Evening of Heritage Fundraiser

Wednesday, October 21

6:30–9:00 PM

Brennan’s of Houston

3300 Smith Street, Houston, TX 77006

Join us in supporting The Heritage Society’s mission to preserve and share Houston’s history. This special Evening of Heritage features renowned Texas historian Stephen L. Hardin, Ph.D., interviewed by The Honorable Ken Wise, host of Wise About Texas.

The topic “Rats, Rancor, and Rowdy Loafers: Everyday Life and Death in Early Houston” is a vivid, immersive look at Houston in the early 1800s—when the city was a rugged, emerging settlement shaped by hardship, resilience, and unforgettable characters as highlighted in Hardin's book Texian Macabre.

This exclusive conversation offers donors and supporters a rare opportunity to experience Houston’s earliest decades through two of Texas’s most respected historical voices.

About the Speaker:

Stephen L. Hardin, Ph.D. is an award‑winning historian and one of the nation’s leading scholars of Texas and Southwestern history. A professor at McMurry University, Hardin is celebrated for his dynamic storytelling, deep archival research, and ability to bring early Texas to life with clarity, humor, and humanity. His works—including Texian Iliad and Lust for Glory—are foundational texts for understanding the Texas Revolution and frontier life. He is a sought‑after lecturer with a strong following in history circles and frequent media appearances.

About the Interviewer:

Justice Ken Wise, of the 14th Court of Appeals, is the creator and host of the acclaimed Texas history podcast Wise About Texas. Known for his energetic, accessible approach to storytelling, Justice Wise has built a statewide audience for his work highlighting the people, events, and untold stories that shaped Texas. His interviews are widely praised for their depth, accuracy, and engaging style, making him an ideal interviewer for Dr. Hardin.

About the Evening of Heritage Chairs:

Jillian Jopling, President of The Heritage Society’s Board of Directors, is a respected Houston civic leader whose commitment to culture, education, and community service has earned her recognition in multiple magazines for her leadership and impact. She serves on the board of The Heritage Society Museum at Sam Houston Park, as well as the Alley Theatre, and is a member of the Advisory Council for the Cockrell School of Engineering at The University of Texas at Austin, where she was honored as a Distinguished Alumna. Jillian and her husband, Peter McGillivray, who is also a THS board member, are longtime supporters of Houston’s cultural institutions. Together, Jillian and Peter champion preservation, education, and community engagement — bringing warmth, generosity, and vision to every project they lead.

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If you would rather purchase your tickets with a check, please fill out this FORM and return to info@heritagesociety.org.