Texas Historical Commission gets new executive director

Edward Lengel will serve as the sixth executive director for the institution following the retirement of Mark Wolfe. Wolfe announced his retirement plans in January 2023 and left the position at the end of the year after spending 15 years with the commission, according to a news release from the organization.

Lengel is a presidential and military historian, author, and museum executive, according to the news release. Before taking on the role of executive director, Lengel was the Vice President for the National Medal of Honor Museum in Arlington, Texas. He was appointed as the Chief Historian of the White House Historical Association in 2016.

The THC works to preserve Texas cultural landmarks and architectural and archeological history. The 17 members of the commission are appointed by the governor for six-year terms.

While leading the organization as it manages its 38 historic sights, Lengel will also provide regulatory guidance on other historical conservation efforts within the state and federally.

“I’m excited to join the THC and engage with the millions of Texans who love this state’s unique history and recognize how it has contributed to the Lone Star State’s rise as a dynamo of economic and cultural success,” said Lengel in the news release.