Timed to coincide with the anniversary of the Battle of San Jacinto, the San Jacinto Day Dinner gathered history buffs, philanthropists, and community leaders for an evening of reflection and celebration at the Houston Country Club.
As the San Jacinto Museum’s largest annual fundraiser, this year’s dinner in April set a new benchmark, raising more than $300,000 in support of the museum’s operations and educational programming.
The evening paid tribute to two outstanding champions of Texas history.
Sarah Spohn Kleberg Johnson Pitt was posthumously honored for her steadfast support of the museum and her deep commitment to preserving the state’s historical legacy. A proud Texan and dedicated board member of the San Jacinto Museum, Pitt was instrumental in expanding exhibits and strengthening educational outreach. Her family, many of whom were in attendance, accepted the recognition on her behalf, turning the moment into a poignant tribute to her life, values, and impact.
Brandon Seale, known for his powerful storytelling and meticulous research, delivered a keynote address that captivated the audience. He has brought Texas narratives to wider audiences through writing, podcasting, and public history work. His keynote address skillfully blended humor, historical depth, and modern relevance, forging a compelling connection between past and present, and reminding the audience why the telling of Texas history is never finished.
Among those in attendance were Coble Jorgensen, Mike Lamb, Nancy Burch, Sarita and Jake Francis, Allegra and Hunter Hawkins, Stephen Pitt Jr., Stephen Pitt Sr., Katie and Paul Barnhart, Anne and Stephen Brollier, Mia Brous, Kimberly and Austin Davis, Rachel and Austin Gilbert, Windi and David Grimes, Coble and Jeff Jorgensen, Lisa and Will Mathis, Kathleen and Townes Pressler, and Carson and Arthur Seeligson.
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Editor's note: This article has been updated to better reflect the evening's purpose.
Photo by Daniel Ortiz
The Pitt Family (Sarita Francis , Stephen Pitt, Sr , Stephen Pitt, Jr, and Allegra Hawkins) with Mike Lamb and Sarita Hixon.
