share insights into the historical and sociological factors that have shaped Houston’s success.

Ambassador Untermeyer brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the event. Over his distinguished career, he has held positions at all four levels of government—local, state, national, and international—and has worked in journalism, academia, and business. He served as the United States Ambassador to Qatar, Assistant Secretary of the Navy, and Director of the Voice of America, among other notable roles. His deep understanding of history and governance, combined with his engaging speaking style, makes him an exceptional choice to inspire and educate attendees.

“The Houston Heritage Luncheon is a cornerstone of our efforts to celebrate and preserve the stories that define our city,” said Alison Bell, executive director of The Heritage Society. “This event traditionally honors the docents and individuals who have dedicated themselves to preserving Houston’s past with our non-profit and also inspires us to look forward to a future built on the foundation of our shared history.”

Tickets Here

This year's Juneteenth Celebration kicks off at 6:00 p.m., on Friday, May 16, with subject matter expert Sam Collins. Teaming with Sue Johnson of the Nia Cultural Center in Galveston, he and others have established the Juneteenth Legacy Project. Tickets include a wine and cheese reception with a pop-up exhibit by Houston Suffragists Project.

Samuel Collins was born in Galveston, Texas in 1971. He grew up in Hitchcock with his mother and grandparents and spent time in Galveston with his father's family. He grew up in a predominantly African American community but attended the integrated schools. He attended Texas A&M University. After he graduated, he moved to Corpus Christi in 1995 but quickly returned to Houston in 1996. In 2012 he decided to become his own boss and opened his own business. In 2005, Collins and his wife purchased the Stringfellow Orchards after he saw a historical marker on the road. Since then, he has endeavored to restore the property and highlight the histories of African Americans who worked in the orchards following the Civil War. Collins has also been involved in Juneteeth Celebrations in both Galveston and Hitchcock, and other historic preservation efforts in Galveston County. In his interview, he details the need for historical preservation in the African American community.

TICKETS HERE

At noon, on May 15 with speaker and author Dr. Jeremy Pedigo for “The Life and Politics of United States Senator Sam Houston”.

The “The Life and Politics of United States Senator Sam Houston” explores Sam Houston’s life events and developed ideology, and examined their impact on his actions and decisions as a U.S. Senator on four major issues: the acquisition and organization of Oregon, the Mexican American War, the Compromise of 1850, and the Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854. The findings showed that Houston’s actions and decisions supported the Union, opposed Texas secession, embraced compromise to settle political disputes, recognized the rights and contributions of Native Americans. Furthermore, Houston directly confronted people in which he disagreed with.

Speaker’s Biography

Jeremy Pedigo is a full-time Professor of Government and History at San Jacinto College, teaching both face-to-face and online classes. His primary teaching and research interests are American and Texas politics, public policy, the bureaucracy, early American history, and the Antebellum period. In 2023, Jeremy received the Silver Award from San Jacinto College and a scholarship from the Katy Heritage Society for an original paper titled, “John W. Balliger: Railroad Pioneer and M-K-T Executive.” Here is also a member of the East Texas Historical Association, having presented at their 2024 and 2023 Fall Conferences in Nacogdoches.

Join us on Tuesday, May 13 for a presentation by board member and Professor Hank Deslaurier who will speak about “Jack Johnson: The Galveston Giant” held at North Shepherd Brewing, at 6:30 p.m., 4816 N. Shepherd Drive Houston, TX 77018.

Born in Galveston, Texas in 1878 to former enslaved parents, Johnson initially worked as a dock worker during his teenage years before embarking on a new path at the age of 16. Growing up in Galveston’s racially diverse Twelfth Ward and being part of a Black and White gang shielded him from experiencing significant amounts of racism, as he later admitted. 

It was in the late 1800s that a shop owner in Dallas introduced Johnson to the world of boxing, recognizing his natural physical prowess. Standing over six feet tall and weighing around 220 pounds, with exceptional reflexes akin to a cat, Johnson’s physical attributes were ideal for the sport. Starting on the local boxing scene, he eventually made his way to Chicago, where he joined forces with a local promoter. Victories and defeats marked his journey, but one loss turned out to be promising. In 1901, Johnson was back in Galveston. As Texas had banned prizefighting authorities arrested Johnson and boxer Joe Choynski. During their 23-day incarceration, Choynski taught defensive techniques to Johnson, crafting his skills that would lead him to be considered one of the greatest defensive fighters of all time.

“From Plantation to Emancipation – The Freedom Experience” is a “Houston Signature Experience” by Visit Houston

During your tour of three historic houses that tell Houston’s stories from plantation to emancipation, the talented actor brings the hardships of slavery and the victory of freedom to life in dramatic reenactments. The historical script was written by Martha Whiting-Goddard, Reverend Jack Yates’ great granddaughter, who lived in the Yates House that was relocated to Sam Houston Park.

Explore the following three houses that are designated by UNESCO as Sites of Memory for their “Routes of Enslaved Peoples’ Project” - 1847 Kellum-Noble House; 1866 Fourth Ward Cottage; and 1870 Yates House. “Sites of Memory,” or “Sites of Conscience” are historic places that activate the power of memory to engage the public in a deeper understanding of the past, inspiring action to shape a more just future. These sites break the silence surrounding slavery, and place the tragedy into our universal memory. It is only through dialogue that we can have peace and reconciliation. We have a duty to remember the crimes committed against humanity by our ancestors, especially as we see the return of prejudice and discrimination today.

Starring Kijana Wiseman, M.Ed.! You will be enchanted by Kijana’s dynamic and versatile performances in the realms of theatrical and communicative arts. An award-winning lyric coloratura soprano with an impressive 3.5-octave range, she has garnered accolades such as the City of Houston Talent Competition and the national APCA Best College Performing Artist of the Year. Her interactive one-woman show, The Griot, was honored as the Best College Diversity Program. Kijana’s theatrical journey began in her childhood at Houston’s Theatre Inc. and Alley Theatre, where she played numerous lead roles in both musicals and plays. She holds a BFA in Theatre from the University of Houston and a Master’s degree specializing in African Theatre, achieved through joint studies at Texas Southern University and the University of Liberia, West Africa.

The talented reenactor, Khi Stephens, brings the hardships of slavery and the victory of freedom to life through song, a Library of Congress slave narrative, and a portrayal written by a descendant of the Reverend Jack Yates. Stephens studied theater in Los Angeles and was coached by Martha Whiting-Goddard on her roles.

From Plantation to Emancipation – The Freedom Experience begins on Saturday, February 10 in celebration of Black History Month. These 90-minute tours are offered on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month; from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Groups of 10 or more are encouraged to make a reservation at least two (2) weeks in advance. To make a reservation or to request more information, call 713-655-1912 or email tours@heritagesociety.org.

Please arrive 10-15 minutes prior to your tour time for parking and walking through our campus to the museum gallery for check-in. Free parking is available at 212 Dallas Street.

TICKETS: Karankawa Exhibit Programs — The Heritage Society