San Marcos Designated as a Treasures Community

AUSTIN, Texas — The communities of Nacogdoches, San Marcos and Waxahachie were named the second annual recipients of the First Lady’s Texas Treasures Award during a special presentation given on February 16, 2010 by First Lady Anita Perry at the Texas Travel Industry Association’s Unity Dinner. The award, sponsored by the Texas Historical Commission (THC) and the Office of the First Lady, recognizes communities that showcase a passionate commitment to community preservation efforts through their participation in THC programs.

“We are fortunate here in Texas to have such a collection of historic towns, buildings, courthouses and sites,” said First Lady Anita Perry. “We now have six First Lady’s Texas Treasures communities, each remarkable in its own way, and each a destination sure to delight and draw more visitors with this special recognition.

The three winning communities recognize the economic benefits of researching, identifying and preserving the structures, archeological sites and landscapes that emphasize an authentic sense of Texas place by engaging citizens and visitors with those assets through events, outreach and education. The award recognizes the multifaceted preservation achievements of an entire community whose efforts utilized the THC’s various programs as well as the resources of other preservation organizations or state agencies. Each year, up to five Texas communities will be presented this award based on nominations received.

The 2010 award winners were chosen from a group of highly qualified candidates by a committee comprised of staff members from the Office of the Governor and the THC. Winning communities employed their unique resources and personalities to demonstrate sustainable preservation stewardship related to the THC’s tools and programs, while showing broad support and preservation leadership from volunteers, city officials, as well as cultural, historic and civic groups. Their efforts and accomplishments have resulted in treasures saved and heritage experiences created for the historical enhancement of all Texans.

 “These three communities represent a strong commitment to enriching the lives of visitors through the preservation of their real heritage places telling the real stories of Texas,” said THC Chairman Jon Hansen. “The efforts of the citizens of Nacogdoches, San Marcos and Waxahachie should encourage other communities to follow on their own preservation journey.”

The First Lady’s Texas Treasures Award promotes and recognizes the unique heritage experiences of Nacogdoches, San Marcos and Waxahachie through special signage and a DVD promoting the cultural resources of each community. To see video clips of 2010 and 2009 award winning communities visit the THC web site at www.thc.state.tx.us. To learn more about the award winners or how to submit an application for next year, contact April Garner with the THC’s Community Heritage Development Division at 512.463.2630 or visit www.thc.state.tx.us.

Find out more about the First Lady's Texas Treasures Award by visiting the Texas Historical Commission's website at www.thc.state.tx.us/awards/awdFrstLdyTxTrs.shtml