The Liberty County Historical Commission once again is being honored for its members’ exceptional dedication to safeguarding local history.
At the Liberty County Commissioners Court meeting on Tuesday, May 28, County Judge Jay Knight presented an official proclamation recognizing the Texas Historical Commission recently bestowing the Liberty County Historical Commission with the prestigious Distinguished Service Award. This esteemed recognition was presented by Judge Knight to Linda Jamison, LCHC County Chair, and LCHC members Beverly Davis and Paul Henry.
The Distinguished Service Award is presented to historical commissions based on comprehensive annual reports submitted by CHCs across the state, encompassing all aspects of preservation work within the county. This marks the 12th consecutive year that the LCHC has achieved this honor.
Jamison provided commissioners court with insights about the ongoing projects, including plans for a Texas Historical Commission marker for Ames Freedom Colony and two local historical markers for the 1909 Dayton State Bank Building, which subsequently served as the medical office for Dr. Ernest Rowland Richter. Moreover, the Commission aims to honor the life and contributions of the late Dr. Richter, a prominent figure in Dayton.
Their efforts also extend beyond marker designations, encompassing the preservation of historical cemeteries and initiatives to enhance historical awareness among local youth. The Commission has introduced a historical photograph contest for students, accompanied by an essay component, as part of their youth history program. These essays will be judged at the end of summer with the winners announced in September.
Jamison also extended an invitation to the community, encouraging attendance at the upcoming LCHC quarterly meetings, which are open to the public. The next meeting, scheduled for July, is set to feature Cheryl LaPont, a DNA expert from Louisiana. LaPont works with law enforcement agencies to narrow down the pool of people who could be involved with a particular crime where DNA is present.
Expressing gratitude for the award, Jamison thanked the county’s officials for their support and stressed the significance of the Texas Historical Commission’s acknowledgment of the dedicated volunteer work in Liberty County.