Brown County Commissioners on Monday, May 20, 2019 appointed a Certified Local Government Committee, consisting of five members, to work on behalf of preserving local historical sites.

Heading up the Committee is Dr. Bob Mangrum, Professor of History, Howard Payne University, Doctor of Philosophy, Master of Arts, American History.  He will be the first ever Brown County Historic Preservation Officer.  “That was necessary for him to form the Certified Local Government Committee which, together with Dr. Mangrum the chair, will become our certified local government,” said Bob Contreras, Brown County Grant Coordinator.   The committee members will be unpaid and meet six times per year.  “This is just a process and designation awarded by the Texas Historical Commission to partner with the National Parks Service and local government to preserve our local, historical sites,” Contreras said.

The other committee members are already involved in Brown County history.  Committee members include Becky Isbell, David Cole, Beverly Norris and Crystal Stanley.

“This is a good deal for the citizens of Brown County.  It makes us eligible for grants, matching grants up to 50 percent.  Also they (Texas Historical Commission) partner with us financially to help restore, repair or rehabilitate our historic places,” Contreras said.

The committee will also work with the local Chamber of Commerce to create walking or driving tours of local historic places to increase tourism.