AUSTIN, Texas— Today, Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham, M.D., and the Texas General Land Office's (GLO) Save Texas History Program encourage Texans to "give the gift of Texas history" to any history buff or fan of the Lone Star State this holiday season.
"As a ninth-generation Texan, when the holiday season approaches, I am reminded of the sacrifices made by my ancestors and the duty I share as Land Commissioner to preserve our state's rich history," said Commissioner Buckingham. "When I look at this ornament, I am reminded that the defenders of the Alamo would have been guided by a compass like this one on the path to defend their fledgling nation, much like the Three Wise Men were guided by the North Star to see the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. This year, we can preserve Texas history and support conservation efforts by purchasing the GLO's 2025 Christmas Ornament. Texans can also give the gift of Texas history by purchasing any one of our 45,000 maps, sketches, and drawings from our treasured archival collection.”
Commissioner Dawn Buckingham, M.D., shows the 2025 GLO Christmas Ornament now for sale. All proceeds will benefit the Save Texas History program at the GLO
This year’s General Land Office Ornament supporting the Save Texas History program is inspired by the Yellow Rose Compass found on Commissioner Buckingham’s Alamo Defenders Heritage Map of Texas. The Commissioner’s map shows the approximate locations of the 245 land grants issued by the Republic and State of Texas to the heirs of the men who died at the Alamo to reward their service to the cause of Texas Independence.
The map pays homage to the distinct heritage of the Alamo defenders by honoring where they came from, commemorating their heroic service, and acknowledging the debt paid to them by Texas for making the ultimate sacrifice for freedom. The unique artwork on this map, including the Yellow Rose Compass, is inspired by the architecture and historic frescos in the Alamo Sacristy, creating a distinctive visual that blends art, history, and heritage.
Commissioner Dawn Buckingham's Alamo Defenders Heritage Map
Texans can also use the GLO's map database and store at HistoricTexasMaps.com to discover unique map collections, explore popular maps, and find the perfect piece of Texas history to give the most meaningful gift this holiday season and year-round.
To order the 2025 GLO Christmas Ornament, click the button below:
2025 Yellow Rose of Texas Ornament
To order the Alamo Defenders Heritage map, click the button below:
Orders must be placed by December 19th to ensure on-time delivery for Christmas.
Created in 2004, the Save Texas History program is a statewide initiative to rally public support and private funding for preserving and promoting the historic maps and documents housed in the GLO Archives.
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Dr. Dawn Buckingham made history in 2022, winning a statewide election to become Texas' first female Land Commissioner. As Land Commissioner, Dr. Dawn Buckingham is committed to helping Texans after a disaster, supporting Texas energy, ensuring that every child in Texas receives a high-quality public education, serving Texas Veterans, and securing the border to keep our communities safe.