History & Culture

Industry & Conservation

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  A New Kind of Park

  Creation of the Preserve

  Citizens, scientists, and grassroots organizations dedicated their work to establish federal protection for the park we enjoy today.

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  A Region Rich in Timber

  Logging the Big Thicket

  The 19th century saw the rise of logging in the Big Thicket.

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  The Oil Boom

  Oil & Gas Industry History

  The discovery of oil in southeast Texas lured workers and businesses to the Big Thicket region.

 

People

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  Living off the Landscape

  Black History at Big Thicket

  Following emancipation, formerly enslaved Blacks built communities in Big Thicket and lived off the land.

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  Activist, Author, Artist, & Ranger

  Geraldine Watson

  Read more about Geraldine Watson, whose passion and expertise helped establish Big Thicket National Preserve.

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  Mr. Big Thicket

  Lance Rosier

  Read more about the famed naturalist nicknamed "Mr. Big Thicket."

 

 

 

Recent History

Big Thicket National Preserve celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2024. The year-long celebration included challenges to earn commemorative pins, a special junior ranger badge, and special events to celebrate 50 years.