About Us
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.
Mission Statement
The Heritage Society (THS) is a nonprofit organization founded in 1954 whose mission is to tell the stories of the diverse history of Houston and Texas through collections, exhibits, the arts, educational programs, film, video, and other content.
How We Started
Founded in 1954 by a number of public-spirited Houstonians to rescue the 1847 Kellum-Noble House from demolition, 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.
Our Founders
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.
Timeline
1954 Founded The Heritage Society to save the 1847 Kellum-Noble House the oldest building on its original foundation
1959 Moved and restored the 1850 Nichols-Rice-Cherry House; Took over middle section of Sam Houston Park
1960 Built the Kellum-Noble Cottage
1962 Began Annual Candlelight Tour
1963 Moved and restored the 1868 San Felipe Cottage; Took over north section of park; Began docent program
1964 Built Long Row; Executed lease agreement with City of Houston
1965 Moved and restored the 1868 Pillot House
1967 Moved and restored the 1891 St. John Church
1970 Began outreach programs
1972 Accredited by American Association of Museums
1973 Moved and restored the 1823 Old Place
1975 Received donated Scanlan Fountain and installed in park; Executed new lease agreement with City of Houston
1978 Began collections loan exhibit program
1979 Relocated Nichols-Rice-Cherry House within park
1984 Executed new lease agreement with City of Houston
1986 Built and opened museum gallery; Moved the 1905 Staiti House into Sam Houston Park
1988 Restored and opened Staiti House and gardens
1989 Rose Garden constructed
1991 Endowment fund established
1992 Received donated Neuhaus Fountain and installed in park
1993 Began Amazing Attic Sale
1994 Moved Yates House into Sam Houston Park
1995 Connally Plaza constructed and dedicated; USS Houston Monument installed and dedicated
1996 Opened Yates House
1997 Restored bandstand
1998 Installed new collection of Texas furniture; Closed Pillot House due to flooding by Tropical Storm Frances
1999 Reopened Pillot House
2000 Reached milestone - Texas furniture collection doubles in size
2001 Closed Pillot House and Old Place due to flooding by Tropical Storm Allison
2002 Moved Gulf Coast Cottage (Fourth Ward Cottage) to Sam Houston Park
2003 Relocated and reopened Old Place in middle section of park
2004 Renovated museum gallery
2005 Raised Pillot House 14 feet higher completing exterior restoration
2007 Developed 7th Grade Teachers Workshop
2008 Developed, and executed, in collaboration with HPARD and MOSE, a master plan for Sam Houston Park
2009 Renewed lease agreement with City of Houston for Sam Houston Park
2010 Moved the 1893 Baker Family Playhouse to middle section of park
2011 Restored and opened Baker Family Playhouse
2017 Closed Pillot House due to flooding by Hurricane Harvey
2018 Dedicated Mexican-American History & Culture in 20th Century Houston mural
2020 Closed from March to July due to pandemic; Completed phases I and II of 4-year remodel for Kellum-Noble House; Started Facebook LIVE shows; Started online gift shop; Offered Zoom lectures; Offered Candlelight Market as a first; Recognized for Houston Women’s Equality Day and held recreation of a processional for 100th Anniversary of Women’s Right to Vote in the park; Implemented virtual tour
2021 Renovated museum gallery made possible by the Albert and Ethel Herzstein Foundation; Received Preservation Houston’s Good Brick Award for Kellum-Noble House; Began large diversity events
2022 UNESCO designated three of our houses as part of their Enslaved People’s Route Project; Completed Phase II of Gallery Renovation of offices in Long Row; Tours make National News
2023 Valentine’s Day Express Weddings collaboration with Harris County Clerks Office results in 43 weddings and $250,000 of media time.
2024 THS celebrates its 70th Anniversary on June 4 and throughout the year. Tour collaboration with Visit Houston and Houston First brings back re-enactment tours for “From Plantation to Emancipation” Black History program.
