Are you one of the people still trying to save the voted-down Astrodome? A local historic preservationist thinks he has just the T-shirt for you.
James Glassman created Houstorian, an education and advocacy group "committed to telling the story of Houston, preserving its cultural and architectural history, and supporting the landmarks that make Houston fun and unique." The group's website includes articles and information about local landmarks — including plenty railing against the possible demolition of the beloved Astrodome — as well as a store to purchase custom-designed shirts so you can "wear Houston."
"Over the years, as a designer, I found that I have sketchbooks filled with drawings, doodles, logos, graphics, portraits, and ideas, mostly about Houston," Glassman tells CultureMap. "This past summer, it struck me that many of these images would look good on a shirt."
"Remember, we're a city of scientists, innovators, tinkerers, and dreamers. I am confident the Astrodome will outlive us all."
The store includes men's and women's shirts emblazoned with everything from the 77006 zip code — with a seven that looks like the awning of the area's Menil Collection — to the site's most popular design, that of an outline of the Inner Loop.
"These designs showcase our distinctiveness as Houstonians," Glassman says. One of the most popular T-shirts sold is one of the Astrodome with the famous phrase "Come and Take It" — inspired by the flag flown during the Texas Revolution's Battle of Gonzales — written underneath.
Glassman is one of many Houstonians who feel that the Astrodome could be salvaged. He says that while it isn't in the best shape, it certainly isn't "falling down" and would be more of a hassle to deal with if destroyed.
"In spite of November's failed bond election, I remain completely optimistic on the Astrodome's prospects. Look at how much it will take for owner Harris County to knock it down and how much to fill in the nine and half acres, thirty feet deep hole," Glassman wrote in an email. "Once we find a design solution that captures our imagination, then we'll forget why it took us so long to get there.
"Remember, we're a city of scientists, innovators, tinkerers and dreamers. I am confident the Astrodome will outlive us all."
In the meantime, Glassman wants you to show your love for the nearly 50-year-old structure in a custom T-shirt. The shirts go for $24.70.
"Come and Take It" Astrodome T-shirts, available from Houstorian [http: /houstorian.spreadshirt.com/].
