Shown are Jack and Billie Wendt were honored by the Fort Bend Co. Historical Commission

Three years ago the Fort Bend County Historical Commission created an annual award called "the Fort Bend County Heritage Award" as a way to honor the achievements of a certain person or organization whose achievements exemplify one or more of the following:

1.) the promotion of historic and cultural sites;

2.) the promotion of awareness of, and appreciation for, historical preservation;

3.) the identification of important and possibly endangered historical sites or properties; and

4.) the preservation of historical and cultural resources.

On March 3, a couple, Billie and Jack Wendt of Richmond, who have repeatedly contributed their time, talents, and finances to each of these endeavors were honored and presented with the award by FBC Historical Chair Bert Bleil and Fort Bend County Commissioner Richard Morrison "In their case, you can call it a life’s work," added Morrison.

Billie Harris Wendt, whose family has contributed to our county’s greatness for a century and a half, for three decades has volunteered her time, resources, and leadership talent in service to the Fort Bend Museum Association.

A native of the Fulshear area, Bille Wendt has labored for the preservation and upkeep of the historic Fulshear Cemetery, which dates back to 1850. She was a part of the team of volunteers whose research and other contributions led to the cemetery’s designation as a Texas historical site and the erection there of a state marker.

Jack Wendt, a veteran rice farmer, shares his wife’s passion for history and can point to accomplishments of his own. A recent example is his role in the restoration of the Elizabeth Powell Texas Centennial marker located in western Fort Bend County, which indicates both the 1830s Powell pioneer home site and a camp site of the invading Mexican army.

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