As the nation prepares to mark the 250th anniversary of its founding, the Texas Historical Commission (THC) is launching a series of events that highlight Texas history and the state’s role in the American story. Activities will take place at historic sites across Texas, offering educational programs, lectures, and commemorations tied to both national and state milestones.

One of the first events is the Big Fat Quiz of the U.S.A. at the Sam Rayburn House State Historic Site in Bonham. Scheduled for January 23, 2026, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., the program invites four teams of two to test their knowledge of American history and culture. Registration costs $1 and is required by January 7.

In Austin, the French Legation State Historic Site will host History At Home: Preserving Family Photographs and Documents on January 24, 2026, from 11 a.m. to noon. The session, part of the site’s Genealogy Research series, focuses on preserving family records and digitizing historic materials. Standard admission applies.

The Fulton Mansion State Historic Site in Rockport will present Historic Preservation: How Americans Honor the Past on February 17, 2026, from 2 to 3 p.m. The lecture explores how major anniversaries—such as the 1976 Bicentennial, the 1936 Texas Centennial, and the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States—have shaped public memory and preservation efforts.

At Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site, visitors can observe the 180th Anniversary of Texas Statehood, commemorating the February 19, 1846, transition from the Republic of Texas to statehood. The site will host an American flag raising at Hatfield’s Exchange and readings of Anson Jones’ historic speech at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m.

A full list of America 250 events at THC sites is available at www.thc.texas.gov/america250.