The Harris County Historical Commission and Harris County Commissioners Court will unveil and dedicate the very first Harris County historical marker, honoring "The Founding of Harris County," on Thursday, May 24, at 3 p.m. at the new Harris County Jury Assembly Room and Plaza, located at 1201 Congress Street. Dedication speakers include Judge Mark Davidson, retired judge of the 11th District Court and devoted student of Harris County history, and Scott Southwell, Vice President of The Southwell Company, which has been associated with the Texas historical marker program since its inception 50 years ago.

The event will mark the beginning of Harris County’s new local marker program, which will be administered by the Harris County Historical Commission. This new program will supplement the Texas Historical Commission marker program, to celebrate and further the interest of citizens, visitors, and school children regarding the special and rich history throughout Harris County. The eligibility criteria and documentation requirements for Harris County historical markers are similar to those for state markers, but the county has greater flexibility to collaborate with sponsors on marker content and schedule. For example, the sponsor may choose to include maps, photos, and other graphics on both front and back of Harris County markers. Local Marker applications will be accepted beginning June 15, 2012.