Welcome!
Welcome to the website for the McLennan County Historical Commission!
This commission was created to provide leadership and coordinating services in the field of archeological, historical, and cultural preservation focusing on McLennan County, Texas.
We are charged with the duty of implementing and maintaining programs, services and projects aimed at promoting, restoring, and preserving historically significant information, structures, sites, and landmarks in this county.
We welcome your interest and invite you to learn more about our programs.
Celebrating Black Freedom Colonies of McLennan County with Charles L. Perkins
WHEN:
Monday, June 15th, 2026
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
WHERE:
West Waco Library & Genealogy Center
5301 Bosque Blvd., Waco, TX
In honor of America's 250th anniversary, join the late Charles L. Perkins Sr. of the McLennan County Historical Commission for a pre-recorded presentation in which he shares the powerful and often overlooked stories of the Freedom Colonies of McLennan County—communities he calls "The Elite 11." Perkins will share how he traced the formerly enslaved families that built thriving settlements grounded in faith, education, and community. Discover how the Black church became the cornerstone of cultural life, how Juneteenth shaped identity, and why preserving oral history remains vital to understanding our shared American story.
Note: Copies of Mr. Perkins' book will be available for purchase at the event, courtesy of Mrs. Perkins.
In honor of Black History Month, we are proud to highlight the work of Charles Perkins and his research on the Black Freedom Colonies in McLennan County (1865-1895). Please explore the brochure below to learn more about this vital local history.
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