Former Texas Governor Dolph Briscoe Jr. has established the Dolph and Janey Briscoe Fund for Texas History, a $3 million endowment at the Center for American History at The University of Texas at Austin to support any activity, program, film, collection, acquisition, project, or publication in the general field of Texas history. The Dolph and Janey Briscoe Fund for Texas History is the largest gift that any individual has ever given the Center.

"The history of Texas has long been a passion of mine," said Governor Briscoe. "Accordingly, I have been an avid fan of the Center for American History on behalf of the cause of Texas history. I believe that the outstanding work that the Center carries out should be continued and expanded."

"The Dolph and Janey Briscoe Fund will make it possible for the Center to greatly expand its efforts to facilitate, encourage, and support research and teaching in the field of Texas history," said Dr. Don Carleton, executive director of the Center for American History.

About Governor Briscoe

Dolph Briscoe has led a distinguished career in public service, business, and ranching. He is recognized as one of the leading citizens of the state and a benevolent supporter of many civic, cultural, and educational institutions in Texas and the nation.

To learn more about his life, read a biographical sketch and view a gallery of photographs and artifacts representing his devotion to his family, the state of Texas, and his careers in ranching and politics.

Governor Briscoe and the Center for American History

Governor Briscoe has been a longtime supporter of the Center. In addition to the creation of the Briscoe endowment, his passion for Texas history and his enthusiasm for the Center's Texas History Collection have made multiple projects and acquisitions possible, including:

The acquisition of the Gov. Dolph and Janey Briscoe Alamo Daguerreotype, the oldest datable photograph taken in Texas.

The recent acquisition of an important letter from Sam Houston, January 1, 1837, two months into his first term as president of the Republic of Texas.

The publication of Ross Sterling, Texan: A Memoir by the Founder of Humble Oil and Refining Company.

Gov. Briscoe was instrumental in the transfer of the John Nance Garner Museum from the City of Uvalde to the Center for American History in 1999. He also contributed to the establishment of the John Nance Garner Endowment Fund for the museum.

Governor Briscoe has also donated his personal and gubernatorial papers to the Center.  View the Guide to the Dolph Briscoe Papers.

Dolph Briscoe: My Life in Texas Ranching and Politics

Governor Briscoe’s memoir will be published by the Center in Spring 2008.

Read Gov. Briscoe’s account of his first inauguration, an excerpt from his memoir.

Feature Home | Introduction | Biography | Book Excerpt | Gallery