BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Beaumont Heritage Society - ECPv6.17.3//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Beaumont Heritage Society X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://beaumontheritage.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Beaumont Heritage Society REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Chicago BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20250309T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20251102T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20260308T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20261101T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20270314T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20271107T070000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260501T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261205T170000 DTSTAMP:20260715T142538Z CREATED:20260312T202042Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260715T142538Z UID:1863-1777622400-1796490000@beaumontheritage.org SUMMARY:SETX 250! DESCRIPTION:As the nation prepares to mark the 250th anniversary of American independence in 2026\, the Beaumont Heritage Society is launching Southeast Texas 250\, a regional initiative to commemorate the United States Semiquincentennial across Southeast Texas. \nThe effort will bring together museums\, historical organizations\, schools\, civic groups\, and local governments throughout the region to celebrate the people\, places\, and stories that have shaped Southeast Texas and its role in the broader American story. \nThe national milestone commemorates the signing of the United States Declaration of Independence on July 4\, 1776. Across the country\, communities are organizing programs leading up to the anniversary through the nationwide effort coordinated by the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission. Southeast Texas 250 will serve as the regional framework for local participation in the celebration. \nLed by the Beaumont Heritage Society\, Southeast Texas 250 will encourage communities across the region to host events\, exhibitions\, oral history projects\, educational programs\, and heritage tourism initiatives that highlight local history while connecting it to the larger national narrative. \nThe initiative is expected to include collaborative programming with regional partners and special events leading up to and after the 250th anniversary of Independence Day in 2026. \n🏨 Making a weekend of it? Stay with our partner hotel! Hilton Garden Inn Beaumont 3755 I-10\, Beaumont\, TX 77705. Book online or call the hotel and reference client/company number 3553285 for a special rate. \nSee the SETX 250 Community Calendar and list of events below! \n_________________________________________________________ \nCommunity Barbecue and SETX  250 Kickoff | The Chambers House Museum | Saturday\, May 2nd\, 2026 | 12 – 4 p.m.\n  \n \nJoin us for a Community Barbecue at the Chambers House Museum on Saturday\, May 2\, 2026\, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. as we kick off Southeast Texas 250\, a regional celebration leading up to America’s 250th anniversary. \nBring your friends\, family\, and neighbors for an afternoon of good food\, community spirit\, and local history. This free event is a chance to gather together\, celebrate the stories that shaped Southeast Texas\, and launch a year of special programs and events across the region. \nThe Chambers House Museum\, operated by the Beaumont Heritage Society\, provides the perfect historic backdrop for this celebration. Come enjoy barbecue\, connect with your community\, and help us start the Southeast Texas 250 festivities in style. \n\nAMSET Film Crew Meeting | The Art Museum of SETX | Tuesday\, May 12th\, 2026 | 5:30 p.m.\n  \n \nJoin AMSET in celebrating America 250 by discussing one of the oldest art forms in America\, quilting. The two documentaries listed below provide insight into the history\, cultural significance\, and artistry of quilting with emphasis on how quilts tell diverse stories. Attendees will watch the documentaries on their own and come together for conversation.  This event is free to attend\, RSVP encouraged. Click the link below to get your free ticket.  \n  \nRSVP for Film Crew –> https://givebutter.com/america-250-amset-film-crew-4nrfvt \n– “Craft in America: Quilts” (Season 11\, Episode 1) on PBS (stream for free on PBS.org) \n– “The Quilters” on Netflix  (optional\, if participant does not have access to Netflix) \n  \nAmerica 250 Open House & SETX Speaks: Oral History Drive | The W.H. Stark House | Saturday\, May 16th\, 2026 | 10 – 2 p.m.\n\n\nCelebrate America’s 250th Birthday at The W.H. Stark House! We are kicking off a summer of celebration with the America 250 Open House on Saturday\, May 16\, from 10 am-2 pm. \nThe America 250 Open House will feature the Southeast Texas Speaks: Oral History Drive\, which invites our community to share and preserve their memories of Southeast Texas! Sign up for a timeslot today at whstarkhouse.org and help us see SETX history through your eyes. \nVisitors will also make their mark on a Community Painting\, add a wish to the Wish Wall\, and visit community partners on the grounds. The Stark House will be open for visitors to explore the people of The W.H. Stark House and its unique place in Southeast Texas history. Go to https://whstarkhouse.org/oralhistory/ to register. Visit https://whstarkhouse.org/america-250-open-house/ for more information. \n  \n\nAmerica 250: Three Presidents – Lincoln\, Grant\, and Garfield | Stark Museum of Art |May 16th – December 3rd\, 2026 \n \nTo celebrate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States\, the Stark Museum of Art presents America 250: Three Presidents—Lincoln\, Grant\, and Garfield. This special focus exhibition features three watercolor paintings by Taos artist Oscar E. Berninghaus. Each painting shows a moment from the early life of Abraham Lincoln\, Ulysses S. Grant\, or James Garfield. These scenes remind us that these well-known leaders began as ordinary boys who worked hard and hoped for a better future. (Museum closed May 17th\, 18th & 19th) \n  \nVietnam Veterans of America Collection Exhibit Opening Event | The Tyrrell Historical Library| Thursday\, June 11th\, 2026 | 4:30 – 6 p.m.\n \nJoin the Tyrrell Historical Library for a special exhibit opening honoring Vietnam Veterans. \nThe Vietnam Veterans Exhibit will feature artifacts\, photographs\, and memorabilia highlighting the history and contributions of the local chapter of the Vietnam Veterans of America. The event will include a presentation by Sandra Womack\, who will discuss the chapter’s history and ongoing impact on the Beaumont community. \n  \nThe W.H. Stark House Book Club | The W.H. Stark House & John Jay French Museum | Thursday\, June 11th & June 18th\, 2026 | 6 p.m.\n \nCelebrate America’s 250th birthday with The W.H. Stark House Classics Book Club in a discussion of A Tree Grows in Brooklyn. A Tree Grows in Brooklyn is a classic 1943 coming-of-age novel by Betty Smith\, following the life of Francie Nolan\, a resilient girl growing up in the immigrant communities of Brooklyn\, New York\, in the early 1900s. The story chronicles her childhood and adolescence\, focusing on her family’s struggles with poverty\, her father’s alcoholism\, her mother’s strength\, and Francie’s own dreams of education and becoming a writer\, symbolized by the tenacious tree growing in their yard. \nInspired by Miriam Stark’s own book club\, this event will explore America’s 250th birthday through a discussion of the novel’s themes\, American history\, and the “American Dream.” \nThis Book Club will be offered twice! The June 11 session will be hosted at The W.H. Stark House in Orange\, and the June 18 session will be hosted at the John Jay French Museum in Beaumont. The June 11 session will also include a brief tour of The W.H. Stark House. Guests are encouraged to register for the date of their choosing. \nAdvanced registration is encouraged and can be made online at https://whstarkhouse.org/classics-book-club/. \n  \nAMSET Book Club Meeting | The Art Museum of SETX | Tuesday\, June 16th\, 2026 | 5:30 p.m.\n  \n \n\nJoin AMSET in celebrating America 250 by reading Theo the Golden by Allen Levi. This new bestselling novel explores how art creates community and sparks acts of kindness in a small southern town. We will discuss the story\, how art plays a part in everyday life\, and how we can create community and connection in our own lives. Attendees will read the book on their own and come together for conversation. Free to attend\, RSVP encouraged. Click the link below to get your free ticket.  \n  \nRSVP for Book Club –> https://givebutter.com/america-250-amset-book-club-kwrbhq \n\n  \nAmerica 250: Community & Culture | The John Jay French Museum | Saturday\, June 20th\, 2026 | 10 – 2 p.m.\n  \n \nJoin us for Community and Culture\, a vibrant multicultural fair celebrating the people\, traditions\, and stories that make Southeast Texas unique. As part of the Southeast Texas 250 commemoration\, this event will bring together music\, food\, art\, and cultural traditions from across our diverse communities. \nEnjoy performances\, local vendors\, cultural demonstrations\, and opportunities to connect with neighbors while honoring the many cultures that shape our region’s history and future. \nCelebrate the rich heritage of Southeast Texas and be part of this special moment as we mark 250 years of the American story—together. \n  \nAmerica 250: Lecture: Log Cabin to White House | Stark Museum of Art | Thursday\, June 25th\, 2026 | 6 p.m.\n \nThis slide talk will highlight three paintings of U.S. presidents. Taos artist Oscar E. Berninghaus created scenes from the early lives of Abraham Lincoln\, Ulysses S. Grant\, and James Garfield. Curator Sarah Boehme will explain why Berninghaus chose these presidents and what inspired him to paint their stories. The talk will also look at the history and events that shaped these three leaders as they served their country. \nOffered in conjunction with the special focus exhibition America 250: Three Presidents – Lincoln\, Grant\, and Garfield on view through December 23\, 2026\, at the Stark Museum of Art \nAmerica 250: Star-Spangled Spectacular | Jefferson Theater | Saturday\, June 27th\, 2026 | 6 p.m.\nThe City of Beaumont invites the community to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with a patriotic evening of music\, film\, and history at the Jefferson Theatre. \nGuests will enjoy a memorable lineup of performances and features\, including: \n\nA stirring rendition of the National Anthem performed by barbershop quartet\, The College Try\nA patriotic Armed Forces Medley honoring U.S. military branches\nInteractive sing-a-longs accompanied by the historic Robert Morton organ\, with vocals led by Hunter Courts\nA special silent film presentation of The General\, featuring live organ accompaniment by Tom Helms on the restored Robert Morton organ\nThis unique celebration highlights the rich cultural heritage of the Jefferson Theatre while honoring the spirit of America’s 250th anniversary.\n\nDoors open at 6pm\, and the program begins at 7pm. To purchase tickets\, visit: Star Spangled Spectacular. \n  \n\nThe Spirit of Port Arthur | Museum of the Gulf Coast | Wednesday\, July 1st\, 2026 | 6:30 p.m.\n \nThe Spirit of Port Arthur is a temporary exhibition developed in conjunction with America 250\, the national commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Rather than focusing on the events of 1776\, the exhibition interprets the broader ideals of American independence—resilience\, opportunity\, freedom of expression\, and civic identity—through the history and lived experience of Port Arthur\, Texas. Presented over a focused 3-month run\, the exhibition highlights how a single Gulf Coast community reflects the larger American story through industry\, culture\, adversity\, and perseverance. The exhibition positions Port Arthur not as a footnote to national history\, but as an active contributor to it. Included in regular Museum admission. \n  \n“America 250: A Beaumont History” by Judith Walker Linsley | McFaddin-Ward House Museum | Thursday\, November 12th\, 2026 | 6:30 p.m.\n \n  \nJoin the McFaddin-Ward House Museum for “America 250: A Beaumont History\,” a free public lecture presented by Judith Walker Linsley on Thursday\, November 12\, at 6:30 p.m. in the Museum’s Visitor Center Lecture Hall (1906 Calder Avenue\, Beaumont). In commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary\, Linsley\, a sixth-generation Southeast Texan and local historian\, will explore the fascinating story of Beaumont\, beginning with the indigenous Ishak people and traveling through the Texas Revolution\, 1901 Spindletop oil boom\, and technological and industrial expansions leading up to the modern day. For nearly four decades\, Linsley has been a member of the McFaddin-Ward House Museum staff\, serving in a range of roles in interpretation\, education\, curation\, and research\, including her current role as research assistant. She has also conducted more than 100 oral history interviews for the Museum. McFaddin-Ward House Museum lectures are admission-free and open to the public\, but space is limited. Doors open at 6 p.m. For more information\, call 409-832-2134. \n  \nChristmas Around the World | Port Arthur Public Library | Saturday\, December 5\, 2026 | 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.\n \nThe Port Arthur Public Library invites cultural groups to revive a Port Arthur tradition. Christmas Around the World will feature decorated trees (live Christmas trees will be provided)\, crafts\, Nativity scenes\, recipes and music from groups invited to share their traditions. This is your group’s invitation to set up a display in December\, with an opening reception set for 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday\, December 5. This port town\, now deemed the official Cajun Capital of Texas\, is home to many cultures. Our area has welcomed Dutch\, Creole\, Italian\, Vietnamese\, Mexican\, African-American\, Palestinian\, Pakistani and many other groups who have thrived in Southeast Texas. Their stories of history\, foods\, music and art deserve to be shared. Port Arthur’s Quasquicentennial in 2023 brought the popular Cultural Heritage Showcase to Port Arthur. Let’s celebrate again. The Port Arthur Public Library\, with support from the Port Arthur Convention & Visitors Bureau\, is encouraging this community unity for another gathering. This is America’s 250th birthday year and a great time to share traditions. \nTo display your heritage at Christmas Around the World\, contact Steven Williams\, Library Director\, at 409-985-8838 or email swilliams@paplibrary.org. Learn about this year’s free library programs at https://www.facebook.com/PALibrary/. \n  \n  \n  \n \n\n  \n  \n  URL:https://beaumontheritage.org/event/setx-250/ LOCATION:TX ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://beaumontheritage.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SETX-250-OF-LOGO.png ORGANIZER;CN="Beaumont Heritage Society":MAILTO:info@beaumontheritage.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260730T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260730T140000 DTSTAMP:20260713T194114Z CREATED:20260713T193642Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260713T194114Z UID:2104-1785405600-1785420000@beaumontheritage.org SUMMARY:Exhibit Opening: Learning Through Play DESCRIPTION:The Beaumont Heritage Society is proud to announce the debut of its newest exhibit\, “Learning Through Play: Educational Toys in the Chambers Family Collection\,” opening to the public on July 30th\, 2026\, at the Chambers House Museum. This exhibit explores how a middle-class household created an environment where learning extended beyond the classroom and helped shaped the academic achievements of two college-educated women in southeast Texas in the early 20th century. \nDrawing from the Chambers family’s own collection of toys\, photographs\, and personal items\, the exhibit offers a unique lens into how play was beginning to be used as tools to supplement educational activities outside of the classroom in the early 20th century. \nAt its center is a recreated mock “classroom” that allows guests to rediscover the wonder of learning through alphabet blocks\, storybooks\, and\, of course\, toys. “Learning Through Playing” examines how childhood experiences\, family encouragement\, and playful discovery shaped a lifelong pursuit of knowledge. \nThe exhibit will open at the Chambers House Museum on Thursday\, July 30th\, during regular operating hours. A free opening reception will take place at the museum (located at 2240 Calder Ave\, Beaumont\, TX 77701) on Friday\, July 31\, 2026\, from 10am to 2pm. Ms. Morgan and Collections Manager Jayden Franke will be available to discuss the exhibit and answer questions from guests. Light refreshments will be served. The reception is open to the public\, and no registration is required. URL:https://beaumontheritage.org/event/exhibit-opening-learning-through-play/ LOCATION:Chambers House Museum\, 2240 Calder Avenue\, Beaumont\, TX\, 77701\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Beaumont Heritage Society":MAILTO:info@beaumontheritage.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260820T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260820T110000 DTSTAMP:20260730T140825Z CREATED:20260730T140825Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260730T140825Z UID:2132-1787220000-1787223600@beaumontheritage.org SUMMARY:Homeschool Days - Historical Research DESCRIPTION:Class is back in session!\n\nJoin the Beaumont Heritage Society at the 1845 John Jay French Museum for Homeschool Days\, a unique way to learn about history in one of Beaumont’s most historic locations!\n\nAUGUST HOMESCHOOL DAYS: “Historical Research”\n\nIn our August Homeschool Days program\,  students will learn how to begin conducting historical research\, and choose from several unidentified artifacts in the Beaumont Heritage Society’s collection. Following the lesson\, students will research their chosen objects\, and compile their research into an artifact label.  This lesson will encourage students to think critically\, read carefully\, and work together to uncover history.\n\n“Homeschool Days – Historical Research” will take place on Thursday\, August 20\, 2026\, from 10:00 am – 11:00 am on the grounds of the John Jay French Museum. The session costs $5.00 per student and includes a history lesson and related activity. To register\, please complete your form and payment below. This program is recommended for students ages 12+\, but all ages (even adults) are welcome!\n\nPlease complete the registration form and payment below. Hit “Submit” on the bottom of the form before exiting the page:\n\n \n \n Homeschool Days\n \n \n Please Choose Session\n \n \n Session I (10am-11am)\n Number of Students Student Name and AgeParent/Guardian Name(Required)\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n Home/Mobil Phone(Required)Work PhoneEmail(Required)\n \n Address \n \n \n \n Street Address\n \n \n Address Line 2\n \n \n City\n \n \n State / Province / Region\n \n \n ZIP / Postal Code\n \n AfghanistanAlbaniaAlgeriaAmerican SamoaAndorraAngolaAnguillaAntarcticaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaArubaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelgiumBelizeBeninBermudaBhutanBoliviaBonaire\, Sint Eustatius and SabaBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswanaBouvet IslandBrazilBritish Indian Ocean TerritoryBrunei DarussalamBulgariaBurkina FasoBurundiCabo VerdeCambodiaCameroonCanadaCayman IslandsCentral African RepublicChadChileChinaChristmas IslandCocos IslandsColombiaComorosCongoCongo\, Democratic Republic of theCook IslandsCosta RicaCroatiaCubaCuraçaoCyprusCzechiaCôte d'IvoireDenmarkDjiboutiDominicaDominican RepublicEcuadorEgyptEl SalvadorEquatorial GuineaEritreaEstoniaEswatiniEthiopiaFalkland IslandsFaroe IslandsFijiFinlandFranceFrench GuianaFrench PolynesiaFrench Southern TerritoriesGabonGambiaGeorgiaGermanyGhanaGibraltarGreeceGreenlandGrenadaGuadeloupeGuamGuatemalaGuernseyGuineaGuinea-BissauGuyanaHaitiHeard Island and McDonald IslandsHoly SeeHondurasHong KongHungaryIcelandIndiaIndonesiaIranIraqIrelandIsle of ManIsraelItalyJamaicaJapanJerseyJordanKazakhstanKenyaKiribatiKorea\, Democratic People's Republic ofKorea\, Republic ofKuwaitKyrgyzstanLao People's Democratic RepublicLatviaLebanonLesothoLiberiaLibyaLiechtensteinLithuaniaLuxembourgMacaoMadagascarMalawiMalaysiaMaldivesMaliMaltaMarshall IslandsMartiniqueMauritaniaMauritiusMayotteMexicoMicronesiaMoldovaMonacoMongoliaMontenegroMontserratMoroccoMozambiqueMyanmarNamibiaNauruNepalNetherlandsNew CaledoniaNew ZealandNicaraguaNigerNigeriaNiueNorfolk IslandNorth MacedoniaNorthern Mariana IslandsNorwayOmanPakistanPalauPalestine\, State ofPanamaPapua New GuineaParaguayPeruPhilippinesPitcairnPolandPortugalPuerto RicoQatarRomaniaRussian FederationRwandaRéunionSaint BarthélemySaint Helena\, Ascension and Tristan da CunhaSaint Kitts and NevisSaint LuciaSaint MartinSaint Pierre and MiquelonSaint Vincent and the GrenadinesSamoaSan MarinoSao Tome and PrincipeSaudi ArabiaSenegalSerbiaSeychellesSierra LeoneSingaporeSint MaartenSlovakiaSloveniaSolomon IslandsSomaliaSouth AfricaSouth Georgia and the South Sandwich IslandsSouth SudanSpainSri LankaSudanSurinameSvalbard and Jan MayenSwedenSwitzerlandSyria Arab RepublicTaiwanTajikistanTanzania\, the United Republic ofThailandTimor-LesteTogoTokelauTongaTrinidad and TobagoTunisiaTurkmenistanTurks and Caicos IslandsTuvaluTürkiyeUS Minor Outlying IslandsUgandaUkraineUnited Arab EmiratesUnited KingdomUnited StatesUruguayUzbekistanVanuatuVenezuelaViet NamVirgin Islands\, BritishVirgin Islands\, U.S.Wallis and FutunaWestern SaharaYemenZambiaZimbabweÅland Islands\n Country\n \n \n Emergency Contact #1(Required)\n \n \n \n Name\n \n \n \n \n Number\n \n \n Emergency Contact #2(Required)\n \n \n \n Name\n \n \n \n \n Number\n \n \n Allergies or other medical conditions we need to know about? (Including medications) If none\, type NONE.(Required)In case of emergency\, and if the Beaumont Heritage Society is unable to contact any of the listed contacts\, do we have permission to have your child taken to the emergency room?(Required)\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n No\n Emergency Permission: In case of emergency\, I authorize the Beaumont Heritage Society staff to obtain emergency medical care for my student(s) as needed.(Required)\n \n \n I Accept\n \n \n \n I Decline\n To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law\, I will hold harmless and indemnify the Beaumont Heritage Society\, its agents and employees\, against any and all claims and actions arising out of my child's/children's participation in the Homeschool Days program\, including\, without limitation\, expenses\, judgments\, fines\, settlements and other amounts actually and reasonably incurred in connection with any liability\, suit\, action\, loss\, or damage arising or resulting from my child's participation in the Homeschool Days program..(Required)\n \n \n I Accept\n \n \n \n I Decline\n Photography Permission: I authorize the Beaumont Heritage Society staff and agents permission to photograph and video my student(s) while attending Homeschool Days for the explicit purpose of social media use\, and creation of print advertising materials.(Required)\n \n \n I Accept\n \n \n \n I Decline\n PhoneThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n  \n\nWant to be notified of the next Homeschool Days event? Email education@beaumontheritage.org to join our mailing list! Questions about the program? Call our Museum Educator at 409-832-4010! URL:https://beaumontheritage.org/event/homeschool-days-historical-research/ LOCATION:John Jay French House\, 3025 French Road\, Beaumont\, TX\, 77706\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Beaumont Heritage Society":MAILTO:info@beaumontheritage.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260917T173000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260917T193000 DTSTAMP:20260821T152750Z CREATED:20260821T152750Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260821T152750Z UID:2156-1789666200-1789673400@beaumontheritage.org SUMMARY:Heritage Happy Hour - St. Mark's DESCRIPTION:The Beaumont Heritage Society invites the community to Heritage Happy Hour\, hosted at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church on Thursday\, September 17\, 2026. Join us for the evening to learn more local history\, create connections\, shop at The Treasure House\, and finally get your hands on St. Mark’s secret chili spices! This special evening will offer guests the opportunity to enjoy complimentary beer and wine by Giglio Distributing\, connect with fellow history enthusiasts\, and explore one of Beaumont’s treasured historic landmarks. \nHeritage Happy Hour is an ongoing series designed to showcase significant historic places throughout the community while supporting preservation efforts. St. Mark’s offers the community a chance to explore their history and impact on Beaumont and the larger Southeast Texas area. The church will be selling their famous frozen chili and giving away chili spice packets to the first 50 guests! The Treasure House will be open from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. for guests to browse and shop for the perfect thrift experience. \nGuests are welcome to come and go between 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.\, enjoy complimentary drinks\, browse informational panels on the church’s history\, chat with Father James\, the reverend of the church\, who will be available to answer questions\, and explore different areas of the church including the nave (sanctuary)\, parish hall\, and weather permitting\, the Oak Garden. Proceeds from the event help support the Beaumont Heritage Society’s mission to preserve\, promote\, and celebrate the region’s historic resources. You can also stop by to purchase your copy of our exclusive Heritage Happy Hour watercolor prints! \nAbout St. Mark’s: St. Mark’s Episcopal Church\, originally named the Mission of the Good Shepherd\, held their first Holy Communion service in 1877. In 1880\, the name was changed to St. Mark’s and services were held in Temperance Hall located on Pearl St. The following year\, St. Mark’s purchased property on the corner of Orleans and Forsyth where a small wooden structure was built in 1899. The church was officially named a parish in 1898 and continued to grow. In 1913\, they purchased the property where the church is today\, 680 Calder Ave. Slowly\, the congregation saw their parish house completed in 1915 and church completed in 1942. As a fundraiser for the parish\, the St. Mark’s annual Chili Supper and Bazaar was established in 1941 and continues to this day. The construction was a great effort\, but the parish’s growth did not stop there. The Sunday School building was completed in 1954\, followed by the Gilbert Building and columbarium in 1998. The parish opened The Treasure House and chartered All Saints Episcopal School in 1956. \nEvent Details: \n\nSt. Mark’s Episcopal Church – 680 Calder Ave\, Beaumont\, TX 77701\nSeptember 17\, 2026\, 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.\nFREE for BHS Members; $10 for 21 and up\, tickets sold at the door\nThe Treasure House will be open 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. (805 North St.)\, please check in at the church first\nSt. Mark’s famous frozen chili for sale\nFREE chili spice packets to the first 50 guests\nAreas to view: the nave (sanctuary)\, the parish hall\, and weather permitting\, the Oak Garden\n\nHeritage Happy Hour is an ongoing outreach program typically held every other month\, with each event highlighting a historical landmark\, time\, exhibit\, or organization\, featuring complimentary craft beer provided by Giglio Distributing Co. (wine and non-alcoholic beverages also available). We believe that by promoting and sharing our local history and its historical significance in a fun and social way\, we can also share and promote the efforts to preserve Beaumont’s historical landscape. Join the Beaumont Heritage Society today at beaumontheritage.org/membership and be a part of making a difference! \nWe are grateful to our Heritage Happy Hour sponsor\, The Matthew Fischer Real Estate Team\, for sponsoring this year’s events! URL:https://beaumontheritage.org/event/heritage-happy-hour-st-marks/ LOCATION:St. Mark’s Episcopal Church\, 680 Calder Ave\, Beaumont\, TX\, 77701\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Beaumont Heritage Society":MAILTO:info@beaumontheritage.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260918T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261031T170000 DTSTAMP:20260814T162833Z CREATED:20260729T185115Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260814T162833Z UID:2119-1789750800-1793466000@beaumontheritage.org SUMMARY:Crosswalks: Downtown Walking Tour DESCRIPTION:The first step to revitalizing a downtown is to repopulate its sidewalks. This is the mission behind “Crosswalks\,” our brand new downtown walking tour that invites locals and tourists alike to join the conversation about Beaumont’s past\, present\, and future. \nThis tour will highlight booms\, busts\, and revitalization throughout the history of downtown Beaumont\, from the Spindletop boom days to Ben Rogers’ ill-fated Hilton Hotel. The tour will also showcase emerging business development across downtown and position Beaumont as Texas’ next great preservation success. \nAlong the way\, guests will discover the history of downtown landmarks like the Kyle Building\, the Petroleum Building\, Antioch Baptist Church\, and The Copa\, as well as buildings long forgotten. \nUltimately\, this tour invites our community and neighbors to ask each other\, “How was modern-day Beaumont built? And how should we build the Beaumont of the future?” \nThis tour is generously sponsored by Iron Gate Studios. \nTraveling to Beaumont? Stay in our host hotel!\nHilton Garden Inn Beaumont\, located at 3755 I-10\, Beaumont\, TX 77705. Book online using and enter the code 3553285 for a special rate\, or call the hotel and reference Beaumont Heritage Society or our code 3553285! URL:https://beaumontheritage.org/event/crosswalks-downtown-walking-tour/ LOCATION:TX ORGANIZER;CN="Beaumont Heritage Society":MAILTO:info@beaumontheritage.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261009T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261010T233000 DTSTAMP:20260814T192620Z CREATED:20260814T184710Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260814T192620Z UID:2178-1791572400-1791675000@beaumontheritage.org SUMMARY:History After Dark: Ghost Hunt at the John Jay French Museum DESCRIPTION:History After Dark: Ghost Hunt at the John Jay French Museum \nDo you believe in ghosts? Join the Beaumont Heritage Society and our partners at Ghost Texas for History After Dark\, an after-hours paranormal investigation experience at one of Beaumont’s most storied historic properties — the John Jay French Museum. \nGhost Texas\, a professional paranormal investigation group based in Houston\, Texas\, will lead participants through the museum after dark\, exploring its history and the mysteries that may still linger within its walls. Whether you’re a seasoned ghost hunter or a curious first-timer\, this is your chance to investigate the unknown for yourself. \nYour ticket purchase directly supports the care and maintenance of the John Jay French Museum\, helping preserve this irreplaceable piece of Beaumont’s history for generations to come. \nEvent Details \n📅 October 9–10\, 2026\n📍 John Jay French Museum\, Beaumont\, TX\n🎟️ $60 per person | Beaumont Heritage Society members receive a discount — check your email for your exclusive code! \nSession Times \nFriday\, October 9th: \nSession 1: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM\nSession 2: 9:30 PM – 11:30 PM \nSaturday\, October 10th: \nSession 1: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM\nSession 2: 9:30 PM – 11:30 PM \n  \nWhat to Know Before You Go \n\nParticipants must be 16 years of age or older\nAll participants must sign a liability waiver upon arrival\nPlease arrive 15 minutes before your selected session time\nDress comfortably — you’ll be on your feet and moving through the museum\nGhost Texas will have professional equipment on-site; guests are welcome to bring their own\nPersonal photography and video are welcome — no flash photography inside the museum\, please\nGuests may not live stream the event; Ghost Texas and the Beaumont Heritage Society reserve the right to ask guests not to film or photograph certain areas or moments\n\nTickets are limited to 20 participants per session — don’t wait to grab yours! \n  \nTraveling to Beaumont? Stay in our host hotel! \nHilton Garden Inn Beaumont\, located at 3755 I-10\, Beaumont\, TX 77705. Book online using and enter the code 3553285 for a special rate\, or call the hotel and reference Beaumont Heritage Society or our code 3553285! \n  \nGET YOUR TICKETS BELOW! URL:https://beaumontheritage.org/event/history-after-dark-ghost-hunt-at-the-john-jay-french-museum/ LOCATION:John Jay French House\, 3025 French Road\, Beaumont\, TX\, 77706\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Beaumont Heritage Society":MAILTO:info@beaumontheritage.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261112T173000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261112T193000 DTSTAMP:20260818T164749Z CREATED:20260818T163551Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T164749Z UID:2204-1794504600-1794511800@beaumontheritage.org SUMMARY:Majhong at the Museum DESCRIPTION:🀄 Play a hand. Support history. \nJoin us for Mahjong at the Museum\, a fun afternoon of tiles\, friends\, and fellowship at the historic 1845 John Jay French Museum! \nYour ticket does more than get you a seat at the table—it helps preserve and sustain the continued operation of one of Beaumont’s most treasured historic sites. Every ticket helps us care for the museum\, share its stories\, and keep the 1845 John Jay French Museum open and engaging for generations to come. \nBring your mahjong crew\, invite a friend\, and make an evening of it! We’ll provide: \n🀄Mahjong sets \n🍷Complimentary wine and beverages \n🎁Raffle prizes \n🎟️ Get your tickets today and help us preserve Beaumont’s history—one tile at a time! \nCome play for a purpose! \nThis event is hosted by the Beaumont Heritage Society’s Fundraising Committee. URL:https://beaumontheritage.org/event/majhong-at-the-museum/ LOCATION:John Jay French House\, 3025 French Road\, Beaumont\, TX\, 77706\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://beaumontheritage.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Mahjong-at-the-Museum-1-scaled.png ORGANIZER;CN="Beaumont Heritage Society":MAILTO:info@beaumontheritage.org END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR