Discover the stories hidden beneath the Texas coast at the Archeology Fair at Port Isabel Lighthouse State Historic Site on October 23 and 24. Visitors to the event can explore South Texas shipwrecks, learn about prehistoric archeological sites, and even watch archeologists conduct fieldwork on the historic lighthouse grounds. 

The free fair highlights the cultural and maritime history of the Texas coast while providing a behind-the-scenes look at the science of archeology. 

Friday’s activities begin at 3 p.m. at the Lighthouse Boutique Hotel, 401 E. Maxan St., where Houston-based Burns & McDonnell will give a presentation about the Garcia Pasture Site.  

The Keeper’s Cottage Visitor Center will host a reception from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., with VIP lighthouse tours from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. 

At 7:30 p.m. on Friday, State Archeologist Brad Jones and State Marine Archeologist Amy Borgens will give a presentation on the lawn of the lighthouse, 421 E. Queen Isabella Blvd. Their presentation, projected onto the historic lighthouse itself, will explore shipwrecks and maritime archeology of South Texas, and explore how archeologists have uncovered clues about the coastal region’s past.  

On Saturday, October 24, the lighthouse grounds will feature vendors and family-friendly activities from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.  

Visitors can also watch archeologists at work as they conduct shovel tests on the lighthouse grounds, offering a glimpse into how researchers investigate historic sites before future construction projects. 

The lighthouse will be open for tours from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.  

The Archeology Fair is part of Texas Archeology Month, a celebration of history and heritage through the lens of archeology. 

About Port Isabel Lighthouse State Historic Site 

Built in 1852, the Port Isabel Lighthouse operated until 1905. Today, a 3rd Order Fresnel Lens lights up the dark skies at night, bringing the lighthouse to its former glory. The Port Isabel Lighthouse is the only climbable lighthouse in Texas. Seventy-five steps lead to an observation deck, giving visitors unmatched sights of South Padre Island and the Texas coastline. 

About the Texas Historical Commission  

The Texas Historical Commission is the state's official historic preservation agency. It preserves, operates, and manages 42 state historic sites, the Texas Heritage Trails Program, Texas Main Street Program, Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation Program, and many more heritage tourism and historic preservation initiatives across the state. The Texas Historical Commission's mission is to protect and preserve the state’s historic and prehistoric resources for the use, education, enjoyment, and economic benefit of present and future generations. For more information, visit thc.texas.gov.