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.

The Heritage Society buildings in 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, these buildings 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.

In essence, The Heritage Society buildings in Houston serve not only as repositories of history but also as beacons of hope, illuminating a path towards a future where the stories of all its inhabitants are celebrated and cherished.

We thank you for supporting The Heritage Society (THS) and Keeping Houston’s History Alive for future generations.  Let’s finish this year with renewed hope and ambition to continue THS as a go-to destination for families, schools, and tourists when exploring Houston. To donate, click on the green button.

Donations dated on or before December 31st may be eligible for a 2024 tax donation and donations dated January 1st and after may be eligible for a 2025 tax donation.

Working together, we will continue to preserve, promote, and celebrate Houston’s amazing history!

How your donation benefits the receivers of Houston’s History…

TOURS

  • Individual Historic House Tours (Regular History, Black History, Women's History, German History)

  • Group Historic House Tours (Regular History, Black History, Women's History, German History)

  • Visit Houston Signature Experience Tour (From Plantation to Emancipation Historic House Tour)

  • Juneteenth Tours

  • Mothers' Day Promotion for Women's History Tours

  • Halloween Tours

  • Annual Candlelight & Carols Tour with Holiday Market

  • Family Reunion Tours

  • Cell Phone Tours (self-guided, external houses, free)

  • Volunteer Docent Program

  • Art in the Parks (sculptures and monuments)

  • Historical Markers (self-guided)

TRANSPORTATIONAL TOURS

  • Houston History Bus Tours (Houston History, NHHM, Womens)

  • Bus Trips to Cities' Historical Places (Programs)

  • Houston City Bus Tours Cowboy Experience

  • Holiday Bus Tours (2023)

  • See Interesting Places (SIPs)

EXHIBITS

  • Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

  • Latino Cartographies Digital Board

  • Duncan General Store

  • Mexican American History & Culture in the 20th Century Mural

  • Ford Model T

  • Houston Postcards

  • Karankawa Exhibit

  • Exhibit Openings and Closings

  • Exhibitor Events and Educational Programs

GIFT SHOP

  • Educational Videos about Texas History

  • Books/Cards/Magnets

  • Texas Maps

  • T-Shirts (Cats, Houses)

  • Toys - Stuffed animals, Puzzles

  • Jewelry and Accessories (new and costume jewelry)

  • Home Décor and Kitchen Items

  • HTX and TX Attire and Goods (Tshirts, Baseball caps, drink tumblers, mugs)

  • Cold drinks and snacks

  • Booths at Art Car Parade and Bayou City Art Show Weekend

  • Gift Card

  • Curbside Pick Up

  • Online Store

PROGRAMS

  • School Field Trips

  • Lunch and Learns (monthly)

  • Speaker and Author Events (approx. quarterly)

  • Scouting Workshops (approx. quarterly)

  • Family Heritage Day (annually)

  • Home School (new)

  • Collaborations (AIAH, Citywide Juneteenth, other Orgs)

  • Online:  Facebook Live!  (6 Months, free program)

  • Online:  YouTube Videos of Programs

  • Teachers' Educational Workshop (2025)

  • Community Outreach: Offsite Speaking Events

  • Community Outreach: History on Tap at a Brewery

  • Community Outreach:  Booths at Library and Other Museum Festivals

  • Community Outreach:  Library and Other Museum Festivals

  • Community Outreach: Old Fashioned Toy Demo Booth at Festivals at Sam Houston Park

  • High School and College Internship Programs

OTHER EVENTS

  • National Hispanic Heritage Month TV Promotion

  • Happy Birthday Houston City and TV Promotion

  • Women's Equality Day City Promotion

  • Women's History Month TV Promotions

  • Movie in the Park with Concert (Urban Cowboy)

  • Dia de los Muertos Festival, Music, Parade

  • Pet Event with Concert

  • Support of City Events at Sam Houston Park including Health Topics and Marathons

  • Support of City Hall Events

  • Support of Downtown Houston + and Visit Houston Events

FACILITY RENTALS (Gardens, Houses, Bandstand, Parking lot, Tea Room, Gallery, Plaza, Lake, Jane Ellen’s Tree)

  • Weddings

  • Engagements

  • Valentines Express Weddings

  • Wakes

  • Church Gatherings/Events

  • Veteran Gatherings

  • Corporate Holiday Rentals

  • MOSE Corporate Picnic Type Rentals of 1000 Bagby Locations

  • MOSE Festivals Rentals of 1100 Bagby Street Locations

  • Music, Film, and Movie Shoots

MEDIA

  • Enewsletter via WordFly

  • Social Media - Collaborations, FB, IG, X, YouTube, Pinterest, Blogs

  • Traditional Media - TV segments and stories, Radio, Magazines, Newspapers, Houston First Collaboration

  • WikiPedia

  • Building Signage

  • Google Campaigns

  • Google Business Page

FUNDRAISING 

  • Gala with Silent Auction

  • Luncheon with Silent Auction

  • Evening of Heritage

  • See Interesting Places (SIPs)

  • Annual Campaign

  • Giving Tuesday

  • Kendra Scott Shopping Event

  • Annual Fund Membership

  • Membership Events such as Free Museum Exhibit Openings and Free Tours, Exhibits, and Lunch and Learns