Texas History for Kids
Texas History for Kids is a podcast where young listeners explore the stories they didn’t hear about in school—from legendary battles and forgotten monuments to the strange, enchanted, and unexplained corners of the Lone Star State. New episodes air every Monday.
126 - The Name Beneath the Map: Juan Seguín and the Texas Revolution
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Who was Juan Seguín, and why was a Texas town named in his honor?
Today we follow this Tejano leader from the streets of San Antonio to the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto as we uncover his important—and complicated—role in the Texas Revolution.
Sources
"Juan Seguín," Texas State Library and Archives Commission, Treasures of History series (tsl.texas.gov)The Portal to Texas History (University of North Texas Libraries) — "Texas History for Teachers: Who Was Juan Se...125 - The Mountain of Bones
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When you think of treasure in the Old Western times of Texas, you might think of oil, cattle, land. But for a few crucial years in the early 1880s, the most valuable thing lying around the Texas plains was the skeleton of a dead buffalo.
In this episode we discover what happened to the remains of millions of buffalo that were brought to the bring of extinction.
Source:
https://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/entries/bone-business
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124 - The Cart Wars: The Road No One Wanted to Talk About
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In this episode we uncover the little-known story of the Cart War in Texas. During the 1850s, Mexican and Tejano carreteros hauled goods by ox cart from Gulf Coast ports to towns like San Antonio. But their success made them targets. Learn how transportation, business rivalry, and questions of belonging turned a dusty Texas road into a dangerous chapter of history.
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123 - The Father of Texas Education: Mirabeau Lamar’s Complicated Legacy
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In this episode of Texas History for Kids, we'll discuss the story of Mirabeau B. Lamar, the second president of the Republic of Texas. Known as the “Father of Texas Education,” Lamar helped set aside public land for schools and universities, supported moving the capital to Austin, and dreamed of a powerful independent Texas, but his legacy also includes debt, conflict, and the failed Santa Fe Expedition.
Sources:
Texas State Library and Archives Commission
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122 - When Camels Roamed Texas
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In this episode we uncover the strange but true story of the U.S. Camel Corps, when camels were brought to Texas to help soldiers travel across hot, dry frontier land. From Camp Verde to the Civil War. Discover why camels seemed like the perfect solution, and why this bold experiment eventually faded into history.
Sources
https://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/entries/camels?
https://www.army.mil/article/166054/the_history_of_the_army_camel_corps?
https://www.n...
121 - The Girl with the Tattoo: The Mystery of Olive Oatman
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In this episode, we explore the mysterious story of Olive Oatman—a young girl who survived a tragic attack, lived for years with the Mojave people, and later settled in Sherman, Texas.
Was she truly rescued… or taken from a life she had come to know?
Join us as we uncover a story of survival, identity, and the complicated truths behind westward expansion.
Sources
https://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/entries/fairchild-olive-ann-oatman
https://npg.si.e...
120 - Why Texas Chose the Confederacy (And What It Cost Them)
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This story takes us to the year 1861. Texas had been a state in the USA for just 16 years. Life was growing. Farms, towns, railroads.
But something was wrong across the United States.
The country was splitting apart and Texas had to make a decision.
Sources
National Archives (Civil War overview)
Texas State Historical Association
Library of Congress (Civil War resources)
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119 - The Kickapoo of Texas
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In our previous episodes we’ve discussed the most famous tribes in Texas such as the Caddo, Jumano and Comanche.
But today we're diving into the story of the Kickapoo people, a nation that has survived centuries of pressure, crossed international borders, and still maintains one of the most remarkable living cultures in North America. And a big part of that story runs right through Texas.
Today we answer the question: How did the Kickapoo end up in...
118 - How Ancient Texans Made Tools Without Metal (And Why It Worked)
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Long before recycling bins existed, ancient Texans were already solving a big problem. In this episode, uncover how skilled flint-knappers turned broken tools into something new—and why their clever ideas still matter today.
Sources
Texas Beyond History — University of Texas at Austin, Texas Archeological Research Laboratory (texasbeyondhistory.net)
Bullock Texas State History Museum, Austin, TX (thestoryoftexas.com)
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117- The Black Bean Drawing at Mier
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It started as a mission. It turned into a mistake.
In 1842, a group of Texan soldiers crossed into Mexico after being ordered to turn back. What they thought would be a quick success became a story of endurance, survival, and difficult choices.
Sources
The Handbook of Texas Online — 'Mier Expedition.' Texas State Historical Association (TSHA). tshaonline.orgThe Handbook of Texas Online — 'Black Bean Episode.' Texas State Historical Association. tshaonline.orgSupport the show
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116 - The Women Who Spoke Up When No One Wanted Them To
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In this episode, we wrap up Women’s History Month by exploring the powerful stories of three Texas women who spoke up when it mattered most.
From a fearless journalist in Laredo who stood her ground against injustice, to a civil rights leader in Houston who helped challenge unfair laws, to a governor who broke barriers and led the entire state, these women used their voices to create real change.
You’ll hear the stories of:
📰 Jovita Idár
✊ Lulu Belle M...
115 - The Women Who Saved Texas History Before It Disappeared
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March is Women’s History Month—a time to recognize the achievements of women across history.
These 3 Texas women made bold choices, faced real challenges, and changed the world around them: Jane Long, Clara Driscoll and Adina De Zavala.
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114 - The Day Texas Became Its Own Country
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March 2 marks one of the most important days in Texas history. On that day in 1836, a group of delegates gathered at Washington-on-the-Brazos and signed the Texas Declaration of Independence, creating a brand-new country called the Republic of Texas.
In this episode of Texas History for Kids, we rewind the clock to explore the events that led to the revolution. From the arrival of settlers and rising tensions with Mexico to the first shot at ...
113 - Why Texas Built a Capitol Bigger Than the U.S.
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In this episode of Texas History for Kids, Michelle and Zoe uncover the mystery of the Texas State Capitol — how it was built, why it’s pink, and what actually happens inside those historic walls.
Sources:
Texas State Preservation Board – Texas State Capitol
Kids.Kiddle.co – Texas State Capitol
Texas Legislature Online
https://tspb.texas.gov/plan/tours/tours.html
Texas State Historical Association
Cover Image by Kim Broomha...
112 -The Women Who Reached Space When They Weren’t Supposed To
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February 11 is International Day of Women and Girls in Science. It’s a celebration around the world that recognizes women who work in STEM — science, technology, engineering, and math.
Today we're talking about two women who worked with NASA and were not necessarily astronauts.
References
chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/hughes-fulford_millie_0.pdf?emrc=61295b
https://www.ucsf.edu/news/2021/02/419791/millie-hughes-fulford-first-woman-scientist-space-dies-75
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mae...
111 - Susan B. Anthony: The Voice That Wasn't Supposed to Be
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Today we’re talking about one woman who stood up for her rights,refused to back down and made her voice heard, her name was Susan B Anthony. Before we get to how Susan B Anthony shocked the nation by voting, we need to understand who she really was.
Podcast Response and Slides, Listening Activity
References:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Susan_B._Anthony
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/history/article/susan-b-anthony
https://www.b...
110 -Who Was REALLY Allowed to Vote? (The Truth About the 15th Amendment)
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In this episode of Texas History for Kids, we explore the 15th Amendment and the long fight to protect voting rights in Texas. You’ll learn why Black History Month is celebrated in February, the role of historian Carter G. Woodson, and the voices that helped push the nation toward change.
Black History: Contributions to Texas Resource Bundle
https://www.history.com/articles/abraham-lincoln-frederick-douglass-relation
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Allen_(Texas_politician)<...
109 - State Symbol Spotlight: Dinosaur- Paluxysaurus jonesi
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Walk in the footsteps of Texas’s official state dinosaur! In this episode of Texas History for Kids, we head to Dinosaur Valley State Park to uncover the mystery of Paluxysaurus jonesi—how it was discovered, how Texas chose its state dinosaur, and what ancient footprints reveal about life during the Cretaceous Period. Packed with facts, adventure, and real Texas science, this episode is perfect for curious listeners in grades 4–7.
References:
https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smar...
108 - The Pirate Who Helped (and Betrayed) Texas
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In this episode of Texas History for Kids, we explore the mystery of Jean Lafitte, a pirate who ran smuggling and privateering operations across the Gulf of Mexico, negotiated with powerful governments, and even helped the United States win the Battle of New Orleans during the War of 1812.
But Lafitte insisted he wasn’t a pirate. He claimed to be a privateer, someone who believed he had permission to control trade and attack enemy ships. Was he te...
107 - State Symbol Spotlight: Does the Horned Lizard Have Magical Powers?
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Early settlers and ranchers believed the “horny toad” or horned lizard, had special powers, not because it was spooky, but because it did things no one could explain.
It looks prehistoric, survives extreme Texas heat, and has one of the strangest defense tricks in the animal kingdom. But how did the Texas horned lizard, often called the “horny toad,” become the official state reptile of Texas?
In this episode of Texas History for Kids, Michelle and Zoe uncover the science, folklore, and histo...
106 - Why Texans Eat Black-Eyed Peas for Luck
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Today, we’re exploring how black-eyed peas traveled across continents, survived hard times, and ended up as one of the most famous New Year’s traditions in Texas and the South.
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Snag your Texas Flag Reading Packet—perfect for grades 4–7!
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105 - The Yellow Rose of Texas: Song, Story, or Legend?
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Was The Yellow Rose of Texas song written about a real person… or is it a legend that bloomed later? In this episode, we follow the trail of a famous song, a mysterious woman named Emily, and the Battle of San Jacinto. You’ll learn where the song really came from, why Texans embraced it, and how folklore, music, and history sometimes twist together.
Podcast Listening Response Packet
Yellow Rose of Texas Song Lyrics
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104 - Siege of Bexar: Texas Revolution
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Join us as we uncover the bold events surrounding the Siege of Béxar and the moment that changed the course of the Texas Revolution.
References
https://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/entries/bexar-siege-of
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Starting Jingle Sound Effect by Shiden Beats Music from Pixabay- Jingle Slide Guitar
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103 - State Symbol Spotlight: Bluebonnet
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Why did Texas choose the little blue wildflower that pops up every spring as its official state flower? Join us as we uncover the “flower drama” of 1901, explore how bluebonnets turn Texas into oceans of color, and bust the myth about whether it’s illegal to pick them. From legends to science to Texas road trips, this episode reveals why the bluebonnet became a true Lone Star icon.
Bluebonnet Song Lyrics
The Legend of the Bluebonnet YouTube Read Aloud
Refer...
102 - State Symbol Spotlight: Mockingbird
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What can copy a car alarm, a barking dog, a squeaky gate, and maybe even Zoe? The Northern Mockingbird — Texas’ official state bird! In this episode, we explore why this talented (and slightly mischievous) bird was chosen to represent the Lone Star State.
Resources - My Entire store is 15% off on Dec 1 and 2, 2025!
References
https://www.tsl.texas.gov/ref/abouttx/symbols
https://tpwd.texas.gov/huntwild/wild/species/mockbird/
https://www.allaboutbirds.org/gu...
101- State Symbol Spotlight: Pecan Tree
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Discover how a tiny pecan became a huge Texas symbol. We explore Native American history, Governor James Hogg’s surprising final wish, and the rise of pecan pie as the State Pie of Texas.
Thanksgiving Read Aloud Freebie
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Episode: 100!! Texas Centennial - 1936
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Today marks our 100th episode of Texas History for Kids! 🎉 Join us as we uncover a shiny silver clue—a 1936 Texas Centennial Half Dollar—and follow its trail back through time.
Step into 1836, when Texians at Washington-on-the-Brazos declared independence from Mexico. March through the battles of the Texas Revolution, then fast-forward a century to 1936, when Texans celebrated their first hundred years with a world-fair-sized party at Fair Park in Dallas.
RESOURCES
Refere...
99 - Alebrijes - The Spirit Animals
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Discover the origins of Día de los Muertos through Aztec legend, the goddess Mictecacihuatl, and the colorful creations of Mexican artist, Pedro Linares. Learn how ancient spirit animals inspired modern Alebrijes and how this Mexican tradition celebrates life, art, and remembrance.
RESOURCES
References
https://mayancopal.com/blogs/news/alebrije-a-brief-history
https://makpalli.com.mx/en/blog/alebrijes-history-and-meaning/
https://mexicotravel.blog/what-are-alebrijes/
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98 - Scary Stories: Pushed by Ghosts — The Mystery of San Antonio’s Haunted Tracks
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We’re heading to the city’s South Side, near Shane Road. Locals call it the Haunted Ghost Tracks. It’s a place where legend says the spirits of children still linger… protecting strangers from danger.
RESOURCES
References
https://ghostcitytours.com/san-antonio/haunted-places/haunted-railroad-tracks/
https://www.legendsofamerica.com/tx-ghostlychildren/
https://rivercityghosts.com/ghost-tracks/
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Starting Jingle Sound Effect by Shiden Beats Music from Pixabay- Jingle Slide Guitar<...
97 - Scary Stories: Grave Secrets of Texas — The Cemeteries That Never Sleep
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From San Antonio’s mysterious Chinese Graveyard to the heartbreaking legend of Baby Head Cemetery and the chilling tale of Elize Alberti in Galveston’s Old City Cemetery, this episode explores Texas’s most haunted resting places.
Each grave holds a story — of forgotten workers, lost children, and love turned to despair.
Join Michelle and Zoe as they uncover the history, mystery, and legends behind Texas’s most haunted burial grounds.
RESOURCES<...
96 - Scary Stories: Haunting on Alamo Street
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During the Texas Revolution, Irish empresario, John McMullen, joined the General Council, serving as a translator and even as temporary president early in Texas 1836 after Governor Henry Smith’s impeachment.
After Texas won independence, McMullen moved to San Antonio, serving as an alderman from 1840 to 1844. He built a grand stone house on Alamo Street, nestled along what is now the San Antonio River.
Life seemed peaceful, until tragedy struck and he was murdered in his own house.
FREE Haunted Texa...
95 - Scary Stories: Haunted Insane Asylums
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I hope you’re ready for the next 4 episodes, they’re guaranteed to put a little scare in ya! This is the first episode of the Scary Stories Series- Texas History for Kids style and today we're talking about some of Texas' scariest and most haunted insane asylums.
RESOURCES
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94 - State Symbol Spotlight: Longhorn
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Today’s object is a massive Texas Longhorn skull. Its pale bone gleams under the lights, the horns stretching wide—a spectacular sight to behold. Today our artifact tells a story of an animal that faced importation, near extinction and a revival of a species, making it one of Texas’ official state symbols.
Resources
References
https://thc.texas.gov/state-historic-sites/official-state-texas-longhorn-herd/state-texas-longhorn-herd-history
https://www.tsl.texas.gov/ref/abouttx/symbols
ht...
93 - Women on the Chisholm Trail
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Women were told the Chisholm Trail was no place for them. Society’s rules declared a “proper lady” should remain at home—managing the household, raising children, and waiting for her husband’s return.
And wearing split skirts or breeches, and sleeping beneath the stars among men? These were considered scandalous. Dangerous and Unthinkable.
But some women didn’t listen. We'll share a few of their stories.
Resources
References
https://fwtx.com/culture/pe...
92 - Maracas, Pinatas, Tamales- Oh my!
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In today's episode, we celebrate the rich history of Hispanic Heritage Month by looking at 3 traditional artifacts of this culture.
Resources
Music By: Music by Francesco Biondi from Pixabay
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91 - Bonfire Shelter & Bison Mass Graves
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In the early years of time, Texas was home to millions of buffalo and our early ancestors had to adapt to ways of hunting such large animals. So… they chased a herd of bison to a steep cliff where they fell to their deaths. This cliff is named the Bonfire Shelter.
Resources
References
Music/Sounds by Pixabay
Starting Jingle Sound Effect by Shiden Beats Music from Pixabay- Jingle Slide Guitar<...
90 - Newly Discovered Alamo Artifacts
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Recently, archaeologists uncovered some surprising finds beneath the Alamo’s courtyards.
https://www.thealamo.org/
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🎧😊Podcast Listening Response Activities
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Email michelle@txhistory4kids.com
Visit the Website<...
89 - Votes for Texas Women: The Fight for Suffrage
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Texas in the early 1900s was full of bustling cities, dusty rural towns, and one very big problem: half the population couldn’t vote. That half was women.
Resources
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🎧😊Podcast Listening Response Activities
🎉 Y’all, it’s freebie time!
Snag your Texas Flag Reading Packet—perfect for grades 4–7!
Plus, join the email list for more Texas-sized learning fun each week.
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88 - Grand Saline: Salty Texas Town
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Did you know there's a town in Texas built on top of a mountain of salt? Welcome to Grand Saline, a small town with a big secret underneath the ground—a giant salt dome that’s deeper than Mount Everest is tall!
RESOURCE
References
https://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/entries/grand-saline-tx
https://www.visitcantontx.com/attractions/the-salt-palace
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Starting Jingle Soun...
87 - Compromise of 1850
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In the mid-1800s, the United States was growing fast. After winning the Mexican-American War in 1848, the U.S. gained a huge amount of land—territories that would later become California, Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, Nevada, and parts of Colorado and Wyoming. But this victory brought a big problem: Would slavery be allowed in the new territories?
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