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You don’t have to have a history degree to become an historian for the Historical Museum of Bridge City. In fact, anyone with an interest in the preservation of the area’s distant and recent past can contribute. The organization is looking for ‘history buffs’ to help tell the story of the community.

Volunteers are needed for the collection, documentation and storage of historical information and artifacts, conduct interviews, compile images and help record the history and lore of the Bridge City and Orangefield areas. Volunteers can also contribute as researchers, writers, artists and even- “American Pickers.”

“This is the first of it’s kind, broad based effort here to collect and accurately chronicle the history of our community,” said Darrell Segura, a committee chairman, “We want to create a data base of information and images from as many sources that are available. Anyone interested can participate.”

Family histories, historical documents, letters and photographs are also among items being sought. Volunteer hours, contributions and donations are tax deductible.

Volunteers are also needed for history and heritage appreciation programs. Paige Williams chairs the committee formed to work with schools and civic organizations to present programs, plan events and create folk life projects in observance of state and local history.

“We have some good things planned and welcome community involvement and participation,” Williams said, “We are creating local history coloring books and other ways of getting students involved in historic preservation. We are also planning an event in October to commemorate the 70th Anniversary of the Cow Bayou Swing Bridge.”

The mission of the organization is to acquire, protect and preserve the community’s historic and prehistoric resources for the use, education, enjoyment and economic benefit to present and future generations.

The Historical Museum of Bridge City is a 501 (C) (3) non-profit organization established in 2009. It’s primary purpose is historic preservation, education and the enhancement of heritage tourism in Bridge City and the surrounding area.

The Historical Museum of Bridge City is being structured according to the Standard and Excellence Programs for History Organizations (StEPs) an affiliate program of the American Association for State and Local History.

Board members include: Claudine Hogan, Executive Director; Mark Dunn, President; Butch Thurman ,Vice President; Paige Williams, Secretary/Treasurer; Darrell Segura Historian; Clark Slacum, Joe Chenella, Elaine Hearn, Donna Riley, Martha Garrett and Debbie Gregg. Leslie Barras and Lon Hubbard are Advisory Board Members. Pastor Paul Zoch is Chaplain.

The Museum shares the ‘Prairie View Teacherage’ building with the Bridge City Chamber of Commerce at 150 West Roundbunch. Those interested in volunteering for the Museum may contact the organization by calling Darrell Segura at 720-9999 or Paige Williams at 738-3743 or any of the board members above.

For more information email: [email protected]