Communities throughout the United States will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence with America 250 events held on and around July 4, 2026. 

In Rockport-Fulton,Texas, the historic Fulton Mansion will host a “star-spangled Block Party” on Thursday, July 2, 2026. Activities include crafts, Victorian-era yard games, live music by the Marcy Grace Band, and more. Several food trucks will be on site. 

The Fulton Mansion took a few years to build, and was completed in 1877. George and Harriet Fulton exercised great ingenuity in building Fulton Mansion and its grounds. Among many of George’s talents, he used his engineering skills in constructing their dream home. Harriet used her love for flowers in making the grounds a show place. Because of the surrounding huge, sturdy oaks, they called their mansion Oakhurst. 

The Live Oak Peninsula where it’s located grew greatly under Fulton family’s auspices. George was an early pioneer in the local meat packing industry and an early adopter of barbed wire fencing in the ranching business. In 1888, he played a large part in bringing the train to Rockport. He and several family members held patents. They constantly looked for ways to improve their business and technology, always dreaming of better and bigger plans for the Rockport area.

Harriet Fulton added her touch by beautifying the grounds with flowers. Today her garden is about 7,600 square feet, exhibiting the Victorian era’s connection to nature. Plants and flowers make up the garden that showcase a combination of kinds ordered by Harriet. Popular for the time period, they are native to Rockport today. Butterflies and hummingbirds love them.

In its time, Fulton Mansion was admired and respected for its far-in-advance conveniences like gas lighting, central heat, and indoor plumbing with hot and cold running water. George and Harriet lived in their mansion for 18 years, after which a succession of owners, a restaurant, a backdrop for a trailer park, and a recreation center came into play.

In 1976, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department acquired the mansion, and in 2008 it became a Texas Historical Commission property.

Educator Courtney Smith at the Fulton Mansion Historic State Site says, “America250 is about more than remembering the founding of a nation. It also recognizes all histories and stories that go into making America and its people. While George and Harriet’s story began after the American Revolution, it embodies the spirit of innovation. Join us in 2026 for programming that not only looks back at the American and Fulton history but your own. We look forward to seeing you.”

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Cover photo courtesy Fulton Mansion State Historic Site 

Minnie Payne grew up in South Carolina but because of her husband’s government job, lived in many different U.S. cities. Having lived in Texas 38 years, she claims it as home and appreciates the many opportunities and advantages that the Lone Star State provides.