Archives: Events

Thomas Jefferson Living History Program

 Sunday, July 5th, 2026 :: 3:00pm - 4:00pm
 Barnhill Center at Historic Simon Theatre
 Event Details

The Washington County Historical Commission is proud to partner with The Barnhill Center to present a special presentation of a Thomas Jefferson living-history presentation on Sunday, July 5th at 3pm at The Barnhill Center in Brenham.

Celebrate the 250th anniversary of American independence with a remarkable living-history presentation featuring an actor portraying Thomas Jefferson. In this engaging and inspiring program, “Jefferson” will take audiences back to the summer of 1776 and describe, in his own words, how he drafted the Declaration of Independence — the ideas that shaped it, the debates that surrounded it, and the enduring principles of liberty that continue to define America today. Perfect for history lovers, students, and patriotic Americans of all ages, this special America 250 event offers a rare opportunity to experience the birth of the nation through the eyes of one of its Founding Fathers.

Chappell Hill Independence Day Parade

 Saturday, July 4th, 2026 :: 10:00am - 11:00am
 Chappell Hill Chamber of Commerce
 Event Details

Celebrate 250 years of American independence at the “Biggest Little Small Town Parade” in Texas! Head to downtown Chappell Hill this July 4th for a patriotic celebration like no other. Enjoy the famous Marching Kazoo Band, amazing parade entries, and a small town tradition with big spirit. Face painter, food trucks, live music by Rob Moorman & Company, and Paul Revere’s Scavenger Hunt immediately following the parade. Over $850 in prize money.

1850 Independence Day Picnic

 Saturday, July 4th, 2026 :: 10:00am - 4:00pm
 Barrington Living History Farm
 Event Details

Join us for an 1850s style Independence Day celebration! bring your own picnic basket to Barrington and enjoy al-fresco dining, then try your hand at some yard games and races (don’t miss the “pig bladder” toss)! Next, head over to Independence Hall for an ongoing game of “rounders” (like baseball), with hourly readings of the Declaration of Independence followed by musket salutes! Contact Barrington-Plantation@thc.texas.gov or 936-878-2214 x.248 for more information.

The Juneteenth Griot at the Brenham Heritage Museum

 Sunday, June 28th, 2026 :: 2:00pm - 4:00pm
 Brenham Heritage Museum
 Event Details

🎉 Celebrate Juneteenth at the Brenham Heritage Museum! 🎉

Join us for a FREE special guest performance by Kijana Wiseman, M.Ed.: The Juneteenth Griot!

📅 Sunday, June 28, 2026
⏰ 2:00–4:00 PM
📍 Brenham Heritage Museum | 105 South Market Street, Brenham, TX 77833

Experience an unforgettable afternoon of storytelling, music, and living history as Kijana brings the spirit of Juneteenth to life.

What is a Griot?
A griot (GREE-oh) is a West African historian, storyteller, musician, and poet who preserves culture and history through spoken word and song. Kijana Wiseman is an internationally traveled performer and educator who has performed in 23 countries across 3 continents, sharing powerful stories that honor heritage and inspire future generations.

✨ Refreshments provided
🎶 Powerful storytelling & song
🖤 A celebration of freedom & heritage
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Fun for all generations

Mat & Savanna Shaw

 Saturday, June 27th, 2026 :: 7:00pm - 9:00pm
 Barnhill Center at Historic Simon Theatre
 Event Details

This amazing father/daughter duo performs favorite uplifting songs for America’s 250th birthday. Good Morning America said, “this father-daughter duo’s music is bringing hope.” Their eight albums hit the top 10 across iTunes and Amazon charts, and #1 on worldwide Billboard charts.

Tickets: $80 – $95

Annual Judge Eddie E. Harrison Juneteenth Heritage Celebration

 Saturday, June 27th, 2026 :: 11:00am - 5:00pm
 Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site
 Event Details

Join us for our Annual Judge Eddie E. Harrison Juneteenth Heritage Celebration!

This year’s focus will be Charting New Ground: African American Trailblazers.

In addition to the speakers there will be Cultural Heritage Booths, Food Vendors, and Craft Vendors in the Conference Center.

Schedule of Events:

11:30-12:15 Welcome and Prayer/Millican MBC Choir “Lift Every Voice and Sing”

12:15-12:45 Speaker, Dr. Christine Nix 1st Female African American Texas Ranger

1:00-2:00 Performance by the Fantasy Band

2:15-2:45 Speaker, Lori A. Moore Bartley, Descendant of TX State Senator Matthew Gaines

2:45-3:15 Performance by Christina Williams

3:30-4:00 Speaker Tabitha W. Snoddy, Descendant of TX Congressman R.J. Moore

4:15-4:45 Performance by Tamesha Pruett-Ray