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 THS to save Kellum-Noble House
1959 Moved and restored 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 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 Pillot House
1967 Moved and restored St. John Church
1970 Began outreach programs
1972 Accredited by AAM
1973 Moved and restored Old Place
1975 Received donated Scanlan Fountain and installed in park; Executed new lease agreement
1978 Began collections loan exhibit program
1979 Relocated Nichols-Rice-Cherry House within park
1983 Opened the park to the public on weekends
1984 Executed new lease agreement with City of Houston
1986 Opened museum gallery; Moved Staiti House into Sam Houston Park
1988 Restored and opened Staiti House and gardens
1989 Rose Garden constructed
1990 Reinterpreted Pillot House
1991 Endowment fund established (still active?)
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 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 Baker Family Playhouse to middle section of park
2011 Restored and opened Baker Family Playhouse
2015 Held exhibit Throughout Houston’s GLBT History
2017 Closed Pillot House due to flooding by Hurricane Harvey
2018 Revealed Mexican-American History & Culture in 20th Century Houston mural
2018 Revived NoTsuOh Gala and included “parade” for pets
2019 Reorganized staff; Placed some events and programs on hold
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
