Bicentennial celebration lights up Gonzales Memorial Museum

Hundreds of residents and visitors gathered Thursday evening, Oct. 2, at the Gonzales Memorial Museum to celebrate the city’s 200th anniversary and the premiere of Texas Legacy in Lights — a new multimedia show that brings Gonzales’ rich history to life. 

Hosted by the City of Gonzales and the Gonzales Main Street program, the Bicentennial Celebration transformed the museum grounds into a showcase of local pride. Families enjoyed live music, food vendors, and an old-time photo booth before the crowd gathered to witness the debut of the permanent light and sound experience projected onto the museum’s historic façade. 

Mayor Isaac Anzaldua welcomed guests and was presented with a flag that had been flown over the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., in honor of Gonzales’ 200-year milestone. The mayor also recognized Joey Evans, Director of Business Support and Development, for his and his company TXGN’s continued dedication to the community, including sponsorship of the VIP area and support for numerous local events throughout the year. 

“We are grateful for the gifts given to the City of Gonzales from the Honorable Monica De La Cruz, Member of Congress, as well as the proclamation from Senator Lois Kolkhorst to commemorate our 200th birthday,” Anzaldua said. “To know that our city is being recognized on a state and national level for our achievements is something our community can be proud of.” 

The celebration was made possible through the support of many local partners. McCoy’s Building Supply and Manny Manny’s sponsored the landscaping and beautification around the museum grounds, while other community organizations provided food, water, and other essentials throughout the evening. Members of the Pilot Club of Gonzales volunteered their time to wrap more than 500 hot dogs, which were then handed out by members of the Jr. Main Street Board and the Gonzales CYFL football team to attendees throughout the event. 

Among those in attendance were members of the Texas Legacy in Lights cast and crew, including Misti King, John Pirkle, and others who helped bring the production to life. They spoke briefly before the premiere, sharing their excitement and pride in being part of a project designed to honor Gonzales’ legacy in such a creative and enduring way. 

As night fell, the museum came alive with Texas Legacy in Lights, which uses projection mapping, narration, and music to tell the story of Gonzales — from its founding in 1825 to its role in the fight for Texas independence and its enduring community spirit. The show, which will continue to run Tuesday through Sunday at 8:25 p.m. and 9:15 p.m., offers residents and visitors alike a chance to experience the history of Gonzales in a whole new way. 

“One hundred years from now, our community will look back and see how we continued to embody the Come and Take It spirit — a spirit of determination, love, and peace,” Anzaldua said. “To know that we share a part in shaping the future of our great city is exciting and very rewarding.” 

The evening closed with applause and reflection as attendees celebrated not only 200 years of history but also the people and partnerships that continue to keep Gonzales’ legacy shining bright.