Texarkana, Texas – On Monday, Mayor Bob Bruggeman led a ceremony on the Texas Boulevard sidewalk in front of City Hall to unveil a historic marker recognizing the building’s new status as a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark (RTHL). The four‑story neoclassical revival structure, built between 1924 and 1925, has served as the heart of municipal government for more than a century.
Mayor highlights the building’s civic legacy
“For more than a century, this building has served as the center of our municipal government, witnessing generations of leadership, public service and decisions that have shaped our community, and that is something that is very, very important,” Bruggeman told the gathered crowd. He added, “This marker represents more than the preservation of a building; it honors the people, events, and civic traditions that have shaped Texarkana and ensures their stories are shared with future generations.”
Architectural and historical significance
The City Hall was designed by the Austin firm C. H. Page & Brother and the local firm Witt, Seibert & Halsey. Its first City Council meeting took place on September 1, 1925, and the building was formally dedicated on November 12 of that year with a parade, banquet and community celebration. The RTHL designation, the highest honor the Texas Historical Commission can bestow on a historic structure, acknowledges both the building’s architectural integrity and its deep historical associations.
What RTHL status means for Texarkana
To qualify for RTHL status, a structure must be at least 50 years old, retain its original architectural features, and be in good repair. Once designated, the property receives a measure of legal protection and becomes part of the recorded history of Texas’s built environment. The designation also encourages continued preservation efforts and can serve as a catalyst for heritage tourism.
Community response
Local residents and business owners expressed pride in the recognition. “Our city’s history is a source of identity and pride,” said longtime Texarkana citizen Maria Alvarez, who attended the ceremony. “Seeing City Hall honored in this way reminds us of the values of service and stewardship that have guided our town for generations.”
Looking ahead
The city plans to incorporate the historic marker into future walking tours and educational programs for schools, ensuring that younger generations learn about the building’s role in Texarkana’s development. Maintenance and preservation work will continue under the guidance of the city’s facilities department, which has committed to keeping the structure in excellent condition.
Mayor Bruggeman concluded the event by thanking the Texas Historical Commission, local historians, and volunteers who helped secure the designation. He emphasized that preserving historic landmarks is a tangible way to honor the past while strengthening community bonds for the future.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
