Purpose

The Kaufman County Historical Commission’s (KCHC)  purpose is to identify, protect and interpret for future generations the pageantry of local Texas history and the legacy of forebears whose lives and accomplishments deserve remembrance. From 1995 through 2011, KCHC has received the coveted Distinguished Service Award presented by the state to county historical commissions who have done an outstanding job of historical preservation.

One of the most important challenges of historical commissions is to dispel the notion that progress and preservation are an oxymoron. In Kaufman County we have museums, local history publications, archeology fairs and living history festivals, historical tours and programs, historical sites markers, Recorded Texas Landmark markers; historical cemetery designations that not only educate and enhance the quality of life for local residents, but also contribute to the economic growth of the county.

Duties

As an arm of the county government and at the request of the commissioners court they may make recommendations concerning the acquisition of property, real or personal, that is of historical significance and review applications for historic site property tax exemptions. As Kaufman County continues to grow in population, many of the rural areas are turning into housing developments. Commissioners Court now requires that a developer request a letter from the Kaufman County Historical Commission stating whether there are any identifiable historical sites or landmarks within the boundaries of the subject land before they can receive a permit to build.