Fredericksburg, Texas – At its regular Tuesday, Feb. 17 meeting, the Fredericksburg City Council voted unanimously to expand its partnership with the Texas Historical Commission (THC) by approving a new Operating Agreement that formally transfers approximately 11.96 acres of City‑owned land adjacent to Fort Martin Scott to THC and establishes a framework for major future improvements at the historic site.

This agreement strengthens the collaborative effort that began on May 21, 2024 when the Council unanimously entered into an agreement that took effect on June 1, 2024, and transferred the title of the 15.07 acres that Fort Martin Scott sits on, plus all of the buildings, equipment and artifacts to THC.

This new agreement has an effective date of February 17, 2026 and seeks to preserve, maintain and enhance Fort Martin Scott—considered the first outpost of the U.S. Army in Texas and a key heritage asset in Fredericksburg and the Hill Country. 

Under the approved terms, THC will assume full ownership and operational responsibility for the transferred property, including all existing event facilities, parking areas, infrastructure and amenities associated with the site.

A centerpiece of the agreement is THC’s plan to construct an interactive heritage center currently referred to as The Frontier Experience at Fort Martin Scott. The proposed facility will feature educational exhibits, galleries and interpretive elements highlighting the history of Fort Martin Scott, Native American communities, the Texas Rangers and other significant cultural narratives tied to the region. It is planned to be a family-friendly experience and an excellent destination for student field trips.

Milestones and Project Commitments

The agreement outlines key expectations and timelines, including:

• Delivery of schematic design plans to the City Manager within three years.
• THC securing funding through legislative appropriations, grants, donations or partnerships within seven years.
• Commencement of construction within seven years and substantial completion within 10 years.
• Semi‑annual progress reports to the City Council throughout design and construction.

Under the agreement, all Gillespie County residents will receive free admission to Fort Martin Scott upon showing proof of residency.

City’s Role and Protections
The City of Fredericksburg will continue supporting the project through consultation and collaboration but will not bear operational or financial responsibility for the site once the property transfer is completed. The contract includes reversion clauses ensuring that ownership of the transferred property returns to the City if THC is unable to meet key deadlines, ceases operations or lacks sustained funding.

About Fort Martin Scott
Established in 1848, Fort Martin Scott is recognized as one of Texas’ earliest frontier military posts and remains a valued cultural and educational resource. The enhanced partnership with THC will allow the site to benefit from the agency’s extensive expertise in historic site operations, preservation, and public programming.

About the Texas Historical Commission
The Texas Historical Commission is the state agency for historic preservation. THC works to identify, preserve, and promote historically significant sites across Texas through stewardship, education, and program leadership.

To learn more about the City of Fredericksburg, go to FBGTX.org or contact City Hall at (830) 997-7521. 

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