Mesquite, TX - July 5, 2019 - The Texas Historical Commission (THC) has recognized City Lake Park as a significant part of Texas history by awarding it an Official Texas Historical Marker.  The designation honors the site as an important and educational part of local history.

A dedication ceremony will be held on July 17, 10 a.m., near 200 Parkview Street. Speakers for the afternoon will include Mesquite Mayor Stan Pickett and Dallas County Historical Commission Chairman Richard Stewart. Historic Mesquite, Inc. (HMI) and the City of Mesquite Parks & Recreation Department welcome the public to share in this exciting historical event.

“The Official Texas Historical Marker program helps bring attention to community treasures and the importance of their preservation,” said Mark Wolfe, executive director of the THC.  “Awareness and education are among the best ways to guarantee the preservation of our state’s history.  This designation is a tool that will increase public awareness of important cultural resources,” Wolfe said.

A subject qualifies for a marker if two basic criteria are met: historical significance and age. Historical significance is established by reviewing its role and importance in local history, and the age requirement depends on the topic. The THC’s Official Texas Marker Policies are outlined in the Official Texas Historical Marker Procedures, which may be obtained by contacting the History Programs Division, Texas Historical Commission, at 512-463-5853 or visiting www.thc.texas.gov.

“It’s part of our mission to preserve history of the community,” said Helen Ethridge, chair of HMI.  “This marker will ensure generations of residents will know the story behind the creation of this park.”

Texas has the largest marker program in the United States with approximately 15,000 markers. Mesquite has 14 markers – four cemeteries, eight subject markers and two RTHL properties. Seventeen states have used the Texas program as a model; the THC reviews more than 300 marker applications each year.