What do we mean by Hill Country Heritage?
In other words, “What’s the big idea behind the Heart of the Hills Heritage Museum?” Are we looking for heroes? Are we creating an origin story? Are we sharing our current stories?
For example, Francisco Lemos is honored as part of our local heritage because Lemos Drive is named after him. Photo courtesy of Joe Herring Jr.
We have been asking ourselves these questions lately, and maybe you can help us answer it. After gathering over 250 story topics from community members and leaders at our community summit in January 2023, several board members formed a story committee and identified five overarching themes connecting Kerr County stories.
“Five themes will guide our museum’s .... collections, exhibits, programs, and special events.”
These five themes will guide our museum’s interpretive framework as we develop our collections, exhibits, programs, and special events. Now we are wondering what’s the big idea that sums up Kerr County history and describes it best in a catchy phrase. Check out the themes and see if the big idea jumps out to you. Share your ideas with us and let’s see if we can come up with the big idea together.
The beauty of the Guadalupe River and the surrounding Hill Country is a source of inspiration, well-being, and pride. Nature inspires people to visit as tourists, campers, and hunters, and settle here as residents and/or retirees.
Native peoples and early settlers persevered in a harsh environment with limited natural resources to make a living, and sustain themselves, their families, and the growing community. Residents today continue to utilize the river and natural environment for economic development.
Our community cares deeply about maintaining a small-town culture and a high quality of life with opportunities for young and old. Preserving a treasured history and heritage in the face of growth and change brings community members together.
Health and wellness are high priorities for area residents. Clean air and mild climate encouraged those suffering from tuberculosis to come here to heal and establish the city as a healthcare center that continues to attract people to the area today.
Kerrville has a robust creative economy, and there is an unusually strong arts and cultural community in the surrounding Hill Country for an area its size. Our innovative businesses and notable discoveries continue the entrepreneurial spirit of Kerrville settlers.
