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Recent News
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Fall 2007
Round-Up
"Ruben Hinojosa Issues News Release: EDA Awards Museum $1 Million Grant"
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The Chisholm Trail Heritage Museum received a shot in the arm this
summer, with the announcement that the project has been awarded a
$1 million grant from the Economic Development Administration.
U.S. Congressman Ruben Hinojosa (Democrat,
Mercedes), issued a news release making the
announcement in June 2007.
The grant funds will support the renovation of the
historic building that will house the Museum, gift
shop, research library and community facilities, and
construction of a new two-story building adjacent to
the original building.
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Ruben Hinojosa
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"The Chisholm Trail Heritage Museum offers an
enriching glimpse into a little-known piece of Texas
history, and this investment will go a long way toward
preserving this heritage for generations to come,"
Hinojosa said in the release. "Not only that, but
it provides a wonderful opportunity to boost the local economy by attracting
tourists interested in Texan and American heritage sites."
Robert Oliver, chairman of the museum's board of directors, also said in the
news release that "the grant will allow our organization to create a cultural center
that celebrates the rich ranching and agricultural heritage of this area."
"But, just as important is the economic value of having a museum of regional
significance that will draw people into the town and into the area," added board
member John Hildebrand.
Grassroots Beginnings
According to the news release, the
Chisholm Trail Heritage Museum
began development in 2000 with a
small group of concerned citizens
interested in preserving the region's
ranching and agricultural heritage.
Its mission is to tell the story of
South Central Texas' contribution
to the twin legends of the Texas
cowboy and the Longhorn and
aims to make a significant cultural,
social and educational contribution
by interpreting the historical
events.
In 2002, the historic Knights of
Pythias Hall was purchased for
the purpose of establishing the
museum. Later that year, the organization
hired renowned preservation
architect David Hoffman to create
a seven-phase master plan for the
rehabilitation of the building.
"The Chisholm Trail Heritage
Museum project is a great model
for other communities who wish
to expand their economies and
attract tourism by preserving local
architectural assets and strengthening
their local educational
opportunities," Hinojosa said. "I
commend the dedication and work
the community has shown so far
and look forward to visiting the
Museum when it is completed."
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