Sons of the Republic of Texas invite public to celebrate Texas’ 190th anniversary 

WASHINGTON, TEXAS — The Sons of the Republic of Texas (SRT) cordially invite the public  to attend the 2026 Texas Independence Day Celebration, commemorating the 190th  anniversary of the birth of the Republic of Texas, Monday, March 2, at the historic  Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site Amphitheater in Washington, Texas.

The ceremony will begin at 1:30 p.m. and will feature the Honorable Lois Kolkhorst, Texas  State Senator for District 18, as the keynote speaker.

“As a proud sixth-generation Texan, born and raised where Texas became Texas, it is an  honor to be part of this special 190th anniversary of Texas Independence,” said Senator  Kolkhorst. “The indomitable courage of the fearless men – and women – who fought for the  Republic of Texas stands as a powerful reminder of their relentless pursuit of  independence. We must honor their sacrifices and never forget their bold defiance against  tyranny, as their legacy fuels our ongoing quest for liberty.”

Other dignitaries in attendance will include Texas State Representative Trey Wharton,  District 12; Washington County Judge John Durrenberger; Washington-on-the-Brazos State  Historic Site Manager Jon Failor; descendants of the signers of the Texas Declaration of  Independence; members of the Sons of the Republic of Texas and the Daughters of the  Republic of Texas; and a ceremonial delivery of the Travis Letter from the Alamo.

The Navasota “Rattler” High School Band, under the direction of David Holland, will  perform multiple selections. A rifleman color guard will present the colors and fire rifle  salutes, and Rolling Thunder will fire ceremonial cannon salutes.

This annual event honors the signing of the Texas Declaration of Independence in 1836 and  celebrates the courage, vision, and sacrifice of those who secured Texas’ place in history.  Attendees can expect a patriotic program reflecting on the legacy of the Republic and the  enduring spirit of Texas independence.

The event is organized and hosted by the Sons of the Republic of Texas – Lone Star Chapter. The SRT is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the memory and ideals of the  Republic of Texas.

The public is encouraged to attend and take part in this meaningful commemoration at the  very site where Texas independence was declared.

Event Details: 

Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site Amphitheater 

Monday, March 2, 2026

1:30 p.m. 

Keynote Speaker: Senator Lois Kolkhorst, District 18 

For more information, please contact Michael D Wilson at mdwilson2929@gmail.com

Other Sons of the Republic of Texas – Texas Independence Day Celebrations around  the State include: 

• David Crockett Chapter (Granbury) – The chapter proudly invites the public to attend its  Seventh Annual Texas Independence Celebration on Saturday, February 28, at the Historic  Hood County Courthouse on the Granbury Square.

This free, family-friendly event will honor Texas’ rich heritage through engaging  presentations and exhibits highlighting the legacy of the American colonists, the events  leading to the founding of the Republic of Texas in 1836, and Texas’ journey to becoming the  28th state in the Union.

The celebration will feature historical exhibits from the Texas Revolutionary period and a  special reading of The Men at the Alamo by the book’s author.

Doors open at 10 a.m. for guests to explore exhibits. The formal program begins at 11 a.m.  and concludes at noon. All attendees will receive a complimentary booklet containing both  the U.S. Constitution and the Texas Constitution. Admission is free and open to the public.

• San Jacinto Chapter (Houston) – An observance and toast will take place at the Sam  Houston statue in Hermann Park in Houston at 9:30AM on March 2.
• Sam Houston Chapter (Katy) – A flag placement ceremony will be conducted at the  grave of Mirabeau Lamar in Morton Cemetery in Richmond, Texas, at 10 a.m. on March 2.  This will mark the 33rd consecutive year of this observance. The ceremony, which lasts  approximately 45 minutes, is led by Dennis Giuffré, KSJ. All are welcome to attend.
• East Texas – Members of several chapters, including the Piney Woods and James George  chapters will participate in the Alamo Letter Society plaque dedication on the east lawn of  the Houston County Courthouse at 10 AM on March 2. The courthouse is located at 401 E.  Houston Avenue in Crockett.
• HL Kinney Chapter (Corpus Christi) – The Sons of the Republic of Texas will join the  Daughters of the Republic of Texas for a toast from 1:00 to 2:00PM at 3700 Ocean Drive in  Corpus Christi.

About the SRT 

The Sons of the Republic of Texas is dedicated to preserving the memory and spirit of those  who fought for and maintained Texas’ independence. Membership is open to male  descendants of Republic of Texas residents. For more information, visit www.srttexas.org.