This weekend, the University of Houston-Downtown (UHD) is the host site for the San Jacinto Symposium, the state’s preeminent conference on the Texas Revolutionary era.

Historians from across nation will converge on campus for discussions and presentations addressing the topic “Women and the Texas Revolution.” Symposium events will be conducted in UHD’s Wilhelmina Cullen Robertson Auditorium from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., April 6.

The event is presented by the Texas State Historical Association with UHD’s award-winning Garna Christian Chapter of the Walter Prescott Webb Historical Society (the second oldest chapter in the state) serving as official host.

“We are honored to have our Webb Historical Society chapter host the San Jacinto Symposium,” said Dr. Gene Preuss, associate professor of history and Webb Society adviser. “This event attracts many prominent Texas historians to discuss the Texas Revolutionary period, and will provide our students a fantastic opportunity to attend a professional conference, interact and network with these scholars. They also will have the experience to hear from noted historians and understand how they interpret the past.”

Speakers at the symposium include: Dr. James E. Crisp, professor of history at North Carolina State University; Dr. Richard Bruce Winders, curator and historian at the Alamo; Dr. Carolina Castillo Crimm, owner of Historic Tours of Texas; Dr. Paula Marks, professor emerita of American Studies at St. Edward’s University; and Dr. Mary L. Scheer, professor of history at Lamar University. Dr. Eric Carl Link, UHD senior vice president for Academic & Student Affairs and Provost, will deliver opening remarks.

The symposium has promoted public awareness and scholarship about the Texas Revolutionary era for 18 years. It is co-sponsored by the San Jacinto Battleground Conservancy, and is administered by the Texas State Historical Association. The sessions will be broadcast live on Houston Media Source.

According the Preuss, the symposium not only presents students with an opportunity to learn from esteemed scholars. These noted historians can learn about UHD and the students who comprise the Webb Society.

“Many people who are unfamiliar with UHD can learn about its great educational opportunities and the quality students we attract,” Preuss said. “On behalf of our Texas history students, Honors students and Webb Historical Society, we are proud to be part of the San Jacinto Symposium.”