The Austin History Center Association’s annual Angelina Eberly Luncheon is more than just a gathering—it’s a cornerstone event that fuels our mission to preserve and share the rich and diverse stories of Austin. This year, we invite you to join us on April 9th at the Austin Club to celebrate our city’s history while supporting the essential work that keeps it alive.

 

Honoring Angelina Eberly’s Legacy

Named for Angelina Eberly, the fearless innkeeper who, in 1842, saved Austin’s status as the capital of Texas by firing a cannon to alert citizens of an attempt to steal the national archives, the luncheon embodies her spirit of historical preservation. Like Eberly, the Austin History Center Association works to ensure that our past is never forgotten—through oral histories, archival research, and community storytelling.

Recognizing Excellence in Preserving Austin’s History

At this year’s luncheon, we are proud to present two distinguished awards honoring individuals who have made significant contributions to preserving and celebrating Austin’s rich history:

  • Katherine Drake Hart Award: Established in 1991, this award recognizes a deserving citizen of Travis County who has made a substantial impact on our history through singular achievements or collective work over time. Past recipients have been honored for their dedication to historical research, documentation, and preservation efforts.
  • Sue McBee Living Legacy Award: Inaugurated this year, this award honors individuals who have demonstrated a longstanding commitment to historical preservation and civic leadership. We are delighted to announce that the first recipient of this award is Sinclair Black, a renowned architect and professor at the University of Texas School of Architecture. Professor Black’s dedication to environmental and urban design has significantly contributed to preserving Austin’s architectural heritage.

 

Why This Event Matters

Each year, the luncheon serves as a major fundraiser, sustaining AHCA’s ability to:

  • Capture and preserve Austin’s history through the Oral History Program.
  • Support the Austin History Center’s growth, as the Faulk and 1933 buildings are combined this year into a newly expanded campus dedicated to preserving the city’s archives.
  • Highlight diverse narratives that reflect the full spectrum of Austin’s culture, communities, and historical milestones.

Past luncheons have featured dynamic storytelling and live performances, bringing to life programs such as Women of Antone’s, Esther’s Follies: The Early Years, and Elisabet Ney: A Life in Art. This year’s event will continue that tradition with a compelling program and a special live performance.

How You Can Get Involved

Sponsoring the Angelina Eberly Luncheon is a direct way to support Austin’s history while gaining recognition among the city’s history enthusiasts, civic leaders, and cultural advocates. Sponsorship levels offer unique benefits, including event recognition, complimentary tickets, and exclusive opportunities to engage with AHCA’s work.

To explore sponsorship opportunities, visit www.austinhistory.org/eberly and help us keep Austin’s history alive for generations to come.

Join us in celebrating the past while shaping the future—support the Angelina Eberly Luncheon today.