Press Contact:
Capital project will significantly expand museum exhibit space, restore the battlefield, and improve visitor amenities at the site where Texas won its independence
LA PORTE, TX — The San Jacinto Museum and Battlefield Association, in collaboration with the Texas Historical Commission (THC), has announced a landmark capital project to enhance the San Jacinto Museum and the San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site. The project, which includes a new state-of-the-art visitor’s center and improvements to the historic monument and battleground site, was made possible by a $142 million appropriation from the Texas Legislature.
“This expansion marks a transformative moment for the San Jacinto Museum and Battlefield,” said Amy Rogers, executive director of the San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site and
Museum. “With this investment, we are not only preserving Texas history but also enhancing how we share the story of the Battle of San Jacinto with future Texans.”
Renowned architecture firm Lake Flato Architects, with offices in San Antonio and Austin, has been selected as the lead architect for the new construction, with Lord Aeck Sargent overseeing historic preservation. Gallagher & Associates, a nationally recognized interpretive design firm, will develop the storytelling elements of the project, with landscape architect TBG focusing on restoration and enhancements to the cultural resources within the site’s 1,300 acres.
“This project represents a bold step forward in how we engage the public with the incredible history of Texas independence,” said Mike Lamb, San Jacinto Museum and Battlefield Association board chair. “Our goal is to create an experience that is both educational and deeply meaningful, ensuring that the legacy of San Jacinto remains alive for generations to come.”
The museum’s new facilities will include expanded exhibit spaces, classrooms, and a reimagined visitor center. A portion of the museum’s collection will be showcased in a newly designed exhibition hall. The new facility will integrate cutting-edge technology with the museum’s renowned collection to provide visitors a dynamic and immersive experience.
“Our design approach will honor the history and significance of the site while incorporating modern museum best practices,” said David Lake, lead architect at Lake Flato. “We are committed to creating a space that seamlessly blends with the existing Monument and enhances the visitor experience.”
The capital project also includes updates to the site to restore the 1836 battlefield conditions, with trails and educational signage that will allow visitors to more accurately experience what the Texian and Mexican armies saw and experienced. Restoration efforts are already underway thanks to a generous donation from TxDOT of $1 million worth of work. The removal of trees and underbrush to return the site to a coastal prairie consistent with eyewitness accounts from the battle will be an ongoing effort.
The design phase of the project is currently underway. More details will be shared on the museum website as the project progresses.
Media Resources
For additional information and visuals, please visit the digital press kit here.
About San Jacinto Museum and Battlefield Association
The San Jacinto Museum and Battlefield Association is dedicated to the interpretation and commemoration of the Battle of San Jacinto, its participants, and the site’s significant role in creating Texas as a new Republic. The Association strives to engage and educate the public and encourage historical inquiry; to collect, preserve, and share materials of the historical and cultural significance of the region; to illustrate and tell the chronological story of Texas through educational programming and exhibits; and to promote archaeological and preservation
initiatives at the site.
About Texas Historical Commission
The Texas Historical Commission’s mission is to protect and preserve the state’s historic and prehistoric resources for the use, education, enjoyment, and economic benefit of present and future generations. At 40 historic sites across the state, the Texas Historical Commission invites Texans and visitors to experience firsthand the diverse stories and cultures that impacted the history of the Lone Star State. To learn more, visit www.thc.texas.gov/historicsites.
Download this press release.