Preservation in the Panhandle: The Potter County

Historical Commission

The Potter County Historical Commission (PCHC) serves as the primary advocate for historical preservation within the heart of the Texas Panhandle. Operating as an arm of the Potter County government, the commission is tasked with identifying, protecting, and interpreting the rich cultural and architectural heritage of Amarillo and the surrounding plains.

Foundation and Legislative Evolution

The PCHC is part of a statewide network of commissions mandated by the Texas Local Government Code. While local interest in history dates back to the 1930s, the modern PCHC was formalized in 1973 when the state legislature transitioned "County Historical Survey Committees" into official "County Historical Commissions."

Today, the commission is composed of volunteers appointed by the Potter County Commissioners Court. These individuals typically possess expertise in history, archaeology, or architecture, and they serve two-year terms with the shared goal of maintaining the county’s historical identity.

Core Functions and Responsibilities

The PCHC acts as a bridge between the local community and the Texas Historical Commission (THC) in Austin. Their work generally falls into three categories:

• The Marker Program: The PCHC is responsible for researching and vetting applications for Official Texas Historical Markers. They ensure that the narratives presented on these plaques are factually accurate and meet the state's rigorous criteria for historical significance.

• National Register Nominations: The commission assists property owners in nominating local landmarks—such as the Potter County Courthouse or the historic homes of the Plemons-Eakle neighborhood—to the National Register of Historic Places.

• Archival Preservation: By collaborating with local libraries and museums, the PCHC helps maintain records of the county’s development, from its origins as a railroad hub and cattle shipping center to its growth during the oil and gas booms.

Significant Landmarks Under PCHC Oversight

Potter County’s history is uniquely tied to the expansion of the American West. The PCHC focuses on diverse sites, including:

1. The 1932 Potter County Courthouse: A striking example of Art Deco architecture that serves as the seat of local government.

2. Route 66: The commission plays a vital role in preserving the "Mother Road" corridor that runs through Amarillo, ensuring that the neon signs and mid-century architecture are not lost to modern development.

3. The Santa Fe Depot: A testament to the railroad’s role in making Amarillo the primary commercial center of the Panhandle.

Challenges and Modern Mission

In the 21st century, the PCHC faces the challenge of balancing urban growth with preservation. As Amarillo expands, the commission advocates for the "adaptive reuse" of older buildings—encouraging developers to repurpose historic structures rather than demolishing them. Their mission is rooted in the belief that historical preservation is not just about the past, but about providing a sense of place and continuity for the future.

Conclusion

The Potter County Historical Commission remains a vital guardian of the Texas Panhandle’s legacy. Through its dedication to education, documentation, and physical preservation, it ensures that the stories of the pioneers, ranchers, and innovators who built Potter County are not forgotten by the generations to come.