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Visit us at the Houston History Research Center where our goal is to link visitors from around the world to the storied history of this city. Our collections provide a wealth of knowledge about the history of Houston and the surrounding areas. Our staff is always ready to help researchers either in person or through email.
The mission of the Houston History Research Center (HHRC) is to locate, preserve, and make available to researchers the documentary evidence of Houston’s history. Discover original records offering a rich account of the Hispanic experience in Houston. This special collection includes over 100 collections of papers and photographs representing the contributions of Hispanics in every industry and their experience in the Bayou City. These archival records, coupled with first-hand accounts captured via oral history offer a rich account of the Hispanic experience in Houston.
The mission of the Houston History Research Center (HHRC) is to locate, preserve, and make available to researchers the documentary evidence of Houston’s history. Discover original records offering a rich account of the Hispanic experience in Houston. This special collection includes over 100 collections of papers and photographs representing the contributions of Hispanics in every industry and their experience in the Bayou City. These archival records, coupled with first-hand accounts captured via oral history offer a rich account of the Hispanic experience in Houston.
Houston History Research Center at the Julia Ideson Building
Plan Your Special Occasion With Us
In the heart of Houston, the historic Julia Ideson Building, with its distinctive, elegant Spanish Renaissance-style architecture, stands out among the more contemporary buildings surrounding it. This 1926 treasure, which served as Houston’s library from 1926-1976, is a unique venue for your event. The exceptional spaces and artwork in the Julia Ideson Building make it the perfect setting for weddings, galas, formal dinners, photo sessions, business meetings, and corporate events.
Save the Date
Explore the stunning Julia Ideson Building in downtown Houston, learning about its history, architecture, and renovations. Tours are available for groups of 10 to 40 people. Please arrive on time; late arrivals over 30 minutes may result in a self-guided tour.
Schedule Tour
Stay informed with the latest updates and developments regarding the Hispanic community! Visit our blog for a curated selection of recent articles, stories, press releases, and more. Stay Linked to HPL.
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Be the first to hear about our latest updates, exclusive offers, and insider tips. Join our community of curious readers and get exclusive access to valuable resources, upcoming events, and fascinating historical discoveries!
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Hispanic Collections
Materials range in date from 1703 to the present, with the bulk of the material covering the 1920s through the 1980s. Within these collections are a significant number of materials about early Houston mutualistas (mutual aid societies), big band, Tejano, and Chicano music, the Mexican American experience during World War II, and the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC).
VIVA MAGAZINE
Created and published by Blanca Hernandez, Viva! contained articles focused on education, community affairs, entertainment, electoral politics, immigration, sports, and businesses.
JOHN J. HERRERA PHOTOGRAPHS
Born on April 12, 1910 in Cravens, Louisiana, where his father was sheriff. He graduated from Sam Houston High School in Houston, and went on to South Texas Law School in 1940.
JOHN J. HERRERA PAPERS
The materials in this collection document John J. Herrera's civic, legal, and political activities through correspondence, speeches, and other records.
LUNA FAMILY PAPERS
Includes immigration records, employment records, newspaper clippings, and 37 photographs taken during World War II. Items not digitized include a military garrison cap and ring.
LULAC NEWS COLLECTION
The national publication of League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), which includes articles covering contemporary issues facing the Hispanic community.
HISPANIC ARCHIVES
This digital collection includes over 100 collections of papers and photographs representing the contributions of Hispanics in every industry and their experience in the Bayou City.
ORAL HISTORIES
Created in 1974, these powerful narratives are made up of community members, artists, musicians, civil rights activists, politicians, and civic leaders who helped define the growth and history of the city.
PORTAL TO TEXAS
Unlock historical documents, images, and publications from across Texas. The Portal to Texas History offers access to a vast collection of resources that tell the rich and diverse story of the state.
UNIQUE PROJECTS
From Voter Drives to Viva Kennedy: The Mexican American Vote in Houston, 1930s - 1960s delves into the pivotal role of Mexican Americans in shaping Houston’s political landscape.
Getting Started
Discover a curated collection of resources on key databases, books, scholarly articles, and more on topics related to Hispanic culture, history, or language, these guides help you find reliable and relevant information with ease.
Research Guide
Hispanic Journals & Periodicals
Unlock a comprehensive collection of academic journals and periodicals dedicated to Hispanic studies. Our A-Z databases offer access to a wide range of scholarly articles, research papers, and publications that cover Hispanic culture, history, language, and more.
Explore Journals & Periodicals
History Research Center Events
AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY
Research Center at the Gregory School
A leading cultural institution in Texas, devoted to the research, preservation, and exhibition of materials on the Black experience in Houston, the neighboring regions, and the African Diaspora.
FAMILY HISTORY
Research Center at the Clayton Library Campus
Established in 1968 in the former home of Houston businessman and statesman William Lockhart Clayton, the Clayton Library now houses one of the nation’s top genealogical research collections.
HOUSTON HISTORY
Research Center at the Julia Ideson Building
Archives and houses materials for the study of Houston’s history. Books, maps, building plans, journals, photographs, vertical files, and oral histories all help to shed light on Houston’s past.
Building for the Future
Coming Soon!
Hispanic History Research Center
We are also excited to announce the upcoming Hispanic History Research Center, which will be located in the Turkey Bend area. This new center will focus on the history and cultural contributions of Houston’s Hispanic community, offering a wealth of resources and materials that celebrate the diverse heritage of Hispanic Texans.
With access to historical documents, photographs, cultural artifacts, and oral histories, the center will provide valuable insights into the region’s rich Hispanic roots. It will become a cornerstone for research on Hispanic history and will continue the mission of making diverse historical narratives accessible to all.