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.”
