NACOGDOCHES, TX – Join author and historian Gary Pinkerton on Friday, August 1 at 3:30 PM at Zion Hill Baptist Church (324 N. Lanana Street) for “Contraband Culture in Nacogdoches,” a compelling presentation that uncovers the vibrant—and often illicit—networks of trade and smuggling that shaped Spanish colonial Texas.
Drawing from his books Trammel’s Trace and Bridles and Biscuits, Pinkerton will explore the lesser-known world of trade, migration, and smuggling that shaped East Texas before 1821. The talk highlights how families displaced from Los Adaes helped establish Nacogdoches and navigated the complex cultural and political networks of Spanish colonial rule. Gary Pinkerton’s passion for Texas history began when he discovered that a rut across his family’s land was once part of a historic smuggler’s road. That moment sparked years of research, culminating in the
publication of four books. Two explore how early roads facilitated trade and migration into Texas, while the others investigate the colorful figures behind Texas treasure legends. Pinkerton holds a Master of Social Work from the University of Houston and degrees in social work and psychology from East Texas A&M University. He is a Fellow of the East Texas Historical Association and currently serves as Executive Director of the Alliance for Texas History. Following the presentation, Gary Pinkerton will be available to answer questions, chat with attendees, and sign copies of his books, which will also be available for purchase.
This event is free and open to the public. For more information, visit nactx.us/historicsites or call
936-560-4441.