TEXAS PRESERVATION GUIDELINES

REMEMBERING TEXASGUIDELINES FOR HISTORICAL RESEARCH

TEXAS HISTORICAL COMMISSION

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Texans boast a unique

history. As the state

agency for historic

preservation, the Texas

Historical Commission

works with citizens

throughout the state to

identify, interpret and

preserve our heritage.

We look forward to

your contributions

to preserving Texas’

heritage.

World War l Victory Parade, Congress Avenue, Austin, 1919

TINTRODUCTION

Texans boast a unique history. As the state agencyfor historic preservation, the Texas HistoricalCommission (THC) works with citizens throughoutthe state to identify, interpret and preserve our her-itage. This publication explains the criteria, researchmethods and documentation necessary to apply foran Official Texas Historical Marker or listing in the National Register of Historic Places, programsadministered by the THC. Properties may qualify foreither or both designations, but at this time separateapplication forms are required.

OFFICIAL TEXAS HISTORICAL MARKERS

Three types of markers commemorate Texas history: 1) The Recorded Texas Historic Landmark (RTHL)honors historic properties more than 50 years oldthat merit preservation for their architectural and his-torical associations. Eligible properties include houses,commercial buildings, churches and synagogues,bridges, courthouses, schools and other institutionalfacilities. Once RTHLs are designated, THC staffreview any proposed exterior alterations.

2) Subject markers commemorate topics significantin our state’s history. Solely educational in nature,they carry no restrictions. Criteria for subject markers:■ Historic persons are deceased for at least 20 years■ Historic events occurred at least 30 years ago■ Institutions, organizations, festivals, communities,church congregations, etc. were established at least 75 years ago.

Significance within local, state, regional or nationalhistory must be demonstrated for topics commemo-rated by subject markers.

3) Historic Texas Cemetery markers commemoratehistoric cemeteries more than 50 years old that areformally designated as Historic Texas Cemeteries.Markers are not required for designated cemeteriesbut are available for purchase as an interpretive tool.Information regarding Historic Texas Cemetery designation and application requirements may berequested from the THC’s History ProgramsDivision.

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The Waco Suspension Bridge, McLennanCounty, c.1880. Symbols of past achievements,landmarks may be commemorated by historical

markers and listing in the National Register.This bridge reflects developments in

engineering technology during the late -19thcentury that coincided with Waco’s emergence

as a regional trading center.

Waco 1880

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THE NATIONAL REGISTER OFHISTORIC PLACES

The National Register of Historic Places (NR)acknowledges properties significant in American history, architecture and archeology. Buildings,structures, sites, objects and historic districts are eligible for listing if significance at the local, state or national level can be demonstrated. Like RTHLs,a property listed in the NR must be at least 50 yearsold, retain its historic appearance with few alterationsand merit preservation for its historical and architec-tural associations. For more information, see theTHC booklet, Guidelines for Listing your Propertyin the National Register of Historic Places.

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Panna Maria Cemetery,Karnes County. Historic cemeteries often survive astangible reminders of earlysettlements. They can bedesignated as Historic TexasCemeteries and under certaincircumstances may be listedin the National Register.

This distinctive grave marker represents the contributions of Polish immigrants to thesettlement of Texas during the 19th century.

Portrait, c.1910. Melissa Dora Oliver-Eakle, shown here with her daughter, built a successful business empire in the Texas Panhandle. A subject marker commemorates her significant contributions to Amarillo’s early-20th-century prosperity, including the development of a neighborhood listed as a National Register historic district. grants to the settlement of Texas dur-ing the 19th century.

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FORMULATING A RESEARCH PLAN

Before you begin writing, formulate a research plan.Applications for historical designation require documentation of the significance of the property ortopic to be commemorated. Typically, this takes theform of a well-researched narrative history based onhistoric records. Three essential steps should guideyour research project:

■ DEFINE OBJECTIVES■ CONDUCT RESEARCH■ SYNTHESIZE AND ANALYZE

We recommend you follow these steps for yourresearch project. Additional assistance may be found inthe publications listed in APPENDIX C on page 13.

DEFINE OBJECTIVES

Your objective is to document the significance ofyour property or topic. To do so, you must under-stand the relationship between it and general historicaltrends. Remember to keep things in perspective,however. You must decide what information is worthgathering, examining and analyzing. Decide howmuch depth and detail is required. Focus your efforts

on collecting information that explains the signifi-cance of your property or topic. Every fact youuncover may not be relevant. For example, in chroni-cling the history of a Lutheran congregation in Texas,a lengthy discussion of Martin Luther would detractfrom the story of the local church. Addressing theclassic questions Who? What? When? Where? andHow? may help you define your objectives.

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★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Texas Cotton Mill Company complex, McKinney, CollinCounty. Published by theSanborn Fire InsuranceCompany throughout the late-19th and early-20th centuries,Sanborn maps are invaluableresearch tools. Revealing patterns of development andbuilding evolution, they are useful to community historiansand building researchers alike. This 1920 view of one ofMcKinney’s cotton processingfacilities demonstrates thatworker housing was incorporatedinto the industrial complex.

Consider the following examples:

■ WHO?Who were the individuals (owners, occupants,builder, architect, founder, etc.) involved with the topic?

Discuss the details of their lives, including place of birth, education, military/civic service, dates ofbirth and death.

Discuss the significance of their contributions tolocal history.

■ WHAT?What was the property called at the time it was associated with the important events, institution orpersons, or when it acquired its important physicalcharacteristics?

How many buildings, structures or other resourcesmake up the property?

What are the property's historic characteristics and functions?

What is the current condition of the property, including the exterior, grounds, setting and interior?

■ WHEN?When was the property constructed, and when did it attain its current form?

Define the period of time (beginning/ending) associated with the topic.

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Fort Davis, Jeff Davis County. Drawingsby architects, builders and artists canprovide valuable insight about the historyof structures. Documented in 1965, this drawing of the officers quarters at Fort Davis guided restoration efforts.Taken from Texas Catalog: HistoricAmerican Building Survey.ants to the set-tlement of Texas during the 19th century.

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Freedman’s Town HistoricDistrict, Houston, HarrisCounty. This view reveals thecohesive architectural charac-teristics of the historicallyAfrican American neighborhoodthat evolved in Houston’s Fouth Ward during the late-19th and early-20th centuries.Documentation helped preservationists develop proto-types or compatible new construction in this NationalRegister Historic district.H

ouston

1920

When did changes occur, and how have they affectedthe property’s historic integrity?

What was happening at this time in the community,region, state or nation that affected the topic?

■ WHERE?Describe the sites associated with the topic, including former locations.

Describe the property’s location, size and boundaries.

Relate the property to its surrounding community or landscape.

■ HOW?What were the underlying causes/patterns of development associated with the topic?

How is the topic significant in community, regional or state history?

CONDUCT RESEARCH

Use primary and secondary sources to help constructthe history of your topic. Background reading identi-fies major themes that affected the topic. Decidewhich questions need to be answered based on thisbackground reading. If necessary, alter, discard oradd questions as the project proceeds.

Identify sources of historical information to answerresearch questions. See APPENDIX A on page 10for the kinds of resources available. You can findinformation in the collections of owners, neighborsor community libraries. Contact all organizations andinstitutions holding source materials and discuss yourproject with the staff, as this often may elicit researchleads and additional information. Check publicrecords such as deeds, mortgages, surveys and mapsfor relevant information. Make inquiries of past owners, local historians and other people with specialknowledge of the research topic.

Deed research need not be exhaustive and should befocused on the property or topic you are researching.Historic photographs are excellent sources of infor-mation. Descendants of builders or occupants areusually good sources for early photographs. A growingnumber of local history collections maintain photo-graphic archives.

Do not overlook the site of a building or event as asource of information. Walk through the property andgather information that describes it, noting distinctivefeatures and obvious changes and alterations. Try togain an understanding of the relationship betweenbuildings and their settings. Compare architecturalcharacteristics with other buildings in the communityof similar age and style. Note interior materials androom arrangements.

Consistently record relevant information as well asits source. Good notes and proper citations forresearch materials will facilitate the next step in theresearch process: synthesizing and analyzing the facts.

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Guardian Angel CatholicChurch, El Paso. Researchin the congregationalarchives turned up invaluable primary sourcematerial, including this c. 1930 photograph of a historically Hispanic congregation’s house of worship. It is essential toconsult such records whencompiling the narrative history.

El Paso 1930

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Goliad CountySYNTHESIZE AND ANALYZE

This step involves organizing and analyzing the collected information. Constructing an outline willhelp organize concepts and develop themes related to the research topic. Summarize the information collected and analyzed. Consider whether yoursources present unbiased information about your topic.For instance, a family history written by a familymember may not include significant information suchas divorces, legal difficulties, medical problems, etc.Note important patterns, events, persons, architecturaltypes or styles and cultural values relevant to thetopic. Consider trends in area settlement and development, aesthetic and artistic values embodiedin the architecture and the specific physical charac-teristics of a property. Describe its location and current condition.

Appropriate background information includes a discussion of the area’s geography, settlement patterns and the related social and cultural environ-ment. Examine how natural features and naturalresources (climate, terrain, soil conditions, waterways)shaped transportation routes, commerce, industry,immigration and settlement patterns. Research historic patterns of community or regional growth

as they relate to the topic, noting characteristics suchas population density and patterns of land use.

In analyzing the significant contributions of people,focus on their major achievements and how theyinfluenced life in the region, state or nation. Evaluatethe role of the individual in spreading distinctive culture, religion or philosophy in a geographical area.The individual’s contributions should be explainedand documented as fully as possible.

In addition to gathering relevant contextual informa-tion as outlined above, evaluating an architecturallysignificant property involves establishing the construction date, identities of people associated withthe property and, for businesses or institutions, itsvarious names. Note the building’s relationship totypes, styles, time periods and methods of construc-tion. Identify the contributions of principal architects,landscape architects, artists, builders or designers.Examine the evolution and distinguishing features of the artisan’s work that relate to this property.Consider the impact of architectural characteristicssuch as scale, proportion, materials, workmanship,stylistic details, spatial arrangement, constructiontechniques and aesthetic qualities.

Reed-McCampbell-Wiess Ranch complex,Goliad County. This site plan shows the relationship betweenthe main house and thevarious outbuildingsthat were necessary tosustain a historicranching operation.Developed during thelate-19th and early-20thcenturies, the entirecomplex was designateda Recorded TexasHistoric Landmark in 1991.

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WRITING THE HISTORY

The key element in applying for historical recogni-tion is a narrative history that demonstrates historicalsignificance. This research paper must be complete,orderly, concise and fully documented.

Start at the beginning. Tell the history of the topic orproperty in chronological order. Weave in generalreferences to community, regional, state or nationalhistory as they relate to the topic under considera-tion. Discuss significant individuals, events andorganizations that directly affected the history of thetopic or property. Discuss forces that shaped its evolution, such as patterns of development or familygrowth. In writing the narrative history, continue toanalyze facts, clarify themes and demonstrate signifi-cance. Pay attention to detail, and double check original research sources as necessary throughout the writing process.

Your paper should answer the classic questionsWho? What? When? Where? and How? Answer thequestions that helped you define your objectives. It may be helpful to have someone not associatedwith the project read your paper to see if they under-stand the significance of your topic. Have you adequately explained aspects such as how a propertydeveloped at a particular site or how an event ortopic was important to the community? Have youconvinced the reader the topic or property meritsofficial recognition? Did you bring the topic up todate and include its full history?

DOCUMENTATION

The use of reliable sources and careful citation areessential to prepare an acceptable history for a markerapplication or National Register nomination. Consultdifferent types of sources during the course ofresearch and, whenever possible, consult primarysource material.

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Port Isabel 1910Point (Port) Isabel, Cameron County. Historic photographs often document dramatic changes in a community. In this c. 1910 photographof Point Isabel it is clear the railroad has supplanted earlier methods of shipping, represented by the lighthouse in the background.

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The use of poorly documented secondary sourcesmay inadvertently perpetuate erroneous information.Primary sources include such records as contempora-neous newspaper accounts, diaries, meeting minutes,legal documents and deeds or census records. Oralhistories collected from authoritative sources are alsovaluable research tools if properly documented.

Facts that cannot be assumed to be common knowl-edge should be documented with a reference note.Such facts include important dates, events and detailsthat directly relate to the topic or property being considered for designation. Any claim of uniqueness(for example, earliest, first, oldest, only, largest, etc.)must be accompanied by factual documentation froman authoritative and unbiased source.

Reference notes and bibliographic citations should be presented so that the reader can go directly to thesources of information. Although notes and biblio-graphic citations include similar information, theyserve different purposes. Reference notes informreaders of the precise location (date, volume andpage number of a deed record) of a fact within thesource. Bibliographies provide a list and the locationfor all sources consulted, even if they are not specifically cited in the narrative.

The content of a reference note is more importantthan its form or placement (at the foot of the page, at the end of the document or in parentheses withinthe narrative). For additional assistance in preparing reference notes and bibliographies, please consult the “Documenting Local History” information sheetavailable upon request from the THC HistoryPrograms Division or style manuals such as Turabian'sA Manual for Writers of Term Papers, Theses, andDissertations or The Chicago Manual of Style listedon page 14 in APPENDIX C of this guide.

ATTACHMENTS

Photographs, floor plans, site plans and maps are asimportant as written records in documenting historicproperties. Invaluable for the information they convey,historic photographs must be submitted with the documentation of a building under consideration forRTHL or NR designation. In addition, current blackand white photographs should illustrate all exteriorelevations, noteworthy details and streetscapes in asimple and direct manner. Main rooms and notableinterior features also should be photographed. Try to

reproduce views of the property as they appear inhistoric photographs.

The following vantage points are recommended tofully document the building:

■ The main facade■ A view showing front and side elevation■ A view showing rear and opposite side elevations■ Building details such as front entrance, typical window, cornerstone, chimney, roof dormersand trim■ Outbuildings such as garage, barn, shed■ The context — the building in its surroundings

Remember to label the backs of all photographslightly with a soft lead (#1) pencil or with an archivalmarker. Indicate the subject of the photo, address,county and state, photographer’s name, date of photoand direction of view.

Floor plans showing the historic arrangement ofrooms, as well as subsequent alterations and additions,enable the reviewer to visualize the evolution of ahistoric property. In addition, a site plan of the property reveals the relationship of a building to itsimmediate surroundings. A site plan should includethe footprint of all buildings, fences, driveways,wells, major vegetation, etc. Demonstrate the impor-tance of a property and its place in history with a city or county map showing how the property relates to the community around it. Simple sketches are sufficient.

CONCLUSION

We hope the tools and strategies presented in thisguide are helpful. You may also rely on the expertiseand experience of your county historical commissionfor guidance with your project. The THC staff isavailable for further assistance. We look forward toyour contributions to preserving Texas’ heritage.

www.thc.state.tx.us

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APPENDIX A: SOURCES OFINFORMATION

When researching a historic topic, both primary sources and secondarysources should be used. Primary sourcesmight include original writings andarchival materials. Secondary sourcessuch as published histories also shouldbe consulted. The following list suggeststhe types of records to consider inresearching and the kinds of informationthey reveal. For further guidance, see NR Bulletin — Researching aHistoric Property for a complete guideto research materials and location of examples.

Government Records� Municipal (building permits, minutesof official meetings, ordinances, taxrecords)�Contracts (abstracts of title, courtrecords, deeds, probate records, taxrecords, mechanics liens)� State (land records, homestead records,mineral rights records, transportationrecords)� Federal (census)�Military (pension records, biographicalinformation)

Institutional Records� Cemetery (family relationships, birthand death dates)� Church (biographical information onbirth, death, marriage; congregationalrecords)� School (biographical information,building information, social history)� Fraternal (membership information,dates, building information)

Corporate Records� Ledgers, client files, advertisements,mortgages

Published Histories� County (information on buildings,people, institutions, events)� Community (information on buildings,people, institutions, events)� Business (commercial trends, economicbase of community)� Fraternal (building information, socialhistory)

Architectural Sources� Drawings (architect/builder, originalappearance, date, specifications)

� Publications (information on style and date, biographies of architects)� Pattern books (residential, agricultural,commercial)

Family Papers� Deeds (ownership, property value,associated improvements)� Letters and diaries (biographicalinformation, building information,social and economic history)� Photographs (biographical information,building information)� Genealogical information (familyrelationships)� Estate records (dates, building infor-mation, transfers of land not recordedby deeds)

Directories and Gazettes� City directories (addresses, approxi-mate dates, occupations)� Business directories (addresses,images of building, approximate dates)� Social directories (biographical information)� Rural directories (trading connections,farm locations)

Maps and Plats� Sanborn maps (plans, dates of con-struction, materials, settlement patterns)� Bird’s Eye View maps (building information, settlement patterns,natural features)� Property and subdivision plats (build-ing hierarchies, dates, settlement patterns)� Tourist guides (dates, recreationhabits, histories)� Landscaping layouts (land usechanges, outbuildings, agricultural orgarden history)

Photographs and Printed Images� Family photographs (biographicalinformation, building evolution, land-scape changes)� Postcards (biographical information,building evolution, landscape changes)

Newspapers and Journals� Advertisements (owner information,dates, building information, neighbor-hood development)� Society pages (biographical informa-tion on civic leaders, institutional history)� Obituaries (biographical information)� Articles (significant local events, economic history, social history, build-ing information)

Oral Histories� Minority history, social history, busi-ness history, building evolution and uses

The Building Itself (for NR andRTHLs)� Comparative information with otherbuildings, evidence of changes andevolution, construction techniques, wall paper and paint from historic periods, hardware

APPENDIX B: RESEARCH COLLECTIONS

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT

National Archives & RecordsAdministration(Archives I)7th St. & Pennsylvania Ave. NWWashington, DC 20408202/501-5400 public reference information202/501-5410 genealogy informationwww.nara.gov

National Archives at College Park(Archives II)8601 Adelphi Rd.College Park, MD 20740-6001301/713-6800www.nara.gov

National Archives Southwest Region501 W. Felix St., Bldg. 1P.O. Box 6216Fort Worth, Texas 76115-0216817/334-5525www.nara.govHoldings focus on historic records offederal agencies in Texas, Arkansas,Louisiana, and Oklahoma; complete setof U.S. census on microfilm.

Lyndon Baines Johnson Library2313 Red RiverAustin, TX 78705512/916-5136www.lbjlib.utexas.eduHoldings focus on materials relating tothe life of President Johnson andAmerican politics from the 1930sthrough the 1970s.

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STATE GOVERNMENT

General Land OfficeStephen F. Austin State Office Building1700 N. Congress Ave.Austin, TX 78701-1495512/463-5277www.glo.state.tx.usHoldings focus on Spanish, Mexicanand Republic of Texas land grants.

Texas Historical Commission Library1510 N. Congress Ave.P.O. Box 12276Austin, TX 78711512/463-5753www.thc.state.tx.us/main.thc/library.htmlHoldings include Texana, museum studies and heritage tourism book collection, archeology reports, historicalmarker application files, NationalRegister nomination files, slides and photographs.

Texas State Library & Archives1201 Brazos St.P.O. Box 12927Austin, TX 78711-2927512/463-5426www.tsl.state.tx.usHoldings focus on materials relating to the history of Texas and its governments, such as Texas militaryrecords (including Republic of Texas,Texas Ranger and Civil War service and pension records), election records,governors’ papers, newspapers, citydirectories, photographs, books relatingto Texas communities and more.

UNIVERSITIES

Institute for Oral History Baylor UniversityP.O. Box 97271Waco, TX 76798-7271254/710-3437www.baylor.edu/Oral_History/Holdings focus on oral history interviewsin the areas of ethnic, religious andbusiness history.

Texas Collection Baylor UniversityP.O. Box 97142Waco, TX 76798254/710-3437www.baylor.edu/Library/Texas/Holdings focus on Texas history, withan emphasis on transportation, religion,education and ethnic groups.

Texas A&M University – CommerceJames G. Gee LibraryP.O. Box 3011Commerce, TX 75429-3011903/886-5718http://multimedia.tamu-commerce.edu/library/arc.htmHoldings focus on oral history in theareas of railroads, African Americans,cotton and medicine in East Texas.

John B. Coleman LibraryPrairie View A&M UniversityPrairie View, TX 77446936/857-2012www.tamu.edu/pvamu/library/index.htmlHoldings focus on the history of educat-ing African Americans in Texas and thehistory of the Agricultural ExtensionService.

Woodson Research CenterFondren Library MS44Rice University6100 South Main St.P.O. Box 1892Houston, TX 77251-1892713/348-2586www.rice.edu/Fondren/WoodsonHoldings focus on individuals influentialin the history of Houston and the university.

DeGolyer LibrarySouthern Methodist UniversityP. O. Box 750396Dallas, TX 75275-0396214/768-2012www.smu.edu/cul/degolyerHoldings focus on history of theAmerican West, with an emphasis onrailroads, business, mining, land development, agriculture and ranching.

Special Collections Department (East Texas Research Library)Ralph W. Steen LibraryStephen F. Austin State University P.O. Box 13055 SFA StationNacogdoches, TX 75962-3055936/468-4100http://libweb.sfasu.edu/etrc/etrchome.htm#collectHoldings focus on the history of life,culture and economy in East Texas,with a special emphasis on forestry.

Archives of the Big BendBryan Wildenthal Memorial LibrarySul Ross State UniversityP.O. Box C-149Alpine, TX 79832

915/837-8388http://libit.sulross.eduHoldings focus on the history of the Big Bend region, with emphasis onranching, mining, small businesses anddomestic life between 1870 and 1930.

Heartman Negro CollectionTexas Southern University 3100 CleburneHouston, TX 77004713/313-7149Holdings focus on African Americanheritage in Texas.

John E. Conner MuseumTexas A&M University – Kingsville905 W. Santa Gertrudis Ave.Kingsville, TX 78363512/593-2810www.tamuk.edu/museum/index.html Holdings focus on the history of theBrush Country, with an emphasis on the Spanish and Mexican heritage of the region.

Cushing Memorial Library,University Archives Texas A&M UniversityCollege Station, TX 77843-5000979/845-1951http://library.tamu.edu/cushing Holdings focus on the history ofagriculture, technology and politics of Texas.

Southwest CollectionSpecial Collections Archives BuildingTexas Tech UniversityP.O. Box 41041Lubbock, TX 79409-1041806/742-3749www.lib.ttu.edu/swc/ Holdings focus on the history of theAmerican Southwest, with an emphasison ranching, oil and cotton.

Blagg-Huey LibraryTexas Woman's UniversityP.O. Box 425528Denton, TX 76204940/898-3751www.twu.edu/library/about.htm Holdings focus on women and Texashistory.

Local History Collection/SpecialCollectionsVictoria College/Univiversity ofHouston at Victoria 2602 N. Ben JordanVictoria, TX 77901

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361/570-4176http://lois.vic.uh.edu/ Holdings focus on history of Victoriaand surrounding counties.

University ArchivesA.M. Willis Jr. LibraryUniversity of North Texas P.O. Box 305190Denton, TX 76203-5190940/565-2413www.library.unt.edu/ Holdings focus on history of Texas and the Southwest, with an emphasison business records.

Division of Special CollectionsUniversity of Texas at Arlington702 College St. P.O. Box 19497Arlington, TX 76019-0497817/272-3393http://libraries.uta.edu/speccoll/ Holdings focus on Texas and South-western history, politics, cartographyand an extensive North Texas photography collection.

Alexander Architectural ArchiveBattle HallThe General LibrariesP.O. Box PUniversity of Texas at AustinAustin, TX 78713-8916512/495-4621www.lib.utexas.edu/libs/APL/AAA/index.html Holdings focus on all aspects of thework of architects in Texas and acrossthe nation.

The Center for American HistorySid Richardson Hall 2.101University of Texas at AustinAustin, TX 78712512/495-4515www.cah.utexas.eduHoldings focus on the historical devel-opment of Texas, the American Southand Southwest and the university.

Humanities Research Center LibraryUniversity of Texas at Austin21st and Guadalupe StreetsP.O. Drawer 7219Austin, TX 78713-7219512/471-9119www.hrc.utexas.edu Holdings focus on English, French and American literary history, the history of science, photography and theater arts.

Department of Special Collections University of Texas at El PasoEl Paso, TX 79968-0582915/747-5683http://libraryweb.utep.edu/ Holdings focus on the history of El Pasoand surrounding region, with an empha-sis on the Mexican Revolution of 1910.

Panhandle-Plains Historical MuseumResearch CenterWest Texas A&M University2401 4th Ave.WTAMU Box 60967Canyon, TX 79016806/651-2244www.wtamu.edu/museum/research.ctr.html Holdings focus on the settlement anddevelopment of the Texas Panhandle.

REGIONAL

Department of PhotographsAmon Carter Museum3501 Camp Bowie Blvd.Fort Worth, TX 76101-2695817/738-1933www.cartermuseum.org/photography_set.htmlHoldings focus on photography in theAmerican West.

Daughters of the Republic of TexasLibraryThe AlamoP.O. Box 2599San Antonio, TX 78299210/225-1391www.drtl.org Holdings focus on the history of Texas,with an emphasis on the Spanish andMexican colonial, Republic and early statehood periods.

Institute of Texan Cultures801 South Bowie St.San Antonio, TX 78205-3296210/458-2300www.texancultures.utsa.edu/main/ Holdings focus on general Texas historyemphasizing ethnic history, with anextensive photo archive.

RELIGIOUS

Catholic Archives of Texas1600 North Congress Ave.P.O. Box 13124Austin, TX 78711512/476-6296www.onr.com/user/cat

Holdings focus on the history ofCatholic parishes throughout Texas andthe Southwest.

Archives of the Episcopal Church606 Rathervue PlaceP.O. Box 2247Austin, TX 78768512/472-6816www.episcopalarchives.org Holdings focus on the records of theEpiscopal Church throughout the U.S.

Texas Lutheran Church ArchivesTexas Lutheran University1000 W. Court St.Seguin, TX 78155-5999830/372-8100Holdings focus on the Texas synods of the Lutheran Church

LOCAL

Austin History CenterAustin Public Library810 GuadalupeP.O. Box 2287Austin, TX 78701512/499-7480www.ci.austin.tx.us/library/lbahc.htm Holdings focus on the history of Austinand Travis County.

Tyrrell Historical Library695 Pearl St.P.O. Box 3827Beaumont, TX 77701409/833-2759Holdings focus on the history ofBeaumont and the region, with anemphasis on genealogical information.

Corpus Christi Central PublicLibraryLocal History Collection805 ComancheCorpus Christi, TX 78401361/880-7030www.library.ci.corpus-christi.tx.us/local-his/lh.htm Holdings focus on the history of the cityand Nueces County, with an emphasison family, municipal and county records.

Dallas Historical SocietyResearch Center Library and ArchivesHall of State, Fair ParkP.O. Box 150038Dallas, TX 75315-0038214/421-4500www.startext.net/interact/how.htm

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Holdings focus on the history of Dallasand North Central Texas.

Texas/Dallas History & ArchivesDivisionDallas Public Library1515 Young St.Dallas, TX 75201214/749-4146www.texasashf.org/unionguide/D/txdalhist.html Holdings focus on the history of thecity and Dallas County, with an emphasis on the 20th century.

Genealogy & Local HistoryDepartmentFort Worth Public Library500 W. 3rdFort Worth, TX 76102-7305817/871-7740www.fortworthlibrary.org/genlhst.htm Holdings focus on history of the cityand region.

Rosenberg Library2310 SealyGalveston, TX 77550409/763-8854www.rosenberg-library.org Holdings focus on materials dealingwith Texas as a Republic and the history of Galveston and the upper Gulfcoast during the 19th and 20th centuries,including extensive information on immigration. $5 search fee.

Houston Metropolitan ResearchCenterHouston Public Library500 McKinneyHouston, TX 77002713/236-1313www.hpl.lib.tx.us/hmrc.html Holdings focus on materials relating tothe historic development of the city and region.

Clayton Genealogical LibraryHouston Public Library5300 CarolineHouston, TX 77004-6896713/284-1999www.hpl.lib.tx.us/clayton

Fort Concho Library & Archives630 S. OakesSan Angelo, TX 76903915/655-4442www.fortconcho.com Holdings focus on the history of thefort, San Angelo and Tom Green

County prior to 1900, with emphasis on Hispanics, African Americans andNative Americans.

San Antonio Public Library600 SoledadSan Antonio, TX 78205201/207-2500www.sat.lib.tx.us/Holdings focus on the city andthe region.

San Antonio Conservation SocietyLibrary107 King William St.San Antonio, TX 78204-1399210/224-6163www.saconservation.orgHoldings focus on the history of San Antonio and Bexar County and the region

Also check for sources of local history and genealogical informationat county courthouses, local museums, college libraries, religious institutions and local history collections at public libraries.

APPENDIX C: ANNOTATED BIBLIOGRAPHY

TECHNICAL BRIEFS AVAILABLE THROUGH THE TEXAS HISTORICALCOMMISSION

Texas Historical Commission. OfficialTexas Historical Markers: Guidelinesand Application Form. Outlines the criteria and policies guiding applicationfor a state marker.

Texas Historical Commission.Preserving Historic Cemeteries: Texas Preservation Guidelines.Explains technical issues related topreservation of cemeteries.

Texas Historical Commission. HistoricTexas Cemetery Designation Guidelinesand Application Form. Outlines thecriteria and policies guiding designationof historic cemeteries.

Texas Historical Commission.Fundamentals of Oral History: Texas Preservation Guidelines. Offers

practical advice on conducting oral history interviews.

Texas Historical Commission.Guidelines for Listing yourNeighborhood in the National Registerof Historic Places. Step-by-step instructions.

Texas Historical Commission.Guidelines for Listing your Property inthe National Register of Historic Places.Step-by-step instructions.

U.S. Department of the Interior.National Park Service. How to Apply theNational Register Criteria forEvaluation. Technical guide to evaluat-ing the significance of properties nominated to the NR.

U.S. Department of the Interior.National Park Service. How to Completethe National Register RegistrationForm. Technical guide to applying for NR listing.

U.S. Department of the Interior.National Park Service. Researching aHistoric Property. Informative introduc-tion to basic sources and techniques for collecting data to nominate propertiesto the NR.

U.S. Department of the Interior.National Park Service. PreservationBriefs. A useful series of pamphletsdealing with technical problems inpreservation such as log buildings,adobe and historic signs. Available on the web at:www2.cr.nps.gov/tps/index.htm

RESEARCH GUIDES

Butchart, Ronald E. Local Schools.(1986) Published by AmericanAssociation for State and Local History(AASLH) as part of the Nearby HistorySeries*; provides guidance in exploringthe history of education in the reader’scommunity.

Danzer, Gerald A. Public Places. (1987)Published by AASLH as part of theNearby History Series; provides guidancein exploring the history of monuments,public buildings, streets and parks in thereader’s community.

14

Felt, Thomas E. Researching, Writing,and Publishing Local History. (1981)Published by AASLH; a resourcefulguide with advice of historical inquiry,documentation, sources of information,and design and production of works on local history.

Howe, Barbara J. et al. Houses andHomes. (1987) Published by AASLHas part of the Nearby History Series;provides guidance in exploring the history of residences in the reader’scommunity.

Kerr, K. Austin et al. Local Businesses.(1990) Published by AASLH as part of the Nearby History Series; providesguidance in exploring the history ofcommercial enterprises in the reader’scommunity.

Kyvig, David E. and Myron A. Marty.Exploring the Past Around You. (1982)Published by AASLH as part of the Nearby History Series; provides guidance in exploring the historyaround the reader.

Light, Sally. House Histories: a Guideto Tracing the Genealogy of YourHome. (1989) A very helpful introduc-tion to the complete process of lookingat a house and researching its past.

Merritt, Carole. Historic BlackResources. (1984) A handbook for the identification and documentation of historic African American propertiesin Georgia that contains informationrelevant to similar efforts in Texas.

National Historic Publications andRecords Commission. Directory ofArchives and Manuscript Repositoriesin the United States. (1988)Informative descriptions of holdings ofhistorical research materials organizedby location.

Texas Historical Commission.Researching Military History.Offers advice regarding referencessources and repositories.

Turabian, Kate L. A Manual forWriters of Term Papers, Theses, andDissertations. (1996) An authoritativeguide to presentation of documentationin research papers.

University of Chicago Press. TheChicago Manual of Style. (2001) An authoritative guide to presentationof documentation in research papers.

Wind, James P. Places of Worship.(1990) Published by AASLH as part ofthe Nearby History Series; providesguidance in exploring the history ofreligious congregations in the reader’scommunity.

*Most AASLH research guides areavailable through your local library or from AASLH, 1717 Church St.,Nashville, TN 37203-2991. Onlineordering at www.aaslh.org

BOOKS

Alexander, Drury Blakely. TexasHomes of the 19th Century (1966) The standard reference on houses ofthe period.

Blumenson, John. Identifying AmericanArchitecture (1981 rev. ed.) A guide tocommon architectural styles.

Burns, John A., ed. Recording HistoricStructures. (1989) An informativeguide to the full range of techniques fordocumenting historic properties.

Ching, Francis D.K. A VisualDictionary of Architecture (1997). A lavishly illustrated technical and stylistic guide.

Dean, Jeff. Architectural Photography.(1982) Informative guide with easy to follow technical advice.

Fire Insurance Maps in the Library of Congress: Plans of North AmericanCities and Towns Produced by theSanborn Map Co. (1981) Lists all theSanborn maps ever produced, a valuableresearch tool for documenting the evolution of settlement patterns in communities, as well as changes to individual buildings.

Gottfried, Herbert and Jan Jennings.American Vernacular Design,1870–1940: an Illustrated Glossary.(1985) Traditional American architec-ture explained in basic detail.

Guide to Genealogical Research in theNational Archives. (1982) Best expla-nation of census information.

Harris, Cyril M., ed. Historic ArchitectureSourcebook. (1977) Excellent dictionaryof historic architectural terms.

Henry, Jay C. Architecture in Texas1895–1945. (1993) Social history ofTexas architecture, including publicbuildings and residential design.

Howard, Hugh. How Old is This House?(1989) Help for the beginner, includingstylistic information, construction detailsand research pointers.

Jakle, John A., et al. Common Houses in America’s Small Towns: the AtlanticSeaboard to the Mississippi Valley.(1989) Academic study of vernacularforms useful for its parallels to Texas.

Jordan, Terry. Texas Graveyards: aCultural Legacy. (1982) A scholarlyinvestigation of the cultural traditions of cemeteries in Texas.

Longstreth, Richard. The Buildings ofMain Street. (rev. ed. 2000) A usefulguide to the history of American commercial architecture.

Maddex, Diane, ed. All About OldBuildings: the Whole PreservationCatalog. (1985) Excellent reference forsources of information and products.

McAlester, Virginia and Lee. A FieldGuide to American Houses. (1984) A comprehensive and heavily illustratedguide; possibly the best general intro-duction to architectural history. Theauthors, who are from Dallas, rely extensively on examples of buildings in Texas.

Phillips, Steven J. Old-House Dictionary:an Illustrated Guide to AmericanDomestic Architecture. (1983) A handyguide to terms that includes informativeillustrations, cross references and a listof resources.

Robinson, Willard B. Gone from Texas.(1981) An interesting history of thestate’s lost architectural heritage.

Roth, Leland. A Concise History ofAmerican Architecture (1979). A goodoverview of major architectural movements in the U.S.

15

Stephens, A. Ray. Historical Atlas ofTexas. (1989) Graphic presentation ofinformation about historical and cultural geography patterns in our state.

Texas State Historical Association. The New Handbook of Texas. 6 vols(1996) The standard reference work onTexas history. Also available online athttp://tsha.utexas.edu/handbook/online/.

Upton, Dell. America’s ArchitecturalRoots. (1986) An informative discussion of the contributions made byethnic groups to our built environment.

Walker, Lester. American Shelter: an Illustrated Encyclopedia of theAmerican Home. (1981) An illustratedcompendium of styles combined withcultural and geographical information.

Whiffen, Marcus. AmericanArchitecture Since 1780: A Guide tothe Styles (1992 rev. ed.) A guide tocommon architectural styles.

TEXAS REGIONALARCHITECTURAL GUIDES

These city and regional architecturalguides are well illustrated and featuremaps, photographs and information onspecific buildings, neighborhoods and architects:

Carson, Chris & William McDonald. A Guide to San Antonio Architecture.(1986)

Fox, Stephen & Ellen Beasley.Galveston Architectural Guidebook.(1996)

Fox, Stephen, et. al. Houston, AnArchitectural Guide. (1990)

Fuller, Larry Paul (ed.) AIA Guide toDallas (1999)

PERIODICALS

Historic Preservation. Informativearticles on preservation issues published bimonthly by the NationalTrust for Historic Preservation.

Nineteenth Century. Emphasizing decorative arts of the Victorian era,this periodical is published by theVictorian Society in America.

Old House Journal. Perhaps the bestperiodical offering practical advice forthe owner of a historic house; regularlypresents historical profiles, researchtips, restoration guidance, landscapingsuggestions and preservation productsources.

Preservation News. Newsletter providescurrent information from the field ofpreservation published bimonthly by theNational Trust for Historic Preservation.

SAH Journal. The Society ofArchitectural Historians publishes thisquarterly containing scholarly articlesand book reviews on architectural history.

Southwestern Historical Quarterly.Published by the Texas State HistoricalAssociation, provides scholarly articleson the history of Texas and theSouthwest.

VAF Newsletter. Published by theVernacular Architecture Forum; providesinformation on current research intocommon building types and includes anextensive bibliography.

Winterthur Portfolio. Published by theWinterthur Museum; contains informa-tion about material culture, focusing onhistoric furniture and interiors.

This project was funded in part through a HistoricPreservation Fund grant from the National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, as admin-istered by the Texas Historical Commission.

The contents and opinions, however, do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of theDepartment of the Interior, nor does the mention of trade names or commercial products constituteendorsement or recommendation by the Department of the Interior.

This program receives federal funds from theNational Park Service Regulations of the U.S.Department of the Interior strictly prohibit unlawfuldiscrimination in departmental Federally AssistedPrograms on the basis of race, color, national origin, age or handicap. Any person who believes he or she has been discriminated against in any program, activity or facility operated by a recipient of federal assistance should write to:

Director, Equal Opportunity Program, U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service, P.O. Box 37127,Washington, D.C. 20013-7127.

P.O. BOX 12276, AUSTIN, TX 78711-2276PHONE 512/463-5853 • FAX 512/475-3122

www.thc.state.tx.us

THC/Revised 9/2001

Cover photo: World War 1 Victory Parade, Congress Avenue, Austin, 1919. The cover illustration documents the historic appearance of Congress Avenue

in Austin. Buildings shown in the photograph havebeen honored with both National Register and

Recorded Texas Historic Landmark designations. The photograph also suggests the symbolic

importance of the avenue as Texas’ Main Street, commemorated by a subject marker.

Photo courtesy of Austin History Center, #C00208.

P.O. BOX 12276, AUSTIN, TX 78711-2276PHONE: 512/463-6100 • FAX 512/475-4872

www.thc.state.tx.us

THC/Revised 7/2001

Cover photo: World War 1 Victory Parade, Congress Avenue, Austin, 1919. The cover illustration documents the historic appearance of Congress Avenue

in Austin. Buildings shown in the photograph havebeen honored with both National Register and

Recorded Texas Historic Landmark designations. The photograph also suggests the symbolic

importance of the avenue as Texas’ Main Street, commemorated by a subject marker.

Photo courtesy of Austin History Center, #C00208.

TEXAS PRESERVATION GUIDELINES

REMEMBERING TEXASGUIDELINES FOR HISTORICAL RESEARCH

exans boast a unique

history. As the state

agency for historic

preservation, the Texas

Historical Commission

works with citizens

throughout the state to

identify, intrepret and

preserve our heritage.

We look forward to your

contributions...

TEXAS HISTORICAL COMMISSION

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