Waco History

Educational platform run by the Baylor University Institute for Oral History in partnership with The Texas Collection.

[Baylor University @Baylor]

#Juneteenth commemorates the day news of the U.S.' abolition of slavery finally reached Texas -- June 19, 1865.

If you're in town, join in one of Waco's many celebrations:

https://t.co/4qHFEcnef7

[Baylor University @Baylor]

Baylor's Texas Collection officially celebrates its 100th birthday today!

Established in 1923, the Texas Collection is now one of the world's largest collections of its kind, with millions of items documenting the history & culture of our home state:

https://t.co/fA9xxk6PkR

[Waco History @WacoHistory]

Did you know that Tina Turner performed in Walker’s Auditorium?

Musical acts such as Ike and Tina Turner, James Brown, B.B King, and Etta James, played Walker’s Auditorium when they traveled through Texas in the 1950s and 60s

Full story: https://t.co/nJfZIj59nR

#wacohistory

[Waco History @WacoHistory]

Are you interested in learning about the importance of preserving the past and how Waco is taking the steps to preserve its historic structures?

Then, register for the Historic Preservation Workshop!

Click the link below for more information:
https://t.co/yRqhnWwxzF

[Waco History @WacoHistory]

As part of America’s major interstate highway system, I-35 has left an indelible impact on the city of Waco, prompting dramatic shifts in Waco’s economy, neighborhoods, and aesthetic landscape.

Click here for the full story: https://t.co/3tLZQvvBNf
#wacotx #wacohistory

[Waco History @WacoHistory]

This collection of vintage Christmas cards from The Texas Collection gives us a glimpse into how people commemorated Christmas in the early twentieth century.

Images courtesy of The Texas Collection, Baylor University.
#wacohistory #wacotx #TexasCollection

[Waco History @WacoHistory]

Centered in Waco as one of the nation’s premier shops for hand-crafted cowboy hats, Standard Hat Works has been serving customers from near and far for over 100 years.

Link: https://t.co/NRygPtvWSn

#wacotx #waco

[Waco History @WacoHistory]

Baylor University and TCU have a long-standing football rivalry, but TCU also has roots right here in Waco!

Texas Christian University called various Texas cities—including Waco—home for many years before settling in Fort Worth.

Full story: https://t.co/kzWx77EMXA

#wacotx

[Waco History @WacoHistory]

In Texas, voters elected African American legislators throughout Reconstruction, including fifty-two at the state level. Comprised of farmers, businessmen, preachers, teachers, and lawyers, each of these men had different backgrounds.

Full Story: https://t.co/VDYoKFojY6
#waco

[Waco History @WacoHistory]

City and Baylor leaders envisioned a structure that would serve as an auditorium for both the community and university. These plans turned into Waco Hall!

Read more about the history of Waco Hall at: https://t.co/WThdC0N0bv
#waco #Baylor #wacohistory

[Waco History @WacoHistory]

For nearly a century, Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home has provided funeral care to McLennan County, priding themselves on not only offering funeral arrangements, but on serving families during times of grief.

To read the full story, click the link: https://t.co/rHs5nSdOTu

[Waco History @WacoHistory]

Happy Homecoming Week Bears!

For over a century, the Baylor University Homecoming Parade has played an important role in the relationship between the institution, it’s alumni, and the greater Waco community.

To read the full story, click the link:
https://t.co/40bS5oOE2X

[Waco History @WacoHistory]

It’s time for the Heart O’ Texas Fair and Rodeo!

If you’re interested in learning about the history of the fair and rodeo, click the link!

https://t.co/RZ6Ea8enV7

[Waco History @WacoHistory]

Did you know Elvis Presley visited Waco?

In October of 1956 he performed at the Heart O’ Texas Coliseum!

Read more on Waco History's website: https://t.co/KKvb3wm76S

[Waco History @WacoHistory]

#DoYouKnow the history behind Waco favorite Vitek's?
For over 100 years, Vitek’s Grocery and, now, BBQ restaurant, has remained a cherished business in the Waco area, providing residents with quality meats and a community gathering place.

Learn more https://t.co/Me7GpbEhiN

[Waco History @WacoHistory]

Since 1920, 4 generations of the Castillo family have shared delicious Tex-Mex food with Waco. The current La Fiesta restaurant preserves Antonio Castillo’s original vision by serving up fresh ingredients, family recipes, and a lively atmosphere.
Story: https://t.co/KpbhXyngwi

[Waco History @WacoHistory]

During the early 70s, the rhythms of Austin’s acclaimed music scene reverberated through McLennan County from Bellmead’s Abraxas Club. Until the club’s founding, Waco had remained relatively closed off to the music thriving culture in Austin.

Learn More: https://t.co/3KGmOTcbOb

[Waco History @WacoHistory]

In September 1920, the Cameron family purchased 191 acres of land between Cameron Park and Lovers’ Leap.

Read more about Cameron Park on Waco History's website: https://t.co/h0kkaJJe0X

[Waco History @WacoHistory]

#OTD in 1889, the Waco Suspension Bridge became toll free. Built just at the edge of the business section of the city at First and Main, the Suspension Bridge stimulated Waco's growth by providing a steady stream of traffic through the city.

Full story: https://t.co/2kSd42BGRG

[Waco History @WacoHistory]

Though frequently overshadowed (literally and figuratively) by the slightly older ALICO building, Waco boasts another notable early twentieth century skyscraper: the Praetorian.

Full story: https://t.co/sUeBHRJvL1
Images courtesy of The Texas Collection, Baylor University.