Now on view at the Lorenzo de Zavala State Archives and Library Building in Austin. This exhibit spotlights some of the areas where Texans’ contributions shine especially bright—true Texas icons that remind all Americans of the 28th state. From cowboys to astronauts, from Beaumont to Big Bend, the United States would not be what it has become without Texas. Visit TSLAC in 2026 and revisit iconic moments from Texas history as documented by key artifacts from the State Archives’ collections, from early 20th century spurs and cowbells to the State of Texas Medal of Valor presented to Apollo 11 astronauts Neil Armstrong, Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin, and Michael Collins by Governor Preston Smith in 1971. Learn more about Texas music, the energy industry, politics, and the outdoors through historic photographs, artifacts, maps, sheet music, documents, printed volumes, postcards, and state records. Texas America250 will be on view throughout 2026 at the Lorenzo de Zavala State Archives and Library Building, 1201 Brazos Street, next door to the Capitol in downtown Austin. Exhibit hours in TSLAC’s lobby gallery are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and the second Saturday of each month, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
