Please DONATE HERE and keep Houston’s history alive. Read Executive Director Alison Bell’s Year-End Letter HERE to learn more our nonprofit.
See our tours HERE. Read about our year-round Black History Tours in The New York Times HERE and view our year-round Women’s History Tours HERE on Great Day Houston. See Ginger Zee of Good Morning America do a tour with us HERE. See a video of National Hispanic Heritage Month kick off with Constellation Energy HERE.
Stories of Houston
The Heritage Society's 10 historic houses in Sam Houston Park, Houston, Texas stand as enduring monuments that not only preserve the city's history but also symbolize its cultural legacy. Anchored in the past, these architectural treasures serve as a cornerstone for the narrative of Houston's evolution, offering a tangible link between bygone eras and the unfolding future. As gateways to the past, our museum gallery, exhibits, houses, events, and collections provide a unique opportunity to delve into the rich tapestry of Houston's heritage. By exploring the stories encapsulated within their walls, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the diverse communities that have contributed to the city's vibrant mosaic. Moreover, these heritage sites play a pivotal role in shaping Houston's future by serving as catalysts for dialogue and reflection. By embracing the narratives of inclusivity and diversity that these buildings represent, Houston can forge a path towards a more equitable and harmonious tomorrow.
Tour authentically restored buildings that span the city's history from before statehood to the oil boom of the early 20th century. See furnishings that reflect the lifestyles and cultural influences of Houston's earliest residents. Enjoy fun, family-friendly activities for learning about the growth and development of the city. Hear experts tell the stories of the people who came to Houston seeking new opportunities. Experience Houston's history through exhibitions about the city's diverse population. Learn about The Heritage Society’s Museum, Historic Home Tours, Events and fascinating Houston history that lends a beautiful backdrop to our Event Venue & Facility Rentals throughout the scenic campus. We are located in Downtown Houston at 1100 Bagby Street. To see a 2025 calendar of events, head here.
New Exhibit: Coastal Cowboys Now Open!
The Heritage Society is proud to present Coastal Cowboys, a traveling exhibition from The Bryan Museum in Galveston, Texas. It unveils the overlooked saga of Texas’s Gulf Coast cowboys and their horses in both the pre, and post-Civil War eras. This groundbreaking show sheds light on a network of Texas coastal ranches that flourished long before Texas found its place on the map, revealing how these cowboys forged a distinct way of life amid sand, salt, and sea. Thank you to co-curator Jim Hodges who is a well-known cowboy, Vietnam combat vet, author/historian, and museum collections producer.
New Interactive Exhibit Showcasing Latin Artists
We are featuring an exhibit with the University of Houston that features Latin artists through an art digital board that also features our mural. Under the leadership of Dr. Pamela Anne Quiroz, Director of the University of Houston’s (UH) Center for Mexican American and Latino Studies (CMALS) launched the groundbreaking digital board, Latino cARTographies: Mapping the Past, Present, and Future of Houston’s Latino Visual Art. The exhibit is on display from Friday, April 26 to December 31, 2025.
250th Anniversary Exhibits Coming Soon!
Texas State Library and Archives Commission presents the Texas America250 Exhibit for #America250, TSLAC explores the story of the Lone Star State over the past 250 years. The exhibit highlights historically significant Texas Treasures from their collections, including records from the State Archives. It is scheduled to open on Saturday, August 23 at Happy Birthday Houston's event at 3:00 PM. Come see it for free on opening day from 3:00 - 5:00 PM at the celebration!
Stay tuned for two more exhibits in 2026 celebrating America’s 250th!
Annual Candlelight & Carols Tours with Holiday Market
Support Local Vendors and Artists and shop on Friday, December 12 (5:30 - 8:30 PM) and Saturday, December 13 (1 - 8:30 PM). This outdoor market is free to the public.
Dia de los Muertos at Sam Houston Park Nov. 1
The now 5th Annual Houston Dia de los Muertos Festival and Parade, Presented by Reliant, is an exciting tradition for the City of Houston. With this heartfelt parade, it is our mission to celebrate the living and honor our beloved. Join us on Saturday, November 1, for an evening filled with live music, beautiful procession, delicious concessions, fun arts & crafts, and so much more! 4:00 PM - 11:00 PM at Sam Houston Park, 1000 Bagby St., HTX 77002
On Sunday, November 2, from Noon - 3:00 PM, join us and the Board of Directors of DDLMUSA for a free community breakfast by La Calle Mexico City Street Food in the Connally Plaza.
An America 250 Evening Speaker Series about Spain
Join author Thomas E. Chávez on Wednesday, November 12, at 6:00 PM, as he shares his research about how Spain supported our country’s independence. Chávez was the former director of the National Hispanic Cultural Center, Albuquerque, and the former curator and director of the Palace of the Governors, Museum of New Mexico, Santa Fe. He has authored many publications and books on related topics. The evening will begin with a wine reception at The Heritage Society’s museum gallery.
Outdoor Market Book Sale: Pages of the Past
Calling all book clubs, bibliophiles, vintage collectors, and history buffs! Pages from the Past is your chance to uncover hidden gems, rare editions, and irreplaceable local lore. Shop for a cause on Saturday, November 8, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
History on Tap: Cowboy Strike of 1883
Dr. Steven L. Sewell presents "Rugged Individualists or Saddle bound Proletarians: The Texas Panhandle Cowboy Strike of 1883" on Thursday, November 13, 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. Grab a pint, pull up a stool, and join us for free program where Texas’ cowboy past meets the perfect craft brew.
Lunch and Learn “Finding Your Roots”
On Thursday, November 20, 2025, at noon, The Family History Research Center, Clayton Library present a genealogy research session just in time for family time during the holidays! Receive an overview of genealogy and discovering your family roots with the library’s resources. Members are free and non members are $10. Lunches are $13 or bring your own!
