Nacogdoches Historic Sites invites the community to celebrate National Preservation Month this May with a series of engaging programs focused on local history, preservation practices, and community storytelling. All programs will be held at the historic Zion Hill Baptist Church (324 N. Lanana St.), offering opportunities for residents to connect with the people, places, and projects that shape Nacogdoches’ historic landscape. A highlight of the month is the Lunch Hour Learn Series, held each Tuesday at 12:15 PM. Community members are encouraged to bring their lunch and enjoy informative presentations from preservation professionals and local experts. Light refreshments, including water and cookies, will be provided.
Featured programs in the series include Dr. Perky Beisel with the Nacogdoches County Historical Commission, who will provide a live demonstration on the proper methods for restoring Texas Historical Markers, and Mr. Dennis White, who
recently completed the restoration of the historic Hazle-White Building and will share insights into the preservation process, including the challenges and successes experienced throughout the project. The series will also include a special
presentation by Jessica Sowell, City of Nacogdoches Community Services Director and Historic Preservation Officer, who will share information about Nacogdoches’ historic districts and available preservation grants and resources. “These programs are designed to make preservation accessible and engaging for everyone,” said Veronica Amoe, Historic Sites Manager. “We invite the community to learn how we can all play a role in preserving the history that makes Nacogdoches unique.”
Preservation Month programming will conclude with a special Memorial Day weekend event: Memorial Day Memories: Zion Hill Neighborhood Preservation
Saturday, May 23 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Zion Hill Historic Site, 324 N. Lanana St.
Presented by the African American Heritage Project, this program will celebrate the memories and legacy of the Zion Hill neighborhood while exploring ways to preserve its history for future generations. The event will feature Paul Jackson and
Lasha Williams of the African American Heritage Project, Kyle Ainsworth with the East Texas Research Center, and Archie Rison, author and historian. Light refreshments will be served, and attendees will have the opportunity to tour Zion Hill Baptist Church and the Clay House. All Preservation Month programs are free and open to the public. For more information, call or text 936-560-4441 or email
historicsites@nactx.us
Nacogdoches Historic Sites Celebrates Preservation Month with Community Programs at Zion Hill
