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Texas A&M University-San Antonio Recognizes Indigenous People and Hispanic Settlers During Historical Marker Dedication Ceremony

SAN ANTONIO (September 23, 2016)—During an on-campus ceremony, The Texas Historical Commission recognized Texas A&M University-San Antonio’s land as a significant part of Texas history by awarding the University with an Official Texas Historical Marker. The designation honors the land of A&M-San Antonioas an important and educational part of local history where indigenous people and Hispanic settlers lived.

A dedication ceremony to commemorate the event was held Thursday, September 22,at the University’s Main Campus Grand Courtyard. During the ceremony, the American Indians of Texas-Spanish Colonial Missions (Tap Pilam Nation) gave a traditional Native American Recitation and representatives from the Bexar County Historical Commission and the Texas Connection to the American Revolution Association gave remarks.

“This evening, we are paying homage to the people who came before us on this land and learning about the profound impact they’ve had on our community,” said University President Dr. Cynthia Teniente-Matson. “We are now better prepared to share this history with our students and create a future that further extends a legacy of cultural inclusion and excellence.”

In order to qualify for a marker, two basic criteria are met: historical significance and age. Historical significance is established by reviewing its role and importance in local history and the age requirement depends on the topic. 

“The Official Texas Historical Marker program helps bring attention to community treasures and the importance of their preservation,” said Mark Wolfe, executive director of the THC.  “Awareness and education are among the best ways to guarantee the preservation of our state’s history.  This designation is a tool that will increase public awareness of important cultural resources,” Wolfe said.

Texas has the largest marker program in the United States with approximately 15,000 markers.  Seventeen states have used the Texas program as a model; the THC reviews more than 300 marker applications each year. 

A&M-San Antonio’s historical marker is now on display for public viewing. For more information, please visit The Texas Historical Commission website or call A&M-San Antonio at (210) 784-1103.

 

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About Texas A&M University-San Antonio

With a nearly 700-acre Main Campus the military-embracing university recently welcomed freshmen and sophomores and became a comprehensive four-year university. Currently enrolling more than 5,000 students, Texas A&M University-San Antonio is the fastest-growing university in the state. Undergraduate and graduate degrees are available for the lowest university tuition in San Antonio for a variety of in-demand fields, including teacher preparation, business, information technology, and cyber security. To learn more, visit tamusa.edu.