President's Corner
Richard Harrison
Dear Members and Supporters:
We are all aware that many of the founders and loyal supporters of the SWH National Alumni Association have passed on or are facing health challenges that limit their ability to serve. Our mission is to ensure that the heritage and legacy established by these icons continue. To achieve this, we must recruit new members and supporters to secure the future legacy of Samuel Walker Houston and Sam Houston High School.
Working in conjunction with the SWH Museum and Cultural Center in 2025, over the last year we were able to sponsor several significant events that were important to the community. We conduct an annual Black History Program in February where we honor local business leaders who shared their experiences in overcoming the hardships that they endured in the workplace. In 2025 we initiated the annual 19th of June celebration that will be actually celebrated on June 19th. We believe that if St. Patrick's day is celebrated on March 17th, July 4th is celebrated on July 4th, then if we really want to honor our liberation day, then we should celebrate it on June 19th.
We have monthly Bingo games as a community relationship building exercise for seniors and anyone interested in participating. Often their are guest speakers that share a wealth of information on identity thief prevention, access to federals, state, and local programs that provide seniors assistance with home repairs, personal assistance devices, accident awareness and prevention. The information was well received by the participants and look forward to our monthly presentation.
In closing I'd like to say thank you to the dedicated alumni members that are working tirelessly to ensure that the 2026 Bi-Annual reunion is a success and they deserve our upmost respect. Also I'm asking that *you* -- our fellow alumni members -- come to our aid. Drop by 1604 10th street Huntsville TX, or contact Linda Moten (msmoten@att.net), Deborah Gilbert (debgilbert@sbglobal.net), Deloris Tarver (tarverdelois@yahoo.com), Sarah Houston (jaq75@att.net).
Thankfully yours,
Richard Harrison
Preserving the history and legacy of Samuel Walker Houston
Message from the President
February 27, 2024
Richard Harrison
Over the past three years the Museum & Cultural Center has experienced a change in leadership and focus. Although the mission has changed, the goal is the same. The Cultural Center is enthusiastic in implementing programs to enrich the general welfare of the community; by hosting activites that found favor with the community in previous years, and adding new events.
In 2024 we introduced Bingo through the "Sunshine Network" that has been highly receptive by the community. Along with playing Bingo, we have guest speakers that speak on a variety of subjects to participants. Ranging from how to avoid fraud, to being aware of your surroundings while shopping or traveling. Also, there are speakers scheduled to bring awareness to seniors and other community members concerning programs offered by the government to help in everyday living. In 2025, we are welcoming all domino players to take part in weekly games at the center. Plans also are in the making to hold line dancing classes at the Center.
The plan to build a facility on Williams Road off HWY 30 is still ongoing. The final design for the slab has been approved and presented to the Board of Directors to seek funding. While the current governmental administration has put a hold on the issuing of federal grants, there are opportunities available through private and public organizations.
A facility of our own has the potential ability to generate enough income to support itself and provide revenue to support the Cultural Center and Museum on 10th Street. To achieve our goal, will take hard work and dedication by the Board of Directors, the Alumni and the community. Together we can achieve the goal envisioned by the alumni so many years.
Sincerely,
Richard Harrison
President of the Board of Directors
Interim Director of the Museum and Cultural Center.
Suggestions, comments, and questions can be directed to me at:
(936) 295-2119
email: swhhs@gmail.com
Samuel Walker Houston Museum & Cultural Center
1604 10th Street
Huntsville, Tx 77340
(936) 295-2119
Preserving the history & legacy of Samuel Walker Houston