Forts Trail board meets in Albany last week

The Texas Forts Trail Board met in Albany at the Aztec Theater last week for a regular meeting of the regional branch of the Texas Historical Commission.

“We have board meetings several times a year,” said board vice president Ramby Anderson. “But this was the first time in at least two years that we hosted the event in Albany. Mary Beth (Jones) joined us because there were Chamber representatives from other areas, and it was a good chance for her to get to meet them.”

Other locals who attended the Texas Forts board meeting were Fort Griffin State Historical Site manager Mitch Baird and Fort Griffin cattle manager Will Craddock.

Around 25 people were at the gathering on June 27, including the board’s executive director Margaret Hoogstra, and board members from area towns including San Angelo, Graham, and Sweetwater.

“We are one of 10 regions in the state,” said Anderson. “We are trying to get people to come out and see, not only the forts, but also all of the other great places and events that we have to offer in this part of Texas, including things like the Old Jail Art Center and the Fandangle.”

Anderson added that his primary responsibility on the board is promoting “heritage tourism” in the Albany area while Hoogstra travels across the state representing the entire Texas Forts Trail region, handing out promotional material, and encouraging people to come and experience firsthand some real places and real stories of Texas’ heritage and culture.