Texas Constitution The Constitution of 1876 was the sixth and final revision of the document and it established the foundation for the law which is still in effect in Texas today. “The 1875 constitution, in part a reaction to Reconstruction, shortened terms and lowered salaries of elected officials, decentralized control of public education, limited powers of both the legislature and governor, and provided biennial legislative sessions.” The new constitution set aside one million acres of … [Read more...] about Texas History

Juneteenth “On June 19, 1865, federal authority was established in Texas when General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston.” General Granger announced the end of slavery for over 250,000 African Americans and the end of the Confederacy. We now celebrate "Juneteenth," as the declaration of emancipation, which was declared an official holiday in the state of Texas in 1980. It became a U.S. federal holiday on June 17, 2021. “Texas History Timeline.” Bullock Texas State History Museum, … [Read more...] about Texas History

Communication “Modern communication is something we all take for granted, but 19th-century Texans weren't so lucky. In 1854, the Texas and Red River Telegraph Company established service in Marshall, connecting to parts of Louisiana and Mississippi. By 1866, over 1500 miles of wire connected Texas.” “Texas History Timeline.” Bullock Texas State History Museum, www.thestoryoftexas.com/discover/texas-history-timeline. … [Read more...] about Texas History

Railroads As the United States grew, so did the need for a more reliable transportation system. Travel was difficult in Texas, and it worsened by the expansive and unforgiving terrain in the west. Businesses also needed a way to ship their goods through the expanding area. This prompted the construction of the first railroad in Texas, which opened in 1853. “Texas History Timeline.” Bullock Texas State History Museum, www.thestoryoftexas.com/discover/texas-history-timeline. … [Read more...] about Texas History

Hamilton Pool Did you know the Hamilton Pool in Austin is a natural spring? An underground river is the source and the plants in the vicinity create a lush setting. The oasis was initially covered by a limestone dome that collapsed, which revealed the spring. Now, swimmers love the clean water, incredible vegetation, and 50-foot waterfalls that keep them cool when sunbathing during the Texas heat. Tom, The Getaway. “Everything Is Better in Texas.” The Getaway, Assembly Digital Media, 17 … [Read more...] about Texas History