Texas has a handful of state observances that do not get much attention outside the state and mean a fair amount inside it. Three of them fall between February and April and tell the story of how Texas became Texas, in order. Whether you grew up here or just moved to the lake, they are worth a spot on the calendar.
Texas Statehood Day, February 19
Texas formally became the twenty-eighth state on February 19, 1846, when the government of the Republic of Texas handed over to the new state government, about two months after the United States Congress accepted the annexation at the end of 1845. It is the quietest of the three dates and the one that closes the story the other two begin: independence, the battle that secured it, and then statehood. Historical societies and some schools mark it with short programs.
Texas Independence Day, March 2
On March 2, 1836, delegates meeting at Washington-on-the-Brazos signed the Texas Declaration of Independence, declaring Texas a republic separate from Mexico. It is the broadest of the three, less about one event than about state pride generally, observed with flags, local festivals, classroom time and visits to the historic sites. The site at Washington-on-the-Brazos is a state historic site and a reasonable day trip from the lake.
San Jacinto Day, April 21
April 21 marks the Battle of San Jacinto in 1836, the short, decisive fight near present-day Houston that effectively ended the Texas Revolution and secured independence. The battle lasted well under an hour. The San Jacinto Monument and battleground are a day trip south, and the date is marked with reenactments, living history and ceremonies. San Jacinto County, where Coldspring, Shepherd and Point Blank sit, carries the name.
Marking them at home
- Fly the Texas flag from the porch or the gate post. Here is how to do it without damaging the fence.
- Take the kids to one of the sites; all three are within a few hours of Lake Livingston.
- Check the county and the historical society calendars for a local program.
- Cook something. Any excuse.
Why a fence company cares
Because we build on land that was settled, fought over and fenced by people who took it seriously, and we try to build like it matters. Texas pride says the rest.
Frequently asked questions
Are these days off?
Texas Independence Day and San Jacinto Day are partial staffing holidays for state offices, but for most people they are regular workdays. They are worth noticing, not a reason to close the shop.
Is Texas Rural Fence open on these dates?
Our regular hours are 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Monday – Saturday. Call (936) 933-2500 if a date falls on a day you are not sure about.
Where can I see the history?
Washington-on-the-Brazos for the Declaration of Independence, the San Jacinto Monument near Houston for the battle, and the Alamo in San Antonio. All three are reasonable day trips from Lake Livingston.