Land Commissioner Buckingham Announces the GLO Map Book, Texas Takes Shape, Earns Presidio La Bahia Award Recognition

AUSTIN— Today, Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham, M.D. is pleased to announce the Texas General Land Office (GLO) book, Texas Takes Shape: A History of Maps from the General Land Office (University of Texas Press, 2025) was awarded second place for the Presidio La Bahía Award by the Sons of the Republic of Texas (SRT). The SRT bestows this recognition annually to “outstanding published materials that contribute to the preservation and study of Texas history, particularly the Spanish Colonial Period.” The award is a testament to the book’s scholarly value and its impact on public understanding of the story of Texas through the Agency’s map collection.

“I am honored that the Sons of the Republic of Texas—valued partners in preserving and celebrating Texas history—have recognized Texas Takes Shape: A History in Maps from the General Land Office with second place for the 2025 Presidio La Bahía Award,” said Commissioner Dawn Buckingham, M.D. “As a member of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas and a ninth-generation Texan whose family history dates back to the era of Austin’s Colony, I understand the importance of organizations like the SRT and DRT in safeguarding our shared heritage. This recognition reflects the outstanding work of GLO staff, and I am proud of their dedication to telling the story of Texas through its historic maps.”