“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.

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.

Bring the kids and grandkids this Saturday, June 27, 10 AM - 2 PM, to meet Deb Evans, the award-winning author of the Bella’s Tales of History children’s book series, She will be coordinating children’s activities for The American Revolution Experience exhibit. Children can visit the Junior Patriots area while Parents tour the exhibit or parents can join their children for kid-friendly stories from the Founding of the United States of America, coloring pages, word puzzles, and a craft. Evans will also be with us on Wednesday, July 1 and Saturday, July 11 (10 AM - 2 PM). Evans’ books from the Bella’s Tales of History series are available in our gift shop and Evans will be happy to autograph your books for you.  Buy three children's by Evans and receive a plush toy puppy.

⭐ Patriot Day at The Heritage Society

Wednesday, July 1 • 10 AM–4 PM • Free Family Event

Celebrate America’s 250th birthday kickoff in Sam Houston Park! Explore The American Revolution Experience, tour the Kellum‑Noble House, enjoy old‑fashioned toy demos, join our Patriot Scavenger Hunt, and hear a special presentation from the Sons of the American Revolution.

Families can enjoy storytime with author Deb Evans, a lunch‑and‑learn with Saengerbund Houston, and festive treats including hot dogs and lemonade.

Bring the whole family for a day of history, heritage, and hands‑on fun at 1100 Bagby Street.

Click to purchase Tickets Here!

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. Juneteenth Tea Cakes are Tours are made possible by our generous sponsors - Twin Eagle, energy marketers or the fourth year in a row!

🏠 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

🗓️ Saturday, June 6, 2026, 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM

🗓️ Saturday, June 13, 2026, 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM

🗓️ Friday, June 19, 2026, 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM (Juneteenth!)

🗓️Saturday, June 20, 2026, 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM

🗓️Saturday, June 27, 2026, 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.

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.

Bring the kids and grandkids this Saturday, June 27, 10 AM - 2 PM, to meet Deb Evans, the award-winning author of the Bella’s Tales of History children’s book series, She will be coordinating children’s activities for The American Revolution Experience exhibit. Children can visit the Junior Patriots area while Parents tour the exhibit or parents can join their children for kid-friendly stories from the Founding of the United States of America, coloring pages, word puzzles, and a craft. Evans will also be with us on Wednesday, July 1 and Saturday, July 11 (10 AM - 2 PM). Evans’ books from the Bella’s Tales of History series are available in our gift shop and Evans will be happy to autograph your books for you.  Buy three children's by Evans and receive a plush toy puppy.

Click to purchase Tickets Here!

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. Juneteenth Tea Cakes are Tours are made possible by our generous sponsors - Twin Eagle, energy marketers or the fourth year in a row!

🏠 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

🗓️ Saturday, June 6, 2026, 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM

🗓️ Saturday, June 13, 2026, 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM

🗓️ Friday, June 19, 2026, 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM (Juneteenth!)

🗓️Saturday, June 20, 2026, 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM

🗓️Saturday, June 27, 2026, 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.

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.

“LULAC Council 60 Clubhouse Community Harvest” Workshop Will Collect Family Archives and Oral Histories in Houston

 RSVP TO ATTEND

HOUSTON (May 20, 2026) — Latinos in Heritage Conservation and LULAC Council 60 Inc. will host a free “Council 60 Clubhouse Community Harvest” workshop on Saturday, June 20, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Heritage Society, 1100 Bagby Street, inviting community members to contribute photographs, letters, memorabilia, oral histories, and personal archives connected to Houston Latino civil rights history.

The workshop is part of broader efforts to stabilize, restore, and reactivate the historic LULAC Council 60 Clubhouse, one of the nation’s most significant Latino heritage landmarks.

Community leaders, preservation advocates, and Latino civil-rights historians have continued highlighting the urgent need to preserve the 1907 Midtown Houston building, which served as the primary organizing site for Mexican American civic and political leadership during the 1950s and 1960s.

From inside the walls of the Council 60 Clubhouse, the national organization challenged racism—both legally and culturally—for the equality of Latinos living in the United States. From the Clubhouse, Mexican American leaders helped launch initiatives that later evolved into Project Head Start, SER–Jobs for Progress, the desegregation of schools, and the National LULAC Housing Commission. LULAC materials gathered during the workshop will help support broader efforts to document, preserve, and interpret the landmark’s legacy for future generations while ensuring community memory remains central to the preservation process.

For Minnette Boesel, former board president of The Heritage Society and a longtime preservation leader who helped curate the 2023–24 exhibit “A Civil Rights Milestone: President JFK’s Visit with LULAC in Houston,” the workshop is an opportunity to keep community voices and personal materials at the center of the preservation process.

“The Community Harvest is intended to center community voices and materials in the preservation process,” Boesel said.

Speakers and partners emphasized that restoring the Clubhouse is both a preservation project and a civic responsibility. Sehila Mota Casper, executive director of Latinos in Heritage Conservation, explained that community-driven archiving helps ensure history remains connected to the people who lived it.

“This kind of community-driven archiving ensures that everyday stories and family records are preserved alongside institutional records,” Mota Casper said. “It keeps history rooted in the people who lived it.”

Alison Bell, executive director of The Heritage Society, said, “Our ‘Mexican American History & Culture in 20th Century Houston’ mural is a living map of our community’s history. Having the LULAC Council 60 Clubhouse depicted there — and hosting the Community Harvest nearby — makes this the perfect place to gather and preserve the memories and artifacts that tell Latino history and heritage stories.”

Restoration Efforts Continue During National Preservation Month

Earlier this month, AIA Houston and C 60, Inc. hosted a standing-room-only program on Cinco de Mayo at the historic LULAC Council 60 Clubhouse to outline restoration plans, honor the site’s civil-rights legacy, and announce the Community Harvest initiative.

Community leaders, preservation advocates, and Latino civil-rights historians gathered at the site to highlight the urgent need to stabilize and restore one of the nation’s most significant Latino heritage landmarks.

Preservation partners will continue collaborating throughout National Preservation Month and beyond to repair the structure’s historic fabric and return the clubhouse to active community use.

For more information about the event, please visit https://givebutter.com/Council60Harvest or contact info@latinoheritage.us.

Event Information

What: “Council 60 Clubhouse Community Harvest” Workshop
When: Saturday, June 20, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: The Heritage Society, (Tea Room) 1100 Bagby Street, Houston, TX 77002

RSVP: https://givebutter.com/Council60Harvest

Community members and LULACers are invited to bring photographs, letters, memorabilia, oral histories, and personal archives connected to the historic LULAC Council 60 Clubhouse and Houston Latino history.  Free parking is available at 212 Dallas Street.

About the LULAC Council 60 Clubhouse

The LULAC Council 60 Clubhouse, built in 1907 and acquired by LULAC Council 60 in 1955, served as a central organizing site for Mexican American political and civic activity in Houston during the 1950s and 1960s. From this Midtown building, leaders helped launch programs that later evolved into Project Head Start, SER–Jobs for Progress, and the National LULAC Housing Commission. The clubhouse is one of two National Trust for Historic Preservation landmarks in Houston.

About Latinos in Heritage Conservation

Latinos in Heritage Conservation (LHC) is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing historic preservation in Latinx communities through education, advocacy, and leadership. LHC works to ensure that Latinx histories, places, and cultural contributions are recognized, protected, and celebrated as an essential part of the American narrative.

Click to purchase Tickets Here!

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. Juneteenth Tea Cakes are Tours are made possible by our generous sponsors - Twin Eagle, energy marketers or the fourth year in a row!

🏠 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

🗓️ Saturday, June 6, 2026, 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM

🗓️ Saturday, June 13, 2026, 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM

🗓️ Friday, June 19, 2026, 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM (Juneteenth!)

🗓️Saturday, June 20, 2026, 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM

🗓️Saturday, June 27, 2026, 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.

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.

Celebrate Juneteenth with Us: Uncovering Black Heritage Family Trees

This Juneteenth, take a meaningful step into your family’s past. The Heritage Society is proud to host the Afro-American Historical & Genealogical Society (AAHGS) – Willie Lee Gay H-Town Chapter for a special interactive celebration dedicated to preserving African-ancestored family history, genealogy, and cultural legacy.

Whether you are just beginning to trace your roots or are looking for expert strategies to break through historical "brick walls," this event offers the perfect opportunity to learn how to build and preserve your family tree.

Event Details

• Date: June 19th (Juneteenth)

• Time: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM

• Location: 1100 Bagby Street, Houston, TX 77002

• Free!

About Our Partner: AAHGS Willie Lee Gay H-Town Chapter

As the only official AAHGS chapter in the state of Texas, the Willie Lee Gay H-Town Chapter is a premier 501(c)(3) non-profit organization leading the study and preservation of African American genealogy. Named in honor of legendary Houston educator and historian Willie Lee Gay, the chapter specializes in empowering the community by teaching robust historical research techniques.

The H-Towners are renowned for their community-driven preservation efforts, including:

• The Freedmen’s Bureau Indexing Project: Making vital post-Civil War records accessible to family researchers.

• The Olivewood Cemetery Project: Supporting the preservation and documentation of Houston's oldest historic Black burial ground.

• The Funeral Program Project: Digitizing and indexing local African American funeral programs to capture crucial generational data like birthplaces, parent names, and forgotten relatives.

What to Expect

• Expert Guidance: Interact with knowledgeable genealogy researchers who understand the unique challenges and pathways of African-ancestored research.

• Resource Discovery: Learn about localized tools, archival repositories, and digital resources available right here in Houston.

• Community Connection: Network with fellow history enthusiasts and share stories of resilience, discovery, and heritage.

Admission is free and open to the public. Bring your curiosity, your family stories, and your questions!

Want to dive deeper? Visit the official chapter website at www.htownaahgs.org to explore membership benefits, monthly workshops, and ongoing preservation projects.

Join us this Thursday at 6 PM for The American Revolution Experience Exhibit Grand Opening, featuring acclaimed author and speaker Michael Nolden Henderson.
Henderson’s ancestor fought under General Gálvez, and Gálvez himself personally signed the freedom papers for Henderson’s 4th-generation great-grandmother in 1779! This incredible discovery (featured on PBS!) led Henderson to become the first African American inducted into the Georgia Society Sons of the American Revolution.
Come explore the brand-new interactive exhibit of the American Revolution Experience, meet the Sons of the American Revolution Freedom Chapter, singalong with actress Kijana Wiseman.and hear a master storyteller, Henderson, bring local and national history to life. Tickets: https://www.heritagesociety.org/american-revolution...
Where: 1100 Bagby Street, Houston, TX 77002
When: This Thursday, June 18, 2026 at 6:00 PM

Click to purchase Tickets Here!

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. Juneteenth Tea Cakes are Tours are made possible by our generous sponsors - Twin Eagle, energy marketers or the fourth year in a row!

🏠 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

🗓️ Saturday, June 6, 2026, 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM

🗓️ Saturday, June 13, 2026, 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM

🗓️ Friday, June 19, 2026, 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM (Juneteenth!)

🗓️Saturday, June 20, 2026, 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM

🗓️Saturday, June 27, 2026, 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.

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.

Raise Your Glass to This!

🍻 History on Tap: Two Frontiers, One Spirit: Texas and the Basque Country

Thursday, June 11, 2026 • 6:30 PM New Magnolia Brewing Co. 1616 Bevis Street, Houston, TX 77008

Presented by The Heritage Society at Sam Houston Park

Join us for a special edition of History on Tap featuring The Basque People of France and Spain on Thursday, June 11 — 6:30 PM. Join George Boerger and his family for an illustrated, family‑led presentation exploring the language, customs, and independent spirit of the Basque people who live along the Atlantic coast and into the Pyrenees between France and Spain. Free and open to the public.

🎙️ Featured Speaker(s): The Boerger Family

About the presenters George Boerger is a fourth‑generation Texan and lifelong student of history who has traveled widely across Texas, the United States, and Europe to study regional cultures and historical sites. His interest in Basque Country grew from those travels and from family connections to France. Amelie Boerger (daughter) is the presentation’s co‑presenter and technical lead; she helped assemble the slides and will share the stage with her father. Mrs. Boerger (wife) is from France and has studied Tourism and Art History, bringing additional cultural perspective to the family’s research and images. This program is presented as a family collaboration that blends travel‑collected photographs, local observations, and contextual research to offer an accessible, personal look at Basque history and culture.

🍺 Venue & Atmosphere

Enjoy an evening of history, conversation, and community at New Magnolia Brewing Co., where craft beer and storytelling come together in a relaxed, welcoming setting.

📅 Event Details

Date: Thursday, June 11, 2026 Time: 6:30 PM Location: New Magnolia Brewing Co., 1616 Bevis Street, Houston, TX 77008 Admission: Free and open to the public

#Beer #Free #Program #SpeakerSeries #TexasHistory #HoustonHistory

Click to purchase Tickets Here!

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. Juneteenth Tea Cakes are Tours are made possible by our generous sponsors - Twin Eagle, energy marketers or the fourth year in a row!

🏠 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

🗓️ Saturday, June 6, 2026, 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM

🗓️ Saturday, June 13, 2026, 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM

🗓️ Friday, June 19, 2026, 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM (Juneteenth!)

🗓️Saturday, June 20, 2026, 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 2:30 PM

🗓️Saturday, June 27, 2026, 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.

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.

Before the Bar: Blood Feuds, Priests, and The Birth of Legal Ethics

Tickets: Before the Bar: Blood Feuds, Priests, and The Birth of Legal Ethics Tickets, Thursday, May 28  •  4:30 PM - 7 PM | Eventbrite

Presented by Archaeology Now and the Institute for Advanced Criminal Law Studies

Join us in person or on Zoom for this fascinating look at ancient legal history, featuring keynote speaker Dr. Irving Finkel, esteemed Assyriologist from the British Museum and author of "The Ark Before Noah" and "The First Ghosts."

This is a two-hour CLE presentation, of which .5 hrs is ethics. Attorneys of all practice areas are welcome, as are interested non-lawyers.

In-person attendees will be able to ask questions. Zoom attendees will unfortunately not be able to engage with speakers.

Schedule:

4:30 PM- Gather, complimentary happy hour, introductions.

5:00 PM- From Hammurabi to Harris County, Ancient Legal Foundations- Dr. Irving Finkel

5:30 PM- Customs, Codes, and Writs: Sources of Law in Ancient and Medieval Europe- Nick D. Reed

6.30 PM- Blood Feuds and How To Prevent Most of Them: Case Studies from the Icelandic Vikings- Allison Mathis

7:00 PM- Adjourn

🍽️ Lunch & Learn: Slavery, Segregation, and the Second Founding of Rice University

Thursday, May 21, 2026 • Noon The Heritage Society at Sam Houston Park

The Heritage Society welcomes Dr. W. Caleb McDaniel and Dr. Alexander X. Byrd of Rice University for a special Lunch & Learn exploring their forthcoming book, Slavery, Segregation, and the Second Founding of Rice University (Louisiana State University Press, 2025). Their research—conducted as co‑chairs of the Rice University Task Force on Slavery, Segregation, and Racial Injustice—reveals new insights into the university’s origins, its entanglements with slavery and segregation, and the long arc of racial justice work on campus.

This program also connects directly to The Heritage Society’s own landscape of history: the Nichols‑Rice‑Cherry House, relocated to Sam Houston Park, which preserves the legacy of William Marsh Rice, the university’s founder. The speakers will discuss Rice’s life, the world he inhabited, and how his legacy has been re‑examined through new archival findings.

📘 About the Program

Dr. McDaniel and Dr. Byrd will discuss:

• The historical foundations of Rice University and its ties to slavery

• How segregation shaped the university’s early decades

• The “second founding” of Rice through integration and civil rights activism

• New archival discoveries from their research for the Task Force

• How public history sites—like the Nichols‑Rice‑Cherry House—help contextualize Rice’s legacy

This session offers a rare opportunity to hear directly from the scholars leading Rice University’s most significant historical reassessment in its modern era.

🎙️ Featured Speakers

Dr. W. Caleb McDaniel

Dr. McDaniel is the Mary Gibbs Jones Professor of Humanities and Professor of History at Rice University. His research focuses on the nineteenth‑century United States, the Civil War era, slavery, abolition, and emancipation. He co‑chaired the Rice University Task Force on Slavery, Segregation, and Racial Injustice from 2019–2023.

He is the Pulitzer Prize–winning author of Sweet Taste of Liberty: A True Story of Slavery and Restitution in America (2019), which also received major awards from the Organization of American Historians. His earlier book, The Problem of Democracy in the Age of Slavery, won the Merle Curti Award and the James H. Broussard Prize. His scholarship has appeared in The New York Times, Smithsonian, The Atlantic, and leading academic journals.

McDaniel holds a PhD from Johns Hopkins University and BA/MA degrees from Texas A&M University.

Dr. Alexander X. Byrd

Dr. Byrd is Vice Provost for Access and Institutional Excellence and Associate Professor of History at Rice University. His expertise centers on Afro‑America, the African diaspora, and Black life in the Atlantic world and the Jim Crow South.

He is the award‑winning author of Captives & Voyagers, which received the Wesley‑Logan Prize in African diaspora history. His scholarship includes influential essays on the transatlantic slave trade, the nativity of Olaudah Equiano, and the social consequences of racial violence. He is also a celebrated educator, having received Rice’s George R. Brown Award for Superior Teaching four times.

Byrd earned his BA from Rice University and his PhD from Duke University.

📅 Event Details

Date: Thursday, May 21, 2026 Time: Noon Location: The Heritage Society at Sam Houston Park Admission: Free to members and $10 for non members

🍻 History on Tap: The Story of the USS Houston (CA‑30)

Thursday, May 14, 2026 • 6:30 PM New Magnolia Brewing Co. 1616 Bevis Street, Houston, TX 77008

Presented by The Heritage Society at Sam Houston Park

Join us for a special edition of History on Tap featuring Donald M. Kehn Jr., one of the nation’s leading historians on the USS Houston (CA‑30) and the U.S. Asiatic Fleet. A native Houstonian and longtime researcher of the ship, Kehn brings more than four decades of scholarship to this compelling program about one of the most storied vessels of World War II.

The USS Houston, known as “The Galloping Ghost of the Java Coast,” served as the flagship of the U.S. Asiatic Fleet and fought with extraordinary resilience during the opening months of the Pacific War. Her loss in the Battle of Sunda Strait in 1942—and the fate of her crew—remains one of the most powerful chapters in American naval history.

This program also highlights The Heritage Society’s stewardship of the USS Houston Monument, which honors the ship and the men who served aboard her.

⚓ About the Program

Don Kehn will explore:

• The USS Houston’s service in the Asiatic Fleet

• The ship’s final battle and the experiences of her crew

• New insights from decades of archival research

• How the USS Houston Survivors Association preserves this legacy

• The importance of the USS Houston Monument at The Heritage Society

Kehn’s work is known for uncovering long‑standing mysteries, correcting the historical record, and bringing forward the human stories behind the ship’s dramatic final months.

🎙️ Featured Speaker: Donald M. Kehn Jr.

Donald M. Kehn Jr. is the official historian for the USS Houston (CA‑30) Survivors Association and the official historian of the Naval Order of the United States, Texas Commandery.

An independent scholar specializing in U.S. Navy operations in the Pacific during World War II, Kehn has spent more than 40 years researching the USS Houston and the Asiatic Fleet.

He is the author of several major works, including:

• A Blue Sea of Blood (2008), which solved long‑standing mysteries surrounding the disappearance of the destroyer USS Edsall (DD‑219).

• In the Highest Degree Tragic (2017), the most comprehensive study of the Asiatic Fleet’s campaign in the Dutch East Indies.

Kehn’s research is widely respected for its depth, accuracy, and use of rare firsthand accounts. His work has provided many families with the first clear understanding of what happened to loved ones lost in the early months of the Pacific War.

🍺 Venue & Atmosphere

Enjoy an evening of history, conversation, and community at New Magnolia Brewing Co., where craft beer and storytelling come together in a relaxed, welcoming setting.

📅 Event Details

Date: Thursday, May 14, 2026 Time: 6:30 PM Location: New Magnolia Brewing Co., 1616 Bevis Street, Houston, TX 77008 Admission: Free and open to the public

#Beer #Free #Program #SpeakerSeries #TexasHistory #HoustonHistory

📺 Facebook Live! with Mister McKinney & Author Linda Dodge

Wednesday, May 6, 2026 • 7:00 PM Streaming on The Heritage Society Facebook Page

The Heritage Society continues its popular Facebook Live! series with a special conversation featuring author and Museum of Fine Arts, Houston scholar Linda Dodge. This program builds on the success of March’s Lunch & Learn, where Dodge captivated audiences with her exploration of A Museum Is Born and the influential role of Emma Richardson Cherry in shaping Houston’s early arts community.

Now, she joins Mister McKinney of Mister McKinney’s Historic Houston for an engaging virtual discussion that brings Houston’s art history directly to viewers at home.

About the Program

Linda Dodge’s research illuminates the remarkable grassroots effort that led to the founding of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. Her work highlights how teachers, civic leaders, artists, and women’s organizations—including the Public School Art League—built a museum “erected by the people, for the use of the people.”

“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.

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 Here

📅 Thursday, April 16, 2026 🕛 Noon - 1 PM

Lunch & Learn: Barry Ward on Trees for Houston and Earth Month Action

Thursday, April 16 • Noon The Heritage Society, 1100 Bagby Street HTX 77002 Celebrating Earth Month

This Earth Month, The Heritage Society welcomes Barry Ward, Executive Director of Trees for Houston, for a special Lunch & Learn on the power of urban forestry and community-driven environmental action. Ward will share insights from his decades of nonprofit leadership and discuss how tree planting transforms neighborhoods, improves public health, and builds climate resilience across Houston.

Event Overview

Trees for Houston has planted over 700,000 trees since its founding, creating shade, beauty, and cleaner air for generations of Houstonians. Barry Ward’s leadership has expanded the organization’s reach, deepened its partnerships, and brought environmental equity to underserved communities.

HISTORY ON TAP

Join The Heritage Society’s free Community Outreach Program for adults: a monthly lecture series at New Magnolia Brewing Co, located at 1616 Bevis Street. Every second Thursday of the month, expert speakers bring Houston’s rich history and culture to life in a relaxed brewery setting. Mingle with fellow history enthusiasts, enjoy craft brews, and deepen your connection to the city you love.

Raise Your Glass to This!

America 250: Beer and the American Revolution

Thursday, April 9, 2026 • 6:30 PM

Thursday, April 9, 6:30 PM

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

Grab a pint, pull up a stool, and join us for an evening where America 250 meets a perfect craft brew.

In colonial America, beer was more than a drink — it was a daily necessity and a catalyst for revolution. Because clean water was unreliable, beer was consumed by nearly everyone, turning taverns into vital community centers. These taverns became the meeting grounds where colonists exchanged news, debated British policies, and organized resistance efforts, including actions that led to the Boston Tea Party. As tea became a symbol of British taxation, locally brewed beer emerged as a patriotic alternative. During the war, beer continued to sustain both soldiers and civilians. This program explores how an everyday beverage helped fuel political debate, strengthen social networks, and support the fight for American independence.

About the Speaker Hank Deslaurier

Professor of History, Galveston College

Hank Deslaurier has been a history educator for the last 28 years in Texas and Florida. He has a keen passion for history. Deslaurier is a gilded age expert and often lectures in Galveston, most notably for the UTMB OLLI program and has been features at the Moody Mansion. He is the program coordinator at Galveston College and serves on the Board of Directors for the Houston Heritage Society.

#Beer #Free #Program #SpeakerSeries #TexasHistory #AmericanRevolution #America250