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Thank you for subscribing to the Texas Heritage Traveler newsletter, a monthly showcase of heritage destinations, events, and unique Lone Star history for the traveling history-lover. Please support the Texas Heritage Trails Program by forwarding this email to family or friends who love to travel or
 Tom Perini stands in front of one of his famous chuckwagons. Photo courtesy of Lisa and Tom Perini
Tucked away in a hay barn outside Buffalo Gap, Tom Perini built a steakhouse that became a legend. Not by chasing trends, but by staying true to cowboy cooking and Texas tradition. For more than 40 years, Perini Ranch has been where mesquite smoke carries stories of the trail, where green chile hominy rivals the ribeye, and where hospitality feels as natural as a handshake at the front gate.
 A bone-in ribeye from Dunston's Steakhouse located in Dallas. Photo Credit Dunston's Steakhouse
Across the Lone Star State, you'll find steakhouses where the flavors are bold, the stories run deep, and the buildings themselves are a slice of history. From a limestone-clad 1800s home in Salado to a West Texas ranch with sweeping desert views, here are a few treasured steakhouses across the 10 Texas Heritage Trail Regions that serve up more than just a meal—they serve up a legacy.
 Dancers performing ballet folklorico, a traditional Mexican folk dance with ballet elements. Contributed photo
Hispanic heritage is woven into the fabric of everyday life in Texas, from the flavors on our plates to the names of our cities and streets. The spirit of being a Texan, a sense of pride and community, can also be traced back to Hispanic roots. After all, Texas was once Mexico, and its history and culture remain inseparable.
Each fall, Hispanic Heritage Month begins on September 15, marking the independence of five Central American nations—Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica—from Spain. The following day, September 16, or “El Dieciseis de Septiembre,” commemorates Mexico’s own call for independence, when Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla rang the church bell that sparked the fight for freedom.
Texas offers countless ways to experience this legacy firsthand. Pride, hospitality, and a deep respect for tradition live on in historic places, vibrant festivals, and the shared tables of family kitchens. Whether exploring mission sites or joining in a celebration, you'll quickly discover how Hispanic culture has molded, and continues to shape, life across the Lone Star State.
 Members of a Chicago, Rock Island, and Gulf railroad survey crew pose with survey tools, 1902.
Take our short survey and help us make this newsletter even better for heritage travelers like you. Your two minutes of time will help us shape where we head next (figuratively, and maybe literally).
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Nominate a Historic Business
San Antonio-based Bolner's Fiesta Products, Inc. was founded in 1955. The company produces a wide range of spices and seasonings, and many a Texan claims their "Uncle Chris' Gourmet Steak Seasoning" is the best you can get. More than 700 Texas businesses have been honored for their historic significance with a Texas Treasure Business Award. Nominate your longtime favorite today!
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Upcoming Regional Events
Exploring Texas regionally is a great way to plan your travel across the state or organize day trips if you are staying in one community for several days. Click here to see all regions Explore Regions | Texas Time Travel
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Lakes Trail Region
September 5-6: Ike's History Festival, Denison
Join the Eisenhower Birthplace State Historic Site for two days of hands-on history fun! From 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., historic and nature-based organizations from around the state will bring what they do best to Denison. Admission for the festival is $3 per person (children 5 and under free). This admission includes a tour of the Birthplace; tours are offered at their regularly scheduled times and availability is limited. Come and explore the wonders of Texas with activities and displays great for kids and adults alike.
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Tropical Trail Region
September 5-9: Discover Bessie III Trolley Tour, Rio Grande City
Explore the sights and stories of Rio Grande City on the Bessie III Trolley Tour! Tour times are Monday through Friday at 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., but reservations must be made at least one day in advance—no reservations, no trolley.
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Brazos Trail Region
September 6: From Clay Tablets to Parlor Presses, Bryan
Madeline Keyser, the Book Arts and Historic Pressroom Librarian at Cushing Library, will trace the evolution of book history and book arts program. At the end of the event, attendees will be able to print a keepsake on a handcrafted replica of a 19th century printing press.
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Mountain Trail Region
September 6: Cooking Class: Empanadas, El Paso
Join us at Magoffin Home State Historic Site as we savor history through foods in El Paso! Using historic recipes, site staff will explore the contributions of Spanish explorers from the 16th century. Using a dough and fruit filling, this simple pastry is a staple in El Paso. Empanadas have a long history and were introduced to our region from Spain. All ingredients are provided. Please call (915) 533-5147 to register in advance as space is limited.
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Forts Trail Region
September 10: Fort Concho Speaker Series, San Angelo
Experience “The Jumano Picture Story of the Lady in Blue at Meyers Spring, Texas” by Tom Ashmore & CA Maegden. The Fort Concho Speaker Series will return this year from noon to 1 p.m. each Wednesday this September. Each presentation will take place in the Fort Concho Commissary, 702 Burgess St. Admission is free and open to the public.
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Pecos Trail Region
September 12: Barrio Fest, Fort Stockton
Barrio Fest, a celebration of Hispanic culture hosted by the Fort Stockton Community Theatre, unites the community through historical tours, educational stations, family reunions, and business showcases.
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Plains Trail Region
September 12-20: Tri-State Fair & Rodeo, Amarillo
Since 1923, the Tri-State Fair & Rodeo and Tri-State Fairgrounds has been a cornerstone of Amarillo and the greater Texas Panhandle. What started as a small stock show has grown into a nine-day celebration of agriculture, education, entertainment, and community.
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Hill Country Trail Region
September 20: From Garden to Table, San Antonio
Join us as at Casa Navarro State Historic Site as we cook with fresh vegetables from our fall garden—including tomatoes, chilies, and corn—while exploring the traditions and flavors that connect us to the land. Visitors can watch, learn, and enjoy the aromas of fall as history comes alive in the kitchen.
This event is free with regular admission.
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Independence Trail Region
September 26: 2025 Kolache Fest, Hallettsville
Join us for Hallettsville’s 30th Annual Kolache Festival. It is a fun-filled celebration of Czech heritage, community, and delicious kolaches! Enjoy a wide variety of events and activities for all ages, including: Domino Tournament, BBQ & Chili Cook-Off, Classic Car Show, Parade, Pie Eating & Baking Contests, freshly made kolaches and more!
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