Past Matters Summer 2023; posted on 06/19/2023
A Note from the Executive Director
“These trees which he plants, and under whose shade he shall never sit, he loves them for themselves, and for the sake of his children and his children’s children, who are to sit beneath the shadow of their spreading boughs.” French theologian Hyacinthe Loyson, 1866
In the last few days, you may have received a letter in the mail from THC Commissioner Jim Bruseth, on behalf of the Friends of the Texas Historical Commission. In this letter, Jim shares his story of how a childhood experience led him to a half-century-long career in archeology—uncovering, exploring, and preserving the past for posterity. This is Jim’s legacy, his work preserving Texas history for future generations. It was this connection that led Jim and his wife Toni to their decision to leave yet another legacy, with a future gift (through their will). This legacy gift will support the work and career growth of future archeologists in Texas, something Jim and Toni are passionate about.
The work that we, the Friends of the Texas Historical Commission, do—telling the real stories of the real places and people of Texas—is about preserving the history of the state. It is about preserving the varied and complex stories of all Texans, from the generational to the new, that makes Texas the great state that it is. We invite you to join us in this endeavor by considering a legacy gift to the Friends.
We understand that through your philanthropy you want to make sure that your cherished values live on, and that the cause you are passionate about—preserving Texas history and heritage—is supported in perpetuity. A legacy (future) gift to the Friends will allow you to do just that, ensuring that the real stories of real places and people are preserved for all Texans and future generations.
Your legacy gift could include a gift of securities, real estate, or other properties; a future gift to the Friends of the THC in your will; a beneficiary designation for the Friends in your retirement plan or your life insurance; a gift that pays you income for life while also providing tax deductions (a charitable remainder trust); and more. You can also make any of these gifts in honor or memory of a loved one, or use them to establish an endowment honoring someone important. The possibilities are many, and relatively easy to implement.
Please call us—we would love an opportunity to discuss your legacy-giving goals. As Jim mentions in his letter, even a modest gift will go a long way in helping preserve Texas’ incredible history. Your participation in the Friends’ Legacy Giving Circle will be a truly remarkable gift—it will be the tree you plant today that will provide shade for future generations.
On behalf of the Board of Trustees and the staff of the Friends of the Texas Historical Commission—warm regards!
Anjali Zutshi, Executive Director