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.
