Brazoria County Citizens Travel to Washington for Historical Contributions

FOR RELEASE: May 18, 2000

Surfside, Texas - Congressman Ron Paul recently recognized the citizens of Brazoria County for their contributions to the "Local Legacies" program, a cornerstone of the 200th anniversary celebration of the Library of Congress. The Library is hosting a reception on May 23rd in Washington, D.C., honoring the citizens who participated in the program.

The Library of Congress selected more than 1,000 "Local Legacies" projects that are representative of local communities in the United States. The collection of visual, audio and written information will be permanently preserved at the Library for future generations illustrating what America was like at the end of the 20th century.

Four different projects were submitted from Brazoria County.

Freeport Museum Director Derrick Wesley submitted numerous photos of historical facilities such as the original post office and jail.

Emma-Jean Tanner coordinated the re-dedication ceremony of Stephen F. Austin’s death site in Brazoria and submitted a video.

Beth Griggs submitted brochures, historical scrapbooks and photos entitled "West Columbia: First Capital of the Republic of Texas."

"Bells Across America", a program from West Columbia that celebrates the Constitution, was also submitted.

Paul said, "As a resident of Brazoria County, I’m very proud to see all of this historical documentation that will be on display permanently for all to see. I’m honored to live in a county that is so rich in history and was so influential in the creation of our democracy. I commend all of the citizens of Brazoria County who participated in the ‘Local Legacies’ program for their efforts to preserve and display our heritage."