The Frontier Times Museum will host a historical marker dedication ceremony on Thursday, Oct. 2, from 5 to 7 p.m.
The event will celebrate the installation of a new historical marker, replacing the original marker that has stood at the museum’s front entrance since 1968.
The project was led by the Bandera County Historical Commission with funding from museum board trustee Kirk Mc-Mullan and the McMullan family, who also supported the restoration of the museum’s iconic totem pole.
As board president, McMullan noted the original marker contained several inaccuracies. With support from the Historical Commission’s Marker Committee, a revised application was submitted and approved by the Texas Historical Commission.
The process was delayed for years by the COVID-19 pandemic and the closure of the foundry that produced the state’s markers.
While the state owns the markers, local entities must cover costs. Mc-Mullan said the project was so important that he personally funded the new marker.
“This updated marker not only corrects the historical record, but also honors the enduring legacy of those who helped establish and sustain the museum,” McMullan said.
The museum’s totem pole was also restored as part of the project. Originally carved by retired British Royal Naval Commander G. Keith Gordon, the pole was given to the museum in 1947 as part of a bequest from his widow, Louisa Gordon. Gordon created the piece after being inspired by the totems of Canada’s Northwest Coast. It was last restored in the 1980s by Fred Collins.
At the museum’s recent gala, the opportunity to sponsor the restoration sparked lively bidding. McMullan submitted the winning bid, and the work was completed by local paramedic and artist Logan Miles, who studied traditional Northwest Coast techniques to guide his restoration.
The Oct. 2 event will include remarks from community leaders and the formal unveiling of the new marker. Bandera County Historical Commission Chair Kimberly Miles said it was a pleasure to work with McMullan, past board president, and Rebecca Norton, the museum’s executive director, to ensure the landmark’s history was accurately preserved.
Following the dedication, guests will be invited into the museum for refreshments. The event is free and open to the public.
The Frontier Times Museum is at 510 13th St. For more information, call 830-796-3864.
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