Historic Houston

FOREWORD
When Barbara and I moved to Houston 38 years ago, we were immediately impressed by the
city that we came to call home. Even as newcomers, we immediately discovered a wonderful sense
of community and admired the energy and vision with which Houston’s leaders and citizens
worked together to build a dynamic city.
Through my travels around the country and the world, I’ve proudly learned that Houston’s reputation
for excellence and spirit is widespread. We are known for many things, including worldclass
medical facilities with their miraculous accomplishments in the field of healing; the Johnson
Space Center which has contributed so much to exploration and knowledge of the universe; the
incredible man-made port which has made Houston an important trading center; the petrochemical,
engineering, and technological industries, which stagger the imagination; the many cultural
opportunities, ranging from the ballet and theater to the great rodeo and livestock show; and the
wide variety of sports events.
But at the top of this impressive list of assets must be the people themselves. A highly-diverse
group of people call Houston home, but they all have at least one very important trait in common:
Texas hospitality and friendliness.
The history of Houston stands out as a unique example to the world of what can be accomplished
through American enterprise and ingenuity. It is an amazing story that needs to be told and
one that every Houstonian needs to know. The importance of the past cannot be overestimated.
What has gone before is a foundation for the future. As we prepare for the approaching new century,
it is especially important that our past be recognized and preserved for future generations.
I commend the Greater Houston Preservation Alliance for producing Historic Houston in order
that all Houstonians will have an increased opportunity to learn about the extraordinary heritage
that is ours. As we continue along the path blazed by those who have gone before, let us commit
to building on our rich history in order to create a stronger, more dynamic, and even greater city
for tomorrow.
George Bush