Caption: Chairman John Nau speaking at the welcome ceremony on September 13^, 2019.

September was full of change at the Battleground. On September 1, the San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site was transferred from Texas Parks and Wildlife (TPWD) to Texas Historical Commission (THC). Meanwhile, the Battleship TEXAS continues preparing for the transfer to the Battleship Texas Foundation (BTF) and the eventual trip to drydock for repairs.

Battleground Transfers to THC

San Jacinto Battleground, along with 6 other historic sites, was transferred by the 86th Texas Legislature. The action allows both THC and TPWD to focus on their core missions – THC’s role as the state historic preservation office, and TPWD’s as steward of the state’s natural resources and outdoor recreation attractions.

What Does This Mean for Visitors?

What do these changes mean for visitors? Not much, at least right now. We might be wearing a different uniform now, but we’re still open the same hours and offering the same programs as before. However, we are looking forward to continuing to grow and offer more opportunities at the Battleground.

“We are excited about writing the next chapter of San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site’s story as we transfer from TPWD to THC,” site manager Andy Smith said during the welcome ceremony on September 13th. “Much work has been done, but there is still much to be done at this real place telling a revolutionary story!”