THURSDAY February 26, 2026

RIVER OAKS COUNTRY CLUB

11:30 AM – 1:00 PM

American history has evolved into more than four decades of volunteer service with organizations that positively impact and advocate for historic preservation and heritage tourism. John Nau has given back to the citizens of Texas in a variety of ways, but especially with regard to Texas history, historic preservation and heritage tourism. Nau was first appointed to the Texas Historical Commission (THC) in 1993 and served as Chairman from 1995 to 2009. In 2015, Governor Greg Abbott re-appointed him to the THC as the Chairman, where he oversees the agency responsible for protecting and preserving the state’s historic resources for the use, education, enjoyment, and economic benefit of present and future generations. He also serves on the Board of Trustees of the American Battlefield Trust, reflecting his deep respect for the nation’s hallowed battlegrounds and their lasting impact on American history. From 2001 to 2010, Nau was chairman of the national Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, a position he was appointed to by President George W. Bush. The Heritage Society is honored to recognize Nau’s unwavering dedication to preserving the stories, places, and legacy of our great state and nation.

Chairs: Harriet and Truett Latimer

We are thrilled to be chairing The Heritage Society luncheon on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at River Oaks Country Club honoring John L. Nau, III with the inaugural Texas Heritage Medal. John is a businessman, entrepreneur and philanthropist. His lifelong interest in American history has evolved into more than four decades of volunteer service with organizations that positively impact and advocate for historic preservation and heritage tourism.

Our founders were preservationists of the Kellum-Noble House in 1954: Birdsall Briscoe, Charles L. and Faith P. Bybee, C.C. “Pat” Fleming, Kenneth Franzheim, Maria T. Gregory, Mary Van den Berge Hill, Ima Hogg, Harvin C. Moore, Sr., Marie Lee Phelps, Alvin S. Romansky, Mary Ellen Shipnes, and Ellen Hamilton Wilkerson. The Heritage Society has since saved an additional nine historic buildings, moved them from various locations to join the Kellum-Noble House in Sam Houston Park, and restored them to reflect their respective eras. These ten buildings, along with the Museum Gallery, serve as historic reference points and exhibition spaces for more than 23,000 artifacts that document life in Houston from the early 1800s to the mid-1900s.

Please join us for this special luncheon honoring John Nau’s unwavering dedication to preserving the stories, places and legacy of our great state and nation. Enclosed is information on sponsorship opportunities. We look forward to celebrating and honoring John with you on February 26th.