Plano Conservancy

"Cruisin' in the Park" 2012

Sun, 13 May 2012 02:25:00 GMT

"Cruisin' in the Park" Offers Kids, Families Springtime Fun in Plano's Historic District, featured Soap Box Derby, Classic Car Show, Pine Box Derby, Interurban Railway Museum Tours, Interactive Art “Crawl,” Great Foods, Live Music and Family Fun

On Saturday, May 12, Plano's Haggard Park was filled with fun for all ages at "Cruisin' in the Park" – a Plano Rotary Club event supported by The Plano Conservancy for Historic Preservation, Inc., the Historic Downtown Plano Association, and the Collin County Master Gardeners to celebrate Plano and National Historic Preservation Month.

An event highlight for kids was the open soap box derby race presented by Plano Rotary Club.

The festivities also included a pinewood derby, tours of Plano's Interurban Railway Museum and Rail Car #360, face painting, a sidewalk chalk art area, cane pole fishing, stick horse races, cow roping, educational displays regarding historic preservation in Plano and more.

A classic car show took place in the parking lot just east of the Interurban Railway Museum and an "art crawl" featured local artists displaying works and creating pieces throughout the historic downtown area, with opportunities for fans of all ages to interact with the artists and their creations.

"This free, fun, family event was an excellent opportunity for us to promote the City of Plano’s heritage resources," said Plano Conservancy for Historic Preservation Co-Director Maggie Sprague. "Today's Plano is much changed from the city of just a generation ago, but the growth of the city and the nature of its spirit can be traced back to the first settlers who came to the area 150 years ago. This event allowed us to educate guests about the historic preservation efforts underway in the city, and to make them aware of the rich history and culture that this area has to offer."

The event also featured a presentation from Plano Mayor Phil Dyer recognizing Haggard Park's recent designation as a "Lone Star Legacy Park" by the Texas Recreation and Parks Society.

"This event would not have been possible except for the generous donations by Huffines Auto Dealerships, Alpha Omega Insurance and The Shops at Willow Bend and a lot of hard work by many great people," said Plano Rotarian and "Cruisin' in the Park," event chair Ben Criste. "We had fun-filled day for kids and parents, and were able to support nonprofits such as nonPareil, Assistance Center of Collin County, and the Plano Rotary Foundation."

The event's DJ and emcee was Al Johnson of Carrollton, accomplished singer, actor, public speaker director and educator. Local favorite Colton Jacobson of Frisco performed the national anthem and sang his debut single "Last Forever" and other favorites throughout the event. Chrissy Harrold, a rising young star from McKinney, also took the stage during the event to make her downtown Plano debut.

The event was sponsored by Huffines Auto Dealerships, and proceeds from the event will benefit the Assistance Center of Collin County, nonPareil and the Plano Rotary Foundation.

For more information, please visit www.planoconservancy.org or call 972.941.2117

About The Plano Conservancy for Historic Preservation, Inc:
The Plano Conservancy for Historic Preservation, Inc., a Texas corporation 501 (c)(3) non-profit, is an organization dedicated to promote civic pride in the past, to increase preservation awareness through education and public outreach, and to provide financial assistance to protect and preserve our heritage resources for this and future generations. For more information, please visit www.planoconservancy.org or call 972-941-2117.

Tree "Cookie" at Haggard Library

Thu, 17 May 2012 14:39:00 GMT

There's a new kind of cookie on display at Plano's Haggard Library . . but it's not sweet and it's not to eat.

The tree "cookie" - the nickname for a tree cross-section - was recently installed by Eagle Scout candidate Daniel Duncan of Richardson (from Boy Scout Troop 262), his father Ian Duncan and a team of volunteers.

The pecan tree cross section is on display in Plano's Haggard Library on the lower level outside the Geneology, Local History, Texana and Archives.

The tree cross-section is from a pecan tree that was cut down near the new 10th hole of Plano's Pecan Hollow Golf Course. The tree was estimated to be about 79 years old at the time of removal.

Labels on the rings of the "cookie" detail dates of local historic significance. Dates between 1932 and 2011 are highlighted.

A dedication ceremony took place on Friday, May 4.

"There are so many people that dedicated their time, energy and resources to make this project possible," said Candace Fountoulakis of Plano, a data collection technician with the City of Plano Parks and Recreation Department who also volunteers in a variety of area historic preservation pursuits including The Plano Conservancy for Historic Preservation and the RIP Guardians of Young Cemetery. "Robin Reeves and Ron Underwood of the Plano Parks Department helped us save this piece of a big, old pecan tree. Arborilogical Services recommended a sealant to slow down the drying process while we decided how to proceed with the 'cookie.' Clint Haggard stored the piece for us while we searched for a donor and a woodshop to tackle re-cutting and finishing the piece. Robert and Mary Jo Hamrick were instrumental in funding this project, with the support of the Plano Conservancy for Historic Preservation who allowed their donation to go toward the preservation of this chunk of Plano history). Bill Steuwe of Georgetown cut, sanded and sealed the piece. Kym Hughes, Duane Peter and The Plano Conservancy for Historic Preservation were instrumental in moving the piece to and from its destinations."

"I also want to thank Daniel Duncan for tackling this project. He built the stand, which was based on a design from the Mayborn Museum in Waco, Texas," she added.

The museum allowed Duncan to review their blueprints from a similar stand in their collection. Sid Wall from The Plano Conservancy for Historic Preservation consulted with Daniel regarding technicalities of the stand's construction.

"We also thank Haggard Library for agreeing to accept this donation of this enormous piece, which was no small feat to fit in its resting place!" said Fountoulakis.

About The Plano Conservancy for Historic Preservation, Inc: The Plano Conservancy for Historic Preservation, Inc., a Texas corporation 501 (c)(3) non-profit, is an organization dedicated to promote civic pride in the past, to increase preservation awareness through education and public outreach, and to provide financial assistance to protect and preserve our heritage resources for this and future generations. For more information, please visit
www.planoconservancy.org or call 972-941-2117.

Note: Plano Television Network video coverage of this story is available here.

CCHC Recognition

Mon, 14 May 2012 19:36:00 GMT

On Saturday, May 5, 2012, the Collin County Historical Commission recognized The Plano Conservancy for Historic Preservation with a certificate of appreciation for Excellence in Historical Education. Plano Conservancy for Historic Preservation Board Member Candace Fountoulakis of Plano was at the event to receive the award.

Tree Cookie at Haggard Library

Sun, 22 Apr 2012 21:29:00 GMT

There's a new kind of cookie on display at Plano's Haggard Library . . but it's not sweet and it's not to eat.

A tree "cookie" - the nickname for a tree cross-section - was recently installed by Eagle Scout candidate Daniel Duncan (of Troop 252), his father Ian Duncan and a team of volunteers.

The pecan tree cross section is on display in Plano's Haggard Library on the lower level outside the Genealogy, Texana and Local History section.

Labels will soon be installed on the rings of the "cookie" detailing dates of local historic significance. Dates between 1930 and 2011 will be highlighted.

A dedication ceremony is scheduled for early May.

The Interurban Railway Museum

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 15:47:00 GMT

The Role of the Conservancy

The City of Plano owns the museum, the Plano Conservancy staffs, operates and offices there and has been instrumental in developing and maintaining the museum and its exhibits. We have completed the following projects at the Interurban Railway Museum:

Interurban History

If you were fortunate enough to live in Plano between 1908 and 1948, then you most likely had an opportunity to experience the rollicking, clickity clack sway of riding on a Texas Electric Railway Interurban Car. This second generation of rail transportation extended from Denison to Waco, with connections to Fort Worth, Cleburne, and Denton possible through the "hub" station in Dallas.

Rail transportation powered by steam first arrived in Plano in 1872 and forever changed the agrarian lifestyle of early settlers who had traveled to this area by covered wagon. While steam engines guaranteed the survival and likelihood of growth to a community and transported farm crops to distant locations, the laborious process of producing enough steam to drive the train forward limited the frequency of stops along a line. In the late 1880's ingenious inventors discovered the wonder of electricity and devised ways to harness this marvel into driving trolley cars previously drawn by mules or horses.

Economic Importance

Entrepreneurs, capitalizing on ways to market this new transportation, developed systems throughout the United States that connected small towns and outlying farms to a large, regional city. Overnight, farming families isolated from society by distance had easy and affordable access to opportunities and amenities available to urban populations.

Located in downtown Plano, the Texas Electric Railway Station served as an early form of the Internet bringing people, goods, newspapers with worldwide coverage, and traveling salesmen together in a timely fashion. A contract signed with the United States Post Office in 1914 permitted mail to be carried and delivered to the many towns along the line via the Texas Electric Railway System. Three interurban cars were refitted with bins, sorting tables, mail slots and cancellation stamps enabling two postal employees, in a secured rear compartment, to process mail as the car traveled north and south on its daily schedule.

Connecting Past to Present

The Interurban building in Plano was also an electric sub-station that converted the high voltage alternating current to direct current in order to power the line. This is the only remaining sub-station example on the Interurban line, which served as a primary stop on the Texas Electric Railway, linking Denison and Dallas beginning in 1908. The Interurban's impact on rural life was dramatic as it ended the isolation of distant farm families. Not only did it bring the mail, salesmen and new products to small towns and their stores, but it gave rural residents a means to explore the bright lights and big city cheaply and safely. Trains ran hourly from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

The advent of the automobile contributed to the closing of the Plano station on December 31, 1948, when the Denison to Dallas Interurban made its last run. The building was used in a variety of ways until 1982. It was then closed until 1990, when a complete restoration of the building was completed by the City of Plano. The dedication of this Texas Historical Landmark was held on June 17, 1991 and was opened to the public as a museum.

Kid's Corner!

Sun, 13 May 2012 01:54:00 GMT

Hey kids!

Welcome to Kid's Corner!

Whether your at Plano's Interurban Railway Museum or out and about in Plano, learning about history is great fun! When you're not learning at our museum or other historic areas of Plano, come to this page to find exciting, fun activities that you can do at home!

Have a grownup help you download and print our Kid's Corner downloads (you'll see them over there on the left!), including a coloring page of Rail Car #360, a word search, our "super sleuth" cemetery scavenger hunt, and more!

And don't forget, we have children's story time every Friday at Plano's Interurban Railway Museum at 10:30. Be sure to come to meet Ms. Genie and her sidekick Rags, as they take you on a magical adventure through books, stories, songs and other kids of fun!

If you can't join us for story time, check our this list of some of our favorite train books that you can check out from your local library and enjoy at home!

Kid's Cemetery Scavenger Hunt

Mon, 09 Apr 2012 23:18:00 GMT

If you want to go on this adventure, but do not have the guide and questions, simply click on the ‘Super Sleuth’s Guide’ link to the left and download the challenge now. Good luck!

EXPLORE! STUDY! DISCOVER!
You've had a grand adventure visiting Plano's historic cemeteries and marking your observations in your notebook. Now, check your answers here! If you want to go on this adventure, but do not have the guide and questions, simply click on the ‘Super Sleuth’s Guide’ link to the left and download the challenge now. Good luck!

1) Describe the gate and/or fence at each cemetery.
Baccus: Large, decorative gate off of Bishop Road with Baccus name at the top.
Bethany: A gate between two brick posts off of Custer Road.
Bowman: No main gate or fence, but family plots are fenced.
Collinsworth: Black decorative gate and iron fence
Leach-Thomas: No main gate or fence, but Leach family plots have pipe fencing around them. (The pipe fencing was added to protect the markers from grazing cows from a nearby farmer's field.)
Old City: No entrance sign or gate. Fence around most of property - entry is through a gap in the fence on H Street. An iron fence surrounds the McDonald family plot.
Plano Mutual: Iron fence with gated, arched entry features Plano Mutual name.
Rowlett Creek: Iron fence with gated, arched entry says "Rowlett Cemetery 1895 - 1920."

There is a pedestrian gate here.
Young: The fence surrounding the cemetery is missing the gate. Entry is through two old, wooden gate posts.
Have you ever thought about how historic cemeteries came to be? Early settlers did not have access to burial services like we do today. As more and more families relocated to this area, landowners would set aside a section of open acreage, thick with prairie grass, for the final resting place for loved ones. The need to prevent or contain disease often made a quick burial necessary, resulting in small cemetery plots scattered across the countryside. In some instances, outlying settlers would obtain permission to bury their deceased family members in another family’s cemetery. Funerals were held in homes with relatives and nearby neighbors preparing the body and tending to those in grief. Family members cared for these burial grounds.

2) Can you name one or two of the types of trees that you see?
Baccus: Juniper
Bethany: Cedar Elm, Juniper, Sycamore, Hackberry
Bowman: Cedar Elm, Hackberry
Collinsworth: Black Willow, Hackberry, Common Persimmon, American Elm
Leach-Thomas: Cedar Elm, Hackberry, Bois d ‘Arc, Eastern Red Cedar
Old City: American Elm, Hackberry, Juniper
Plano Mutual: Bois d'Arc, Eastern Red Cedar, Juniper, American Elm
Rowlett Creek: Juniper, Pecan, Cedar Elm, American Elm
Young: Pecan (behind Texas historical marker), American Elm, Cedar Elm, Hackberry, Honey Locust, Bois d'Arc, Black Walnut

3) Which early settlers or prominent families in Plano history are represented in each cemetery?
(Hint: check the wayside sign and Texas historical markers for clues).
Baccus: Baccus, Cook, Martin, Dudley, Pearson, Bishop, Miller, Collinsworth, Bolin
Bethany: Carpenter, Mathews, Robinson, Clark
Bowman: Russell, Dye, Brown, Bowman, Hughston
Collinsworth: Collinsworth
Leach-Thomas: Muncey, Leach, Thomas, Perrin, Huffmann
Old City: Aldridge, Armstrong, Bowman, Forman, Mathews, Rice, Wilson, McDonald, Jasper, Armstrong, Mendenhall, Saigling
Plano Mutual: Forman, Bowman, Rice, Hawkins, Mathews,
Rowlett Creek: Harrington, Wilson, Rasor, Haggard, Christie, Hedgcoxe, Forman, Huffman, Clark, Young, Baccus, Collinsworth, Mathews, Huffmann, Carpenter
Young: Young, Abbott, Baccus, Bankston, Crenshaw, Dennard, Finley Jackson, McConnell, McQuerry, Teel and Young
Do some of these names sound familiar? Names of Plano's early settlers or prominent families have been used to name Plano's streets, parks and schools!

4) Do you see any markers noting war veterans? Describe. Which wars are represented?
Baccus: War of 1812, World War I, World War II. You will also see a marker indicating the Women's Army Corps for Lula B. Goodger.
Bethany: World War II, Civil War
Bowman: unknown
Collinsworth: unknown
Leach-Thomas: Civil War
Old City: World War I, World War II, the Korean War
Plano Mutual: War of 1812, Civil War, World War I, World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam
Rowlett Creek: World War I, World War II, Civil War
Young: War of 1812, Civil War

5) What organization has large markers with a tree theme?
Woodmen of the World. Many monuments are designed to look like logs or tree stumps. The organization's name is carved within a circle on these markers. The Latin writing in this logo stands for "Though silent he speaks".

6) Can you find a Texas historical marker on the property? If so, what does it say?
Baccus: full text available here: http://www.stoppingpoints.com/texas/sights.cgi?marker=Baccus+Cemetery&cnty=collin
Bethany: no marker
Bowman: no marker
Collinsworth: no marker
Leach-Thomas: no marker
Old City: full text available here: http://www.stoppingpoints.com/texas/sights.cgi?marker=Plano+Cemetery&cnty=collin
Plano Mutual: full text available here: http://www.stoppingpoints.com/texas/sights.cgi?marker=Plano+Mutual+Cemetery&cnty=collin
Rowlett Creek: full text available here: http://www.stoppingpoints.com/texas/sights.cgi?marker=Rowlett+Creek+Cemetery&cnty=collin
Young: full text available here: http://www.stoppingpoints.com/texas/sights.cgi?marker=Young+Cemetery&cnty=collin

Informative wayside signs are also located at all cemeteries listed in your brochure. The signs provide details about the area and information about some of people buried in each location.

7) Which type of stone marker stays shiny the longest outdoors?
Granite stays shiny the longest outdoors. Some markers are made of native sandstone, which erodes easily. Marble and granite markers are more durable, but still can be damaged by weather, exposure and vandalism.

8) Which cemetery is the resting place of relatives of U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson?
Leach-Thomas: William Perrin and his wife, Dycie, LBJ's great-great-grandparents
Rowlett Creek: John S. Huffman, LBJ's great-great-grandfather,Dr. John S. Huffman and his wife Mary Elizabeth, LBJ's great- grandparents

9) Which location includes the graves of five Peters Colonists?
Old City

10) Which cemetery:
a. features a missing gate? Young Cemetery. A family member removed the gate, fearing it would be stolen.
b. is near a golf course? Young Cemetery.
c. contains an antique water pump (it still works!)? Plano Mutual
d. stands next to sculptures of a longhorn cattle drive? Baccus
e. has a tree with a section of fence inside its trunk? Bowman

Historic Plano: A Walking Tour

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 20:38:00 GMT

As you trace the footsteps of our early pioneer settlers, you will have greater awareness of earlier people, places and events that have helped to shape our past, present and continue to influence Plano's future.

The links to the left allow you to download documents that will take you on a self-guided walking tour of some of the historic areas of Plano.

Today's Plano is much changed from the city of just a generation ago, but the growth of the city and the nature of its spirit can be traced back to those first settlers who came to the area 150 years ago.

So put on your walking shoes and prepare to explore, learn and discover more about the history of the city of Plano!

Want to see more before you head out the door?

Check out this Plano Television Network video highlighting some of the sites in Historic Plano.

(Hard copies of maps and accompanying guide brochures are also available atThe Interurban Railway Museum, and museum staff are available to answer your questions and provide directions and guidance during their regular business hours. Maps/guides are also available at The Plano Chamber of Commerce.)

Plano's Historic Cemeteries

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 02:34:00 GMT

Where can you find Plano's historic cemeteries?

Here are some general directions and the

exact GPS coordinates to get you there:

1. Baccus:

Intersection of Legacy Drive and Bishop Road
Lat 33.0789 Long -96.8211

2. Bethany:

Custer Road north of Legacy Drive
Lat 33.0769 Long -96.7367

3. Bowman:

In the Santa Fe Park at Oak Grove and Castle Drive
Lat 33.04068 Long -96.67501

4. Collinsworth:

Mid-block on Vermillion south of Parker Road
Lat 33.04025 Long -96.78683

(check out an informative and interesting video about Collinsworth, here)

5. Leach-Thomas:

Destin Dr. at Pensacola
Lat 33.06955 Long -96.676305

6. Old City:

Avenue H at 12th Street
Lat 33.015 Long -96.7035

7. Plano Mutual:

18th Street just west of Jupiter Road
Lat 33.0247 Long -96.6825

8. Rowlett Creek:

West of Custer on Cemetery Road, just south of SH 121
Lat 33.12111 Long -96.7346

9. Young:

East side of Estancia Apartments at Independence Pkwy., south of SH 121.

Or access from Ridgeview Ranch Golf Course.
Lat 33.11755 Long -96.74415

Video Features Houston RIP Guardians

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 21:24:00 GMT

Houston Arts and Media has released a new short video entitled With Respect: Preserving Historic Cemeteries.

Produced in partnership with the Texas Historical Commission and the Texas Society Daughters of the American Revolution, the video is meant to encourage new volunteerism and involvement in the cause of saving the 50,000 Texas cemeteries deemed to be historic.

The new video may be seen here.

Houston Arts and Media conceived, developed and produced the film, which runs just under twenty minutes in length. Included are representatives of both the THC and TSDAR along with Joe Turner, Director of the City of Houston's Parks and Recreation Department, which oversees one of the burial grounds highlighted in the documentary. The other prominent voices heard belong to some of the wonderful, tireless advocates who donate their time and money to care for three particular cemeteries in urban Houston.

Though the three Houston cemeteries, Founder's Memorial Park, Olivewood and College Memorial Park, are used as moving examples, the scope of the documentary is statewide. Images included in the video cover the broad range of historic cemeteries, both urban and rural, to be found across Texas, from the West Texas mountains to the Rio Grande Valley. With Respect is to be widely distributed in hopes of inspiring and enlisting Texans to properly care for these sacred places.

Houston Arts and Media continues to work on several other projects such as the award-winning Birth of Texas Documentary Series, a multi-part series of feature length documentaries that chronicle the journey from Mexican Texas, along the road to Revolution, through the days of the Republic and on to statehood. Among other high-profile projects are the popular HAM Slices of History and videos featured on the city's website www.houstonpreservation.org . They also continue with Neighborhood to Neighbor, an ongoing oral history gathering project that has already placed the stories of scores of Houstonians in the Houston Public Library’s Houston Metropolitan Research Center and Rice University’s Woodson Research Center. Material from these interviews will also enhance the first of HAM’s books, the two-volume Historic Schools of Harris County. Parties interested in supporting these efforts through donations or volunteerism should contact Houston Arts and Media via e-mail at info@houstonartsandmedia.org.

For more information, please visit www.houstonartsandmedia.org

Haggard Park designated "Lone Star Legacy"

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 15:28:00 GMT

City park a Lone Star Legacy: Haggard among nine state parks honored

By Kelley Chambers
Plano Star Courier: Friday, March 9, 2012

Looking at Haggard Park in downtown Plano today, one would never guess this area was one of the least favorable parts of town before it was officially made a park in 1925.

Prior to that, it had been the site of a grist mill and was in desperate need of some rehabilitation.

Thanks to the desire of those earlier generations to beautify the city along its major railway, Haggard Park was one of only nine Texas parks honored last month as a Lone Star Legacy Park by the Texas Recreation and Parks Society.

The purpose of the inaugural designation is to recognize what a park means to a particular community, and only considers those parks that are at least 50 years old and hold special prominence locally and statewide.

In a city known for its parks and trails, Haggard Park has become something of an icon for those who frequent Plano's green areas. Thanks to their support, a lot of people (and bond money) have worked to make Plano's park and trail system what it is today, Chief Park Planner Robin Reeves said.

"Haggard Park still remains a focal point for the downtown Plano area and people have gatherings here throughout the year, from weddings to Christmas tree lightings," Reeves said. "The city has continued to invest in that park over the years and with the expansions and new improvements, we are very honored. We think the park deserves it."

The park has become a part of the city's history and is surrounded by other historically significant landmarks, such as the original Plano high school and the Interurban Railway Museum. Last year alone, 51 weddings and birthday parties were held in the bandstand in the park and more than 11,000 visitors toured the Interurban Railway Museum.

"We sent the application to TRAPS and thanked them for trying to increase awareness of the significance of parks throughout Texas," said Candace Fountoulakis, a data collection technician with the parks and recreation department who dug up as much historical information as possible to include in the application. "We felt Haggard is a model for exactly what they were looking for."

After learning about the park's humble beginnings (for example, in 1921 the Star Courier described the area where the park would be as "ugly land that everyone must see every day as they ride the train or come in or out of Plano,") Fountoulakis said the park's historical significance, along with the cultural heritage of the community, has maintained its importance throughout the years.

What was once considered an eyesore is now a city jewel, she said.

"It's not just a piece of history, it's a current part of the fabric of the neighborhood," Fountoulakis said. "A lot of different groups of people were involved in preserving this park. They really were unhappy with the way it looked around that area. People who gather here now enjoy the look of the place, it's been enhanced and we continue to enhance it."

Other parks honored as a Lone Star Legacy Park were Zilker Park, Austin; Botanic Gardens, Fort Worth; San Gabriel Park, Georgetown; Heritage Park, Grapevine; Landa Park, New Braunfels; Civic League Park, San Angelo; San Pedro Springs Park, San Antonio; and Walnut Spring Park, Seguin.

2012 Scholarship

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 20:13:00 GMT

The Plano Conservancy for Historic Preservation, Inc.

now accepting applications for 2012 scholarships

PLANO, TEXAS -- February 14, 2012 -- The Plano Conservancy for Historic Preservation, Inc. today announced that the group is now accepting applications for its 2012 scholarships.

The group will award three scholarships to Plano Independent School District seniors seeking to study historic preservation, architecture, archaeology, anthropology, urban planning or certain fields of engineering.

The Norwood M. Brenneke Scholarship of $3,500.00 and two other scholarships of $2,000.00 each are being offered for 2012. All applications must be postmarked no later than April 27, 2012. Applications are available for download at www.planoconservancy.org/scholarships or students interested may call the Conservancy at 972.941.2117 to obtain an application.

The Norwood M. Brenneke Scholarship was named in honor of Mr. Brenneke who was a founding board member and first treasurer of The Plano Conservancy.

"We encourage all qualified students to investigate this funding opportunity," said Maggie Sprague of Plano, co-founder of The Plano Conservancy for Historic Preservation, Inc. "These scholarships give The Plano Conservancy for Historic Preservation an opportunity to ensure that preservation management and stewardship of our cultural heritage will continue forward in generations to come."

About The Plano Conservancy for Historic Preservation, Inc:

The Plano Conservancy for Historic Preservation, Inc., a Texas corporation 501 (c)(3) non-profit, is an organization dedicated to promote civic pride in the past, to increase preservation awareness through education and public outreach, and to provide financial assistance to protect and preserve our heritage resources for this and future generations. For more information, please visit www.planoconservancy.org or call 972-941-2117.

Dallas Child Magazine February 2012

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 13:30:00 GMT

Extra, extra, read more about us! The Interurban Railway Museum is featured in the February 2012 edition of Dallas Child. Print version in the photo at left, or online version here. Enjoy!

Storytime at The Interurban

Sun, 20 May 2012 20:16:00 GMT

Every Friday morning at 10:30 in the lobby of the historic Interurban Railway Museum in downtown Plano, spellbound children take a magical train ride through the tales of professional storyteller Genie Hammel and her sidekick Rags.

The 30-minute fun-filled, interactive experience is aimed at toddlers and pre-school children. However, kids of all ages are welcome and often attend.

May 25 Story Time Theme:
There's Trouble on the Tracks!
This train sees trouble ahead,
"Put on the brakes!" the engineer said . . .

Ms. Genie is a master at providing young children age-appropriate ways to learn about trains. Her stories arouse their curiosity to explore the rest of the museum, especially its model train display and interactive exhibits based on the principals of electricity used to power the Texas Electric Railway cars. There’s even an opportunity to board Interurban Rail Car 360, manufactured in 1911, just outside the train station for an imaginary trip down the line.

A parent or guardian must accompany all children. Large groups should contact us or call 972-241-2117 to ensure a spot in this highly popular program. Admission is free, but donations are always welcome!

Young Cemetery Cleanup

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 18:53:00 GMT

On Saturday, January 14, 2012 volunteers from Collin College helped move more than three yards of donated mulch into a grove of trees in Plano's historic Young Cemebery. Volunteers also set up a composting area and moved logs from a downed tree into the compost pile. Mulch was donated by the City of Plano.

Interurban Museum Field Trips

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 03:19:00 GMT

Make Tracks to the Interurban Railway Museum:
Our field trips bring history to life!

The Interurban Railway Museum is located in Plano's historic Haggard Park, which is located at a DART rail stop and features a playground, picnic tables, a bandstand, and a small pond. Field trips are offered Monday-Thursday at 10:00 a.m. Field trips for all age groups are available, and reservations are required for field trips of any size.

Museum Field Trips:
• About one hour from start to finish
• Support the Texas TEKS (see full details below)
• Available Monday-Thursday, beginning at 10:00 a.m.
• Serve all age groups
• Reservations required for all visits
• Suggested $1.00 donation per child

Preschool/Kindergarten-focused field trips include:
A tour of 100-year-old Railway Post Office Car 360, guided by a uniformed rail car motor man!
• Learn about rail post offices
• Discover period advertising
• Discuss what rail travel was like 100 years ago.
• A tour of the Interurban Railway Museum
• Recreated train depot lobby
• Regional history room including transportation, crops and livestock artifact room featuring a working "O" scale model train layout, and much more!

Upper level field trips for grades 1-5 are available in a variety of formats:

1. The “Urban Express” Tour:
tour of Railway Post Office Car #360, guided by a uniformed rail car motor man: learn about the rail post office system, discuss period advertising in the train car and learn more about electric rail travel.
tour of the Interurban Railway Museum: learn about regional history in the history room, explore interactive displays in the science room and experience the working "O" scale model train layout and other period artifacts.

2. The “Coach Car” Tour:
Includes everything offered in the "Urban Express”, as well as a detailed, engaging curriculum for leaders to teach about the various subjects and concepts included in the museum.

3. The “Motorman's Choice” Tour:
Includes everything offered in the “Coach Car” tour as well as a walking tour of the historic area surrounding the museum, including a historic neighborhood overview, public art pieces, a time capsule, modern day rail transport and more!

Educators:

Click below for additional field trip curriculum details including details on how our curriculum aligns with Texas TEKS objectives and more. (this section is under development)

· Preschool and/or Kindergarten field trip (more details coming soon!)

· First Grade field trip (more details coming soon!)

· Second Grade field trip (more details coming soon!)

· Third Grade field trip (more details coming soon!)

· Fourth Grade field trip (more details coming soon!)

· Fifth grade field trip (more details coming soon!)

Visit the downloads section of the Interurban Museum page for color flyers with details about our field trip options.

Links above will soon include detailed worksheets, optional classroom pre- and post-trip activities, and additional details on how our curriculum aligns with TEKS objectives and more. More detailed guides will be added soon!

To book your Field Trip the the Interurban Museum please Contact Us!

Archaeology Fair 2012

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 01:53:00 GMT

Plans are underway for this year's Archaeology Fair, to be conducted in October 2012. If you or your company is interested in sponsorship or participating, please contact the Plano Conservancy at 972-941-2117.

About the Plano Conservancy for Historic Preservation
The Plano Conservancy for Historic Preservation, Inc., a Texas corporation 501 (c)(3) non-profit, is an organization dedicated to promote civic pride in the past, to increase preservation awareness through education and public outreach, and to provide financial assistance to protect and preserve our heritage resources for this and future generations. For more information, please visit www.planoconservancy.org or call 972-941-2117.

Dickens in Downtown 2011

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 19:30:00 GMT

Plano's Interurban Railway Museum was filled with guests during "Dickens in Historic Downtown Plano" on Friday, December 2. Visitors enjoyed museum tours, a special children's story time, and live music performances.

"The downtown area was filled with music, carolers, concessions, shopping and holiday fun," said Maggie Sprague of Plano, co-founder of The Plano Conservancy for Historic Preservation, Inc., the group that manages the museum. "This popular event gives us the opportunity to showcase the Interurban Railway Museum to guests who have not have had the chance to experience the museum before."

The museum offered a special children's story time, featuring a reading of "The Polar Express". Uniformed railway motormen guided guests through the museum and were available for photo opportunities with children. The musical group 15th Street Singers also performed at the museum.

The museum also hosted a raffle drawing for a variety of fun packages including several "Holiday Treats and Eats" bundles featuring restaurant gift certificates and other goodies from downtown Plano merchants, gift certificates for a private wine tasting at Premier Wines of Plano, a tote from Barnes & Noble overflowing with children's books and activities, and a "Train Lover's Delight" train-themed children's basket.

All money raised through the raffle benefits the ongoing restoration of rail car 360, which is located directly outside the museum.

The Plano Interurban Railway Museum is located at 901 E. 15th Street in historic downtown Plano and is open Monday through Friday 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and Saturday 1-5 p.m.

The museum features a variety of displays for adults and children, including:
-train depot lobby including a ticket counter, pot belly stove and waiting benches
-history room features an overview of regional history and details about trains, cotton, cattle and crops
-science room features interactive displays that teach the principles of electricity
-artifact room features a working "O" scale model train layout, railroad track components, a model rotary converter, artifact cases and much more!

For more information call 972.941.2117 or visit www.planoconservancy.org

About The Plano Conservancy for Historic Preservation, Inc:
The Plano Conservancy for Historic Preservation, Inc., a Texas corporation 501 (c)(3) non-profit, is an organization dedicated to promote civic pride in the past, to increase preservation awareness through education and public outreach, and to provide financial assistance to protect and preserve our heritage resources for this and future generations. For more information, please visit www.planoconservancy.org or call 972-941-2117.

Archaeology Fair 2011

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 19:11:00 GMT

Pint-sized explorers, budding artists and junior archeologists were among those who visited this year's Annual Archeological Fair on Saturday, October 8, 2011 at Bob Woodruff Park in Plano. The event was sponsored by sponsored by The Plano Conservancy for Historic Preservation, GeoMarine, Inc., and the City of Plano Parks and Recreation Department.

"This year's event featured record attendance and was great fun for all involved. Children, parents, grandparents, volunteers and educators all enjoyed a day full of unique learning opportunities," said Plano Conservancy Co-Director Maggie Sprague of Plano. "This annual event is a wonderful learning experience and features fun for the whole family."

The fair featured a variety of activities and exhibits including a flintknapping demonstration, pottery demonstration and design transfer, rock painting, a petroglyph site and a pictograph wall. Guests had the opportunity to use a pumpdrill and try their hand at grinding their own corn. The event also featured a digging sandbox for small children.

"Our guests had the opportunity to participate in hands-on excavation, enjoy Native American drummers and dancers, see a variety of exhibits and demonstrations and much more," Sprague added.

Plans are already underway for next year's Archeological Fair, to be conducted in October 2012. If you or your company is interested in sponsorship or participating, please contact the Plano Conservancy at 972-941-2117.

About the Plano Conservancy for Historic Preservation
The Plano Conservancy for Historic Preservation, Inc., a Texas corporation 501 (c)(3) non-profit, is an organization dedicated to promote civic pride in the past, to increase preservation awareness through education and public outreach, and to provide financial assistance to protect and preserve our heritage resources for this and future generations. For more information, please visit www.planoconservancy.org or call 972-941-2117.

Book: Plano and the Interurban Railway

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 21:08:00 GMT

The Plano Conservancy for Historic Preservation, Inc. is pleased to announce its recently published book, PLANO AND THE INTERURBAN RAILWAY. This book, through historical images and captions, chronicles the development of a regional electric rail system a century ago. Rarely seen photographs transport the reader back to a simpler time while providing a glimpse of the social and significant events of that golden age.

The book is available for sale through Barnes and Noble, Amazon.com or Arcadia Publishing. Should you wish your copy signed by the authors, please stop by the Interurban Railway Museum Monday thru Friday between 10:00 AM. and 2:00 PM.

2011 Scholarship Winner: Amanda Campo

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 16:01:00 GMT

Amanda Campo was the 2011 winner of the Norwood M. Brenneke Scholarship from The Plano Conservancy for Historic Preservation, Inc.

Amanda is attending the University of Arkansas, double majoring in History and Archaeology. She hopes to become an Archaeologist with a focus in Italian History.

Scholarships

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 15:59:00 GMT

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2008 Scholarship Winner: Margaret Richmond

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 16:07:00 GMT

Margaret Richmond is currently a senior at Williams College in Williamstown, Massachusetts. She is double majoring in psychology and economics and is particularly interested in development economics and health issues. She hopes to secure a job in the health sector after graduation, and ultimately go to graduate school in the field of public health or social work. Highlights of Margaret's time in college include studying abroad in London during her junior spring and spending a summer in Austin, Texas interning at a non-profit working with older people.

2007 Scholarship Winner: Anthony Wang

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 16:03:00 GMT

From a letter dated November 26, 2011 from Anthony to The Plano Conservancy for Historic Preservation, Inc.:

"This past May, I graduated from Indiana University in Bloomington with double majors in Finance and Marketing. Although I ended up not majoring in History, some of my favorite classes in college were history, including a Cold War espionage class taught by a former CIA officer who served in the former Soviet Union in the 1980's, and a class that analyzed war and conflict through comic books such as Mavs by Art Spiegelman (Holocaust) and Safe Area Gorazde by Joe Sacco (Balkan Wars).

Currently, I am participating in the Orr Indiana Entreprenurial Fellowship, which is a two year post graduate program that places fellows in high growth companies in Indiana. This summer, IO began working at one of these companies in Indianapolis."

2006 Scholarship Winner: Jeff Kline

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 16:03:00 GMT

Jeff graduated from the University of North Texas in 2009 with a double major in History and Political Science. While at UNT, he was active in Theta Chi Fraternity, Pi Sigma Alpha, Hillel, Order of Omega, National Society of Collegiate Scholars, and the Student Government Association. In the SGA, he served as the Speaker of the Senate, and then the Student Body President his last year. As President, his biggest task was to obtain funding and approval for the new UNT Football Stadium that opened in 2011.

After graduating from UNT in only three years, he started law school at Oklahoma City University, and will graduate from OCU in May 2012. He is currently working for law firm in Oklahoma City, Bays Law Firm, and will be working there after graduation, as well. The practice consists mostly of family law, criminal defense, and personal injury work.

When not attending school or at work, he is actively involved in the local Jewish community where he has taught Religious School to 8th graders, planed and organized events for a young professionals group in OKC, and actively attended services. He was also recently asked to serve on the University of Oklahoma Hillel's Board of Directors.

Jeff is also the President for the Theta Chi Fraternity Alumni Corporation in Oklahoma, planning regular events to keep alumni living in Oklahoma active with the Theta Chi Colony at Oklahoma State University.

From December 2011 to mid-February 2012, he was the campaign manager for a city council campaign in Midwest City, Oklahoma. He is also active in the American Israel Public Affairs Committee as an activist and lobbyist. Aside from being a lawyer, he is currently in the process of starting up a lobbying firm that will practice primarily in Oklahoma City and Washington, D.C.

2005 Scholarship Winner: Michael Pina

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 16:04:00 GMT

From a 2011 letter from Michael to The Plano Conservancy for Historic Preservation, Inc.:

"Since receiving your scholarship, my life has skyrocketed in so many ways. My professional goal was to pursue a career in city planning, and with the help from the Plano Conservancy, I have accomplished that goal.

Upon receiving your scholarship in 2005, I enrolled in the Urban Studies and Planning program at Portland State University in Portland, Oregon. In 2007, I received my Bachelor's Degree in Community Development with a minor in Urban Design.

After graduating, I received my first job as Assistant City Planner for the city of Baker City, a rural ranching community in far Eastern Oregon. While there, I served as the staff liaison to Historic Baker City, Inc.a downtown revitalization organization modeled after the National Trust for Historic Preservation's National Main Street Program. Baker City was founded as a mining town in 1874 and was the largest city between Portland and Salt Lake City at the turn of the century. For decades the gold and mineral mining industry thrived as lavish buildings were erected, until the 1960's when the timber industry took over as the town's primary industry. Today, Baker is a mere shadow of its heyday, but currently has the second largest collection of historic buildings in the state, second to Portland. For two years, I gained valuable experience in this community.

I am now an Assistant City Planner for the City of Ashland, Oregon, a small - but still twice the size of Baker City - tourist town 12 miles from the California border. Ashland as originally founded as a timber mill settlement at the base of the Siskiyou Mountains in 1855. Now, we are home to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, which just celebrated its 76th season. Ashland is committed to historic preservation with four nationally recognized historic districts, historic design standards, and a full-on HIstoric Commission that reviews all Planning Actions within the four historic districts. In my current day-to-day activities, I continuously see the value of historic preservation in small towns, especially living in a beautiful historic town as it provides for the enrichment and a cultural landscape for all to enjoy."

Plano Conservancy

"Cruisin' in the Park" 2012

Tree "Cookie" at Haggard Library

CCHC Recognition

Tree Cookie at Haggard Library

The Interurban Railway Museum

The Role of the Conservancy

Interurban History

Economic Importance

Connecting Past to Present

Kid's Corner!

Kid's Cemetery Scavenger Hunt

Historic Plano: A Walking Tour

Plano's Historic Cemeteries

Video Features Houston RIP Guardians

Haggard Park designated "Lone Star Legacy"

2012 Scholarship

Dallas Child Magazine February 2012

Storytime at The Interurban

Young Cemetery Cleanup

Interurban Museum Field Trips

Make Tracks to the Interurban Railway Museum: Our field trips bring history to life!

Archaeology Fair 2012

Dickens in Downtown 2011

Archaeology Fair 2011

Book: Plano and the Interurban Railway

2011 Scholarship Winner: Amanda Campo

Scholarships

2008 Scholarship Winner: Margaret Richmond

2007 Scholarship Winner: Anthony Wang

2006 Scholarship Winner: Jeff Kline

2005 Scholarship Winner: Michael Pina

Make Tracks to the Interurban Railway Museum:
Our field trips bring history to life!