07/05/2026
Today, the United States of America celebrates the semi-quincentennial anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. It is a time to reflect on the courage, vision, and sacrifice that founded our nation. As families gather to celebrate Independence Day, we are reminded that America's story is the story of its people. For more than eight generations, Americans have come together in times of triumph and trial, strengthening our nation through service, perseverance, and a belief in the ideals of liberty. For more than a century, the Harris County Historical Society has been committed to preserving that story here at home. Through publications, educational programs, oral history projects, and historical research, we preserve the people, places, and events that shaped Harris County. We do not preserve buildings. We preserve the lives behind them.
Long before history was written in books, it was passed from one generation to the next through stories. Oral tradition is humanity’s oldest way of preserving history. Our oral history program continues that tradition by recording the firsthand memories of those who witnessed history themselves.
Our members share a love of history and a commitment to preserving it. Through programs such as Undertold Stories of Houston History, our Living History Interview Series, and presentations on Houston’s architecture, the Texas Revolution, and the people who shaped our city, we continue to tell stories that might otherwise be forgotten. They remind us that history is more than dates and famous names. It is the lives of ordinary people whose experiences shaped Harris County, Texas, and our nation.
As we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, we remember that our nation’s history was built not only by famous leaders, but also by countless men and women whose lives strengthened their communities and, in turn, their country. By preserving the history of Harris County, we preserve an important part of the American story.
On this Independence Day, we honor those who founded our nation and the generations who have defended its freedoms since 1776. Their sacrifices made the liberties we enjoy today possible. The Harris County Historical Society remains committed to preserving our community’s history so that these stories—and the people behind them—will never be forgotten.
On behalf of the Officers and Directors of the Harris County Historical Society, we wish you and your family a safe and memorable Fourth of July as we celebrate 250 years of American independence.
If you are not already a member, please join us https://www.harriscountyhistory.org/
Daphne Scarbrough
President
Ann Dunphy Becker
Immediate Past President
