The Irving Heritage Society was founded in 1978 as an outgrowth of the American Bicentennial Commission. Mr. and Mrs. Neill English and Mr. and Mrs. O. D. Bates, who directed the Commission, realized a permanent organization was needed to support a renewed interest in history, especially local history, and to maintain and preserve Heritage House. That same year, the Heritage Society was launched at the first vintage Valentine Tea on February 14.

The Society selected the depot logo because of Irving's beginning as a railroad town. Soon, the group found a new project, the establishment of Heritage Park. The project included restoration of the Caster cabin and the acquisition of a depot, caboose, vintage water tank, and windmill for the park.

Information about the Society:

Ongoing Society activities include:

• Co-sponsoring the former Irving Heritage Festival
• Bracebridge Dinner, based on Washington Irving's "Old Christmas". See 2004 photos.
• Washington Irving birthday events
• Vintage style shows
• Outstanding speakers and lecturers
• The Whistle Stop newsletter
• Teas - Theme teas, Sunnyside tea for children, Valentine Tea
• Historic home tours
• Marking historical sites and Irving landmarks

The Society has cooperated with the City of Irving's Preservation and Redevelopment Board in:

• Naming the Historic Heritage District
• Sponsoring historic tours and trails
• Supplying encouragement and expertise for the founding and development of Bear Creek Heritage Park

Awards received by The Society include:

• Citations from the Texas Historical Commission, the Dallas County Historical Commission, and the Texas African American Heritage Organization
• "Best performance by civic or religious organization" in Irving in 1991
• First and second place in the July 4th parades in 1988 and 1989
• First place in the 1988 Christmas Parade

A long-term goal of the society is the establishment of an Irving Museum.

Last updated on September 11, 2007