A Jubilee Celebrating 70 Years of Preserving Houston's History with The Heritage Society

In the heart of Houston's bustling urban landscape lies a serene enclave that whispers tales of a bygone era. The Heritage Society (THS), founded in 1954, has been the sentinel of the city's historical legacy, preserving and showcasing its vibrant past through a collection of ten historic houses nestled in Sam Houston Park. The Heritage Society's mission is to tell the diverse stories of Houston and Texas through its collections, exhibits, educational programs, and more. As a nonprofit organization, THS is dedicated to providing a tangible link to the past while fostering an inclusive narrative that celebrates the city’s multicultural heritage.

The journey of The Heritage Society began with a group of dedicated Houstonians determined to save the 1847 Kellum-Noble House from demolition. This act of preservation sparked a movement, leading to the rescue and restoration of nine additional historic buildings. These architectural treasures, now part of Sam Houston Park, serve as living monuments that chronicle the evolution of Houston from the early 1800s to the mid-1900s.

The founders of The Heritage Society were passionate preservationists who set the wheels of conservation in motion. Their names resonate through the annals of Houston's history:

• 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

• Ellen Hamilton Wilkerson

Their collective vision and dedication ensured that Houston's architectural heritage would be preserved for future generations.

Over the past 70 years, The Heritage Society has seen numerous milestones to be the forefront of historic preservation. Below are just a few-

• 1959: Nichols-Rice-Cherry House moved and restored

• 1962: Annual Candlelight Tour launched

• 1966: First gala, headed by chairs Susan Baker and Isla Reckling

• 1972: Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM)

• 1986: Museum gallery opened, enhancing public access to the rich tapestry of Houston's history

• 2021: Kellum-Noble House restoration earns Preservation Houston’s Good Brick Award.

As The Heritage Society celebrates its 70th anniversary, we remain steadfast in our mission. By embracing the stories of all Houstonians, we aim to foster a greater understanding and appreciation of the city's rich heritage. Our organization looks forward to the next 70 years, continuing to serve as a beacon of history and culture in the heart of Houston.