For its third Fuller Circle gathering, the Austin History Center Association (AHCA) honored what would have been Governor Ann Richards’ 90th birthday with a packed event featuring Margaret Justus and Sarah Bird. The evening was a tribute to Ann Richards’ wit, wisdom, and transformative leadership, highlighting her legacy, humor, and fearless approach to politics.

A Tribute to a Texas Icon

The event centered on the book The One and Only: Wit and Wisdom from Texas Governor Ann Richards, which Justus spearheaded through the Ann Richards Legacy Project. The book combines rare photos with Ann’s famous quips, capturing her charisma, leadership, and advocacy.

Sarah Bird, a celebrated Texas writer, set the tone with an impassioned introduction, calling Richards one of her two lifelong heroes. She described Ann’s time in office as a brief yet powerful Camelot-like era, when Texas government finally reflected the diversity of its people.

Margaret Justus, a former deputy press secretary for Richards, followed with a personal reflection on the governor’s impact, sharing how the Legacy Project placed 300 Ann Richards banners in major Texas cities to mark the 30th anniversary of her inauguration. She recounted Ann’s unwavering fight for social justice, her humble roots, and how her time in wartime San Diego shaped her belief in equality and inclusion.

Stories and Laughter in the Church of Ann

The event was filled with stories that captured Ann’s humor, toughness, and larger-than-life personality. Justus recalled Richards’ gubernatorial win over Clayton Williams, a race where she overcame a 27-point polling deficit—helped in part by Williams’ own missteps.

Audience members shared personal encounters, including one where Ann was spotted late at night buying heavy metal records, a mystery that remains unsolved. Others recalled her commitment to mentoring women, breaking barriers in government, and speaking out for marginalized communities.

A Lasting Legacy

The night ended with a surprise proclamation from Austin Mayor Kirk Watson, officially declaring September 1, 2023, as “Governor Ann Richards Day” in Austin. Justus closed with a call to action: The next goal of the Ann Richards Legacy Project is to establish a permanent tribute to Ann in downtown Austin, likely a contemporary art installation rather than a traditional statue.

A Fuller Circle

The event highlighted the importance of preserving and sharing Austin’s overlooked histories, particularly those of communities often left out of mainstream narratives. More than just a history lesson, the Fuller Circle series serves as a bridge—connecting people to AHCA’s mission and ensuring these stories live on.

Attendees left with signed copies of Roberts’ book, a richer understanding of Austin’s past, and a renewed appreciation for the city’s diverse cultural fabric. AHCA welcomes both members and non-members to future events, inviting them to help make Austin’s history more accessible, engaging, and complete.