Preserving the real places and the real stories of Texas.
  • Help preserve Texas history by supporting Friends of the Texas Historical CommissionHelp preserve Texas history by supporting Friends of the Texas Historical Commission

    Development Training 

    The Friends of the Texas Historical Commission (FTHC) coordinates development seminars and webinars geared towards volunteer leadership (board members and advisors) and staff from nonprofit organizations interested in learning more about securing philanthropic support for their organization. The trainings are suited for large and small organizations from any discipline with limited development staff, and highlight best practices while facilitating dynamic group interactions to help attendees build and strengthen their fundraising "tool-kit" so they can more effectively and sustainably achieve their mission.

    Upcoming Trainings:

    DEVELOPMENT TRAINING SERIES: Elements of Successful Philanthropy
    Building a Comprehensive and Sustainable Development Program for your Organization
    Date: The four-part series will be held November 12, 13, 19, 20
    Virtual Platform: Zoom
    REGISTER HERE (Registration available for full or individual sessions)

    Learn more!

    Congratulations to the Preservation Scholars Class of 2020!

    This summer, the FTHC placed six Preservation Scholars in internship positions with the Texas Historical Commission, and internship projects were completed in August. Students worked on projects including Historical Marker research and writing, editorial projects in the THC's Communications Division, development of quick reference guides for webinars in the THC's Museum Services Programs, and research and opportunity analysis for projects in the THC's Main Street Program. 

    Read more about their projects in the FTHC fall 2020 quarterly newsletter. Thank you to the donors who support the program and make these internships possible! 

    Special Projects

    The FTHC is currently supporting several special projects of the Texas Historical Commission. Learn more about these projects and how to get involved under our Special Projects page!

    Caddo Mounds State Historic Site Disaster Recovery

    On Saturday, April 13, 2019, a tornado devastated the THC's Caddo Mounds State Historic Site. The visitors center building was destroyed by the storm, and the Caddo Grass House is gone. Many guests at the site were injured by the storm, and one visitor lost her life.

    While the damage was extensive, the Caddo Mounds themselves, along with the site's invaluable archeological and cultural history, were left untouched.

    The Friends of the Texas Historical Commission is raising funds to rebuild the grass house, a precious structure that was a labor of love by members of the Caddo Nation and the community. Learn more about the fundraising efforts here.

    Making a Difference