FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Austin, TX
January 20, 2026

Austin, TX – As the country celebrates 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, Texas joins in recognizing this significant occasion with special events and activities statewide. On Jan. 26, the Texas State Library and Archives Commission (TSLAC) will open Texas America250, a new exhibit in the Lorenzo de Zavala Archives and Library Building in Austin, spotlighting areas where Texans’ contributions to our history really shine. The Lone Star State has long been home to creativity, ingenuity and dynamic collaborations that have generated unique sounds and scenes in the arts and led to groundbreaking energy, science and research capabilities, benefiting the entire nation.

“After distributing Texas America250 traveling exhibits to every library system in Texas, we’re inviting folks to visit the State Archives here in Austin and explore an expanded version of the exhibit featuring original artifacts of our state’s history,” said TSLAC’s Assistant State Librarian Tim Gleisner. “We’ll have historic maps, a look at Texas’ music heritage and as a site for innovation, and so much more—something for everyone to appreciate what Texas has brought to the table as we recognize this important milestone.” 

Items from our collections show the vast natural resources and beauty of the landscape, images of politicians and presidents, and documents that preserve the record of government action. From cowboys to astronauts, from Beaumont to Big Bend, the country would not be what it has become without Texas.

Texas America250 opens Jan. 26 in the lobby of the Lorenzo de Zavala Archives and Library and Building in the Capitol Complex in Austin and is free and open to the public throughout 2026. Hours are Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and the second Saturday of each month from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The exhibit is also available online at www.tsl.texas.gov/texasamerica250exhibit.

###

The Texas State Library and Archives Commission provides Texans access to the information needed to be informed, productive citizens by preserving the archival record of Texas; enhancing the service capacity of public, academic and school libraries; assisting public agencies in the maintenance of their records; and meeting the reading needs of Texans with disabilities. For more information, visit www.tsl.texas.gov.