Fifty years ago, in the summer of 1975, a small but determined group of Grand Prairie residents decided their city’s past was too important to lose. Led by longtime civic leader Ruthe Jackson, they formed the Grand Prairie Historical Organization.
Their purpose was clear: to preserve and pass on to future generations the history of Grand Prairie. The charter members pledged not to be a social club but a working society, meeting only three times a year while devoting most of their energy to research, fundraising, and the preservation of local landmarks like the Goodwin Cabin and the Jordan–Bowles Home.
Tonight, the City of Grand Prairie officially honored that vision. With a proclamation signed by Mayor Ron Jensen and presented by Ruthe Jackson’s daughter, City Councilwoman Jorja Clemson read the proclamation to friends and members of the organization.
The proclamation read:
Whereas on August 23rd, 1975, the Grand Prairie Historical Organization was founded by Ms. Ruthe Jackson to preserve, protect, and promote the rich history of Grand Prairie. And whereas for five decades the organization has worked diligently to document stories, safeguard landmarks, and educate both residents and visitors about the city’s heritage and its role in the history of Texas… Therefore, I, Mayor Ron Jensen, on behalf of the citizens and the City Council of Grand Prairie, Texas, do hereby recognize August 23rd, 2025, as the 50th anniversary of the Grand Prairie Historical Organization and encourage all citizens to join in recognizing the members, past and present, whose dedication, talent, and passion have preserved and celebrated our city’s history.
The proclamation was officially signed, sealed, and delivered to the organization’s current President Bonnie Cockrum — a fitting tribute to five decades of preserving Grand Prairie’s past.
The celebration took place at the Grand Prairie Historical Museum, itself a milestone in the organization’s story. Opened in 2017, the museum serves as a permanent home for artifacts, photographs, and archives that span the city’s growth from a pioneer settlement to a thriving urban center.
Tonight also marked a changing of the guard. New officers were elected and reflect a mix of longtime historians and younger members stepping into leadership — a passing of the torch that brought excitement to everyone in attendance. The blend of experience and fresh energy promises a strong future for the organization’s mission.
New officers pictured below, from left to right:
President: Kay Dunbar
Vice President: Michael Sabat
Treasurer: Larry Barnes
Secretary: Jonathan Stegmann
Adding to the evening’s momentum, Stephanie Moreno presented an interactive history session titled “From Birth to Death.” The program traced Grand Prairie’s past through its doctors and hospitals, and even into its cemeteries. Attendees were invited to add their own stories and memories, which were recorded as part of the living archive.
As the proclamation was read aloud and the seal affixed, it was clear that what began as a determined group of volunteers in 1975 has grown into an institution woven into the very identity of Grand Prairie.
For fifty years, the Historical Organization has safeguarded the city’s story. And now, with new leadership, a dedicated museum, and community members still contributing their own voices, the work of memory-keeping is set to continue for generations more.
How to Support the Grand Prairie Historical Organization and Museum
The work of preserving Grand Prairie’s history depends on members, volunteers, and the generosity of the community.
➡️ Become a Member
Memberships are available at several levels:
Student Membership – $20
Teacher Membership – $20
Preservation Member – $25
History Maker Member – $100
Dechman Member – $200
Small Business Member – $250
Corporate Member – $500
➡️ Donate
Contributions directly support the GPHO & Museum, helping care for archives, preserve artifacts, and expand educational programming. You can also donate items from your own history in Grand Prairie…nothing is insignificant when it comes to our city’s history.
➡️ Visit the Museum
The Grand Prairie Historical Museum is open Monday–Saturday, 1–4 p.m. Visitors can explore permanent exhibits, rotating displays, and archives that bring the city’s history to life. Admission is free, and donations are appreciated.
➡️ Fundraiser: Walking Through History Brick Walkway Project
Community members and businesses can purchase commemorative bricks for a walkway that will become a permanent part of the museum grounds. Bricks can honor a loved one, celebrate school pride, or spotlight a business — and every purchase supports museum enhancements, expanded exhibits, and more engaging displays.
➡️ Volunteer
From cataloging historic items to welcoming museum visitors, volunteers keep the organization strong.
Enjoy more pictures from the museum.
