Today@Sam Article
Spring Community Events Announced For Sam Houston Museum
Feb. 29, 2024
SHSU Media Contact: Mikah Boyd
By Megan Buro
The Sam Houston Memorial Museum and Republic of Texas Presidential Library is announcing its 2024 spring community events on the museum grounds—Sundown at Sam’s music series and General Sam Houston Day.
“Our events allow the museum team to focus on what we do best—connect with our community and interpret the life of Sam Houston, one of the most interesting and enigmatic figures in Texas and U.S. history,” said Derrick Birdsall, museum director. “Sundown at Sam’s, back by popular demand this year, allows us to reach new audiences who might not otherwise visit a history museum, as well as revisit with those patrons who participated last year.” 
Sundown at Sam’s is a free live music series featuring local artists that will take place on April 18, May 2 and May 16 on the quaint stage located on the museum grounds, next to the museum store. SHSU economics professor Darren Grant helped get the series started with Birdsall and serves as musical director.
“Sundown at Sam’s got a wonderful reception when it debuted last year,” Grant said. “This year, we will continue to showcase outstanding local talent in a variety of musical styles, everything from blues and bluegrass to country and gospel. We’re also introducing some new things—food vendors and an open community jam after the last concert on closing night. I’m really excited about it.”
Sundown at Sam’s artist line-up will include:
April 18 – John Krajicek (Americana-folk) & Fire Ants String Band (bluegrass)
May 2 – Praise on Purpose (gospel) & The Mighty Orq (blues)
May 16 – The Pickets (folk-country) & The Supper Party (bluegrass)
Sponsored by CAT Café and Tap Truck Outlaws, the music series will kick off each evening at 6:15 p.m. Visitors can bring their own chairs, blankets and snacks (no glass containers), however food will be available to purchase each night and adult beverages will be offered for purchase from Tap Truck Outlaws. In case of inclement weather, the live music is moved indoors for a more intimate listening room experience at the museum’s Katy & E. Don Walker Sr. Education Center.
General Sam Houston Day may sound familiar, as this one-day event is a revamped version of the museum’s previous Folk Festival. With a more enhanced emphasis on 19th century history, the community event is dedicated to honoring the life and times (1793-1863) of Sam Houston. Set for Sat. April 27, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the museum grounds, the festivities will include historical demonstrations, hands-on activities, period music and more.
“We have partnered with individuals and historic sites from across Texas to bring Texas history up close and make it an interactive experience for our visitors,” said Birdsall.
The museum, museum store and Walker Education Center will also be open during the event.
The Sam Houston Memorial Museum and Republic of Texas Presidential Library hosts a variety of events throughout the year that are open to the public. To learn more, visit samhoustonmemorialmuseum.com or follow the museum on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
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