Visit Huntsville: Sam Houston Memorial Museum and Presidential Library

by Olivia Discon

Welcome back to our “Visit Huntsville” blog series, where we uncover the gems that make our city truly special. This month, we’re thrilled to highlight the Sam Houston Memorial Museum and Republic of Texas Presidential Library. This historic site not only celebrates the life and legacy of one of Texas’s most influential figures but also serves as a vibrant cultural hub for our community.

Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting the museum with my dad. My dad is a history enthusiast, and sharing a piece of Huntsville’s rich heritage with him was an experience I’ll treasure.

The museum itself houses an impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits that paint a vivid picture of Sam Houston’s life. My dad’s favorite artifact of them all was Sam Houston’s dapper jaguar skin vest!

Walking through the museum grounds, we couldn’t help but feel the strong sense of history and reverence that permeates the site. One of the most poignant moments of our visit was seeing the Steamboat House, where Sam Houston passed away.

This tangible link to the past brought history to life for both of us. My dad, being the history nerd that he is, was so moved that he even called my mom to show her the Steamboat House over the phone!

At the time of our visit, LEAP’s photo exhibit, “From the LEAP Lens,” was featured in the gallery of the Walker Education Center. It was a wonderful opportunity to share a photo I took while visiting my first state park, Palo Duro Canyon.

I was very proud to have captured a very special moment, and I was even prouder to share the photo with my dad, among the many other fantastic photos in the exhibit!

The Sam Houston Memorial Museum is more than just a museum; it’s a central component of our community. It provides a space for education and connection. The museum regularly hosts events that bring people together and celebrate our Huntsville community.

They have wonderful exhibits regularly, including the work of John Rogers (whose work we also saw at the Smithsonian)…

…a community photo contest…

…an opportunity for fun…

…and, of course, the preservation of key artifacts, the celebration of which often brings in hundreds of people, including VIPs from all over the state.

The LEAP Ambassadors had the chance to enjoy the “Sundown at Sam’s” music series, a fantastic way to start the summer, wind down, and enjoy the arts in a new way with our favorite people. It was a beautiful testament to how the arts and history intertwine to better our lives today.

Currently on display is the Cafe Raven exhibit, which Cinthia Villarreal and I recently had the pleasure of attending (and participating in) the opening reception.

This exhibit shines a light on a historic Huntsville business that holds a special place in the hearts of many residents.

The attention to detail and the stories captured in the exhibit transported us back in time, allowing us to appreciate the rich tapestry of Huntsville’s past.

In my eyes, the exhibit is a testament to the museum’s dedication to preserving and celebrating our local history.

If you haven’t yet visited the Sam Houston Memorial Museum and Presidential Library, I highly recommend taking the time to explore this community jewel. Whether you’re a history buff, a music lover, or simply looking for a peaceful place to reflect (with the exception of the occasional rooster), the museum offers something for everyone.

It’s a cornerstone of our community, a place where the past meets the present, and where we can all find hope for the future.

Stay tuned for next month’s edition of “Visit Huntsville,” where we’ll uncover another local treasure that makes our city unique. Until then, happy exploring!