HISTORICALLY SPEAKING TEXAS PATCH PROGRAM
complete 3 requirements to earn this patch
you can print this page and share it with others

1. Texas is called the "Lone Star State." The name Texas comes from the Caddo Indian word "tejas", which means friends. It is the second largest state in America. Research the stete bird, capital and flower. It is also the only state to have the flags of 6 different nations fly over it. Find out what these six flags were and what the present flag looks like.

2. A variety of Native American tribes occupied what is now Texas. Find out more about the Native Americans that resided there. Such as the Caddos, Korankawas, Apaches or Comanche. What region of Texas did they occupy? How did they prepare their food and what type of housing did they have? Caddos are referenced in the kit.

3. Texas boasts of seven major geographic regions, The Panhandle, Piney Woods, Hill Country, Mountain (Big Bend), Coastal, Valley, and plains. Choose a region to learn more about. Discover places to visit, outdoor activities, resources, weather, or terrain. For extra create a landform map referencing Texas geographic terrains.

4. Discover famous Texans. From singers and actors to cowboys, Texas has produced many outstanding people. Research a famous person, where and when they were born and what they are known for. Some examples are: Willie Nelson, George W. Bush, Carol Burnett, LBJ, Dwight Eisenhower, Buddy Holly, Mary Kay Ash.

5. Black Gold! On January 10, 1901, the Spindletop oilfield was discovered. Where was this discovery located? Who discovered it? For extra find out how oil is refined into other products that we use today. Name two products.

6. Remember the Alamo! The Alamo was a famous battle during the war when Texas won their independence from Mexico. What does “the alamo” mean? Learn more about the Alamo and its site.

7. Texas was settled by large numbers of immigrant families, A variety of cultures helps make Texas an exciting place to visit or live. Choose a country to learn more about that originally settled in Texas and a custom they brought with them that we use today in America. Examples such as Germany and the advent calendar; French and crepes; Mexico and the Fiesta.

8. There are 5,000 species of flowering plants native to Texas. Choose 3 species to learn more about. Learn the color, the when, and where it blooms. Examples are: Dogwood, Chocolate Flower, Foxglove, Indian Blanket or Indian Paintbrushes.

9. Venture on a nature hike, stroll on historical trails, or visit a state park. Complete an activity involving animal or tree discovery; visit a historical or educational site that will enhance your knowledge about the history of Texas.

10. In the 1880's, the first rodeo in the United States was staged in Texas. How and where did it get started? Research more about the rodeo life or visit a ranch, watch a rodeo, ride a horse, or draw a picture of a rodeo event.

11. The Texas State Fair began over 100 years ago to help link the past with the present in a fun filled event. Learn more about one of the folk arts or talents shared at this event. Such as homemade jams, cookies, quilts, dancing, caring for livestock, or horse racing.

12. Texas is a state of many special celebrations. They host over 500 festivals every year. The topics range from Chili Cook-Off's to Cow Calling Contests. Choose a festival to learn more about. Such as the Turkeyfest, Pecan Festival, Bluebonnet Fair, Comanche Pow-Wow and the Fiesta Hidalgo. Find out when it is celebrated and why.

13. In the late 1860s, the first railroads were built through Texas. Find out some other firsts that happened in Texas and when. Such as: First airline, suspension bridge, hamburger, cowboy, cowgirl, and Dr. Pepper© soft drink.

14. Research a historical site, museum or famous landmark of Texas. Such as the Houston-NASA- Space Center, Chisholm Trail, San Antonio World's Fair, the Ft. Worth Stock Yards, the Port of Houston, Route 66, and Tierra del Fuego (the IH 35 Pan Am Hwy).

This patch program will help its participants learn more about the history and sites in this state. If you have the privilege of visiting this state, you can complete some of these requirements there. It would be helpful to learn more about the state prior to your visit. Use the library and the internet to research more.