Six things we're looking forward to in 2016

We have so many great things in store for you in 2016. This Sunday, we're officially kicking off the new year with our first exhibit featuring local artist Fran Knueppel. If you can't make it to the opening, you're definitely going to want to stop by and marvel at her creations! But back to the calendar: We are super excited about the programs, events and projects on tap for 2016 and we know you will be, too. Our top six, in no particular order:

A Southern Garden Party

 This new event has brought together a wonderful committee made up of very energetic and creative people in the Fort Bend community. The goal is to promote our beautiful Museum site and gorgeous gardens, and at this premier event we are honoring a grand dame of Richmond, Mrs. Billie Wendt, who has been so influential in the success that the Fort Bend Museum has witnessed since its founding almost 50 years ago. A true southern lady will be honored at our Southern Garden Party! May 7. 3-6 p.m. Fort Bend Museum.

Brazos Cultural Heritage Festival

Our new outreach venture, this event will be held in Decker Park and will bring together the diverse cultures that were prominent in Fort Bend County during its formative years, as well as include the new wave of cultures that have helped create one of the most diverse counties in the country.  This will be a fun, family-friendly event with food, drink, and entertainment centered around German, Czech and other cultures. May 21. Decker Park.

Texian Market Days

Last year's Texian Market Days festival was pretty soggy, so we didn't really get our cannon fix for the year! We did, however, get to see Outreach Coordinator Merritt Peele meet his untimely demise at the hands of the early-1800s Mexican army. It's going to be hard to top that, but you'll be able to console yourself with lots of other battle re-enactments, a great selection of artisan vendors and TONS of hands-on activities!. October 22. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the George Ranch Historical Park.

The Restoration of the Moore Home

Plans are underway to restore the interior of the 1883 Moore Home to its Edwardian appearance, which will bring the home back to the beauty and gracefulness of that era. Historically-accurate wallpaper, light fixtures, floor treatments and other furnishings will be carefully edited to provide the tour guests with an experience unlike any other in our region. The family of Congressman John Moore, including his wife Lottie and five children, will come alive again as guests tour the home furnished as it would have appeared during the years 1905-1910.

Lone Star Stomp

Because what's more fun than a 1930s Bonnie-and-Clyde-themed party? (And did you know that Bonnie and Clyde ate a meal at the Eagle Cafe in Rosenberg shortly before they were killed?)
"It's really a Lone Star Stomp like you've never seen before," said Director of Development Terri Norris. Live music will be provided by Shark Bait and for the first time in Stomp history, there will be casino tables -- plus live and silent auctions, whiskey and vodka stations and lots, lots more. 
100 percent of the proceeds benefit the Fort Bend Museum; last year, more than a third of our budget was raised at the Stomp -- so we hope you will make plans to join us and help bring history to the next generation! April 16. 7-11 p.m. George Ranch Historical Park.

...and so much more!

Okay...we really tried to narrow it down to the top six, but that leaves out way too much. There's still Bites and Brews, the lecture series (the first of which takes place on Feb. 5 and features Virginia Davis Scarborough!), summer history programs for the kiddos, the Candlelight Tours, new exhibits and SO. MUCH. MORE. Stay connected with us this year -- we'd love to have you get involved as a volunteer, a docent, a member or part of the Fort Bend Archeological Society. We're looking forward to experiencing 2016 with you!