The East Texas Oil Museum at Kilgore College will host the East Texas History Summit, set for Jan. 25 in the Anne Dean Turk Fine Arts Center on the Kilgore campus

This one-day event promises to be a memorable experience for history enthusiasts, educators, students and community members alike, offering an in-depth look at the diverse and fascinating history of Texas.

The summit will feature a lineup of dynamic speakers, each covering a unique aspect of Texas history –  from genealogy and historic preservation – to the cultural legacies of Texas communities.

Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from experts in the field, ask questions and engage in meaningful discussions surrounding the state’s rich historical tapestry.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025
• Time: Registration and seating from noon to 1 p.m. Lectures will begin at 1 p.m., followed by a Q&A panel. The event will end around 5 p.m.
• Location: Kilgore College, Anne Dean Turk Fine Arts Center, Van Cliburn Auditorium (1200 Henderson Blvd., Kilgore, TX 75662)
• Parking: Available at the East Texas Oil Museum and all lots near the auditorium
• Admission: Admission is free, and no prior registration is required. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis, so attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure their spot.

Featured Speakers:

• Helen Cozart, Librarian, Ranger College: “Creating a History Exhibit to Share Texas Oil Boom Town History”
• Christian Pippins, President, Gregg County Genealogy Society: “How to Start Your Genealogy Journey”
• Jonny Ferguson, Secretary, Kilgore Historical Preservation Foundation: “Failure Is Not An Option: The Apollo Moon Landing Program”
• Portia Scott, Red Rock Historical Association: “The History and Importance of the Red Rock Community”
• Bob Mauldin, Host of Expedition Texas: “The Art of Discovering and Sharing the Hidden Histories of Texas”

For additional information, please contact Olivia Moore, KC museum services director, at (903) 983-8297 or omoore@kilgore.edu.