Tarrant County Commissioner Gary Fickes

The Southlake Historical Society presents History Out Your Window, with guest speaker Tarrant County Commissioner Gary Fickes on Sunday, March 30, 2014 in the Southlake Public Library in Southlake Town Hall, 1400 Main, from 2-4 p.m.

In 1992, then-Mayor Fickes placed an ad in the Grapevine Sun newspaper asking resident to join him in preserving the area’s rich history for future generations. The Southlake Historical Society was established that same year.

When asked about the city’s past, Commissioner Fickes explained, “The Southlake area has a rich history that is a perfect slice of Americana. It covers pioneer families who settled the Cross Timbers area in the 1840s with daily threats of Indian attacks to the present-day ‘settlers’ who came here for the same reasons…beauty of the land, mild weather and a sense of community.”

Included in the afternoon’s program will be a look at the society’s award-winning website, www.southlakehistory.org, recent recipient of a top prize from the American Association for State and Local History. “Historical societies are stepping into the 21st century with websites that are virtual museums. Families, teachers and students, new residents, area historians can now access the local history that is right out your window,” says SHS president, Connie Cooley. “The Southlake Historical Society’s original mission established over twenty years ago continues today – to promote the preservation, understanding and appreciation of Southlake’s history. We think our website does just that and more. It brings the settling of North Texas to life.”

Also on the program will be the recognition of two longtime SHS members, Mr. Jack Cook and Mr. Jack Wiesman, who both recently passed away. “We cannot say enough about Jack Cook and Jack Wiesman. Their tireless contributions to documenting Southlake’s past were invaluable. Many of the stories, detailed maps, and photographs included in our website are there because of these two men. We will miss them,” explained Mrs. Cooley.

The Sunday afternoon program is a first for the society. “We want very much for families to attend. We think local history knows no age limits, from fourth graders who first learn about Texas history in the classroom to long-time residents, many of whom helped incorporate this rural area into a town. And we’d like to thank the Southlake library – the city’s best place for families – for opening its doors on a Sunday afternoon for our program,” continued Mrs. Cooley.

Activities are planned for children. Refreshments will be served.

Reservations are requested. Please call 817-807-6827 or email Tamara McMillan.