In places
like Independence, preservation can be used to encourage a strong sense of place and connect us with our heritage.
Tour Exhibit
Seward Plantation
Bethlehem Lutheran Church in William Penn
Historic preservation is important to the vitality and development of Texas communities. The goal of the Independence Preservation Trust is to work with the local community to discover, identify, and preserve its visual and cultural links to the past. We hope this will foster a greater appreciation of Independence’s rich past and preservation of its rural character.
Established in 1999 by Mary and David Wolff, the Independence Preservation Trust is a private non-profit foundation. In the short period of its existence, the Trust has sponsored a variety of programs, including:
A walking and driving tour featuring illustrated interpretive exhibits
that
tell the history of Independence.
Baylor Park on Windmill Hill developed in partnership with Baylor University
and dedicated in March 2006.
“Trees for Independence” that added 35 live oak trees to the village landscape via donations from individual contributors.
Architectural night lighting of five historic churches in the Independence neighborhood, made possible by the cooperative efforts of the churches, numerous donors, and the Trust.
Acquisition of two historic properties, most particularly the General Jerome B. Robertson House, and transferring them for a nominal fee to individuals for restoration.
Working with the Texas Department of Transportation to improve road and traffic safety in this little village that is intersected by two busy roadways (50 and 390).
Trimming trees throughout the neighborhood.
Marker recognition for Liberty Baptist Church, the historic African American church in Independence, in conjunction with the Independence Historical Society and the church.
Nationally recognized preservation consultant Ellen Beasley worked with the
Independence Preservation Trust
in developing and researching these projects.
Information about the Trust can be obtained by contacting: info@independencetx.com
or by writing Independence Preservation Trust,
Twenty Briar Hollow Lane, Houston, Texas 77027-2893.
Phone 713-626-8050 or 1-888-626-8051.
Documentary photo: The Texas Collection, Baylor University. Baylor Dedication photo: Baylor Photography. Masthead photo: Jeff Heger Photography. Night photo: Scott Hill, Brenham Portrait Gallery. Other photos: Ellen Beasley.
