Travis County History Day

10/01/2025

We hope you'll join us! https://www.facebook.com/events/1141411791195629

11/20/2024

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the History Day exhibit opening yesterday!

Missed the event? Be sure to check out our virtual exhibit.

Texas has more historic courthouses than any other state. Historically, county courthouses have served as the heart of the community and a hub of social activity. They are a symbol of civic pride, power, and the seat of local government. The courts they house play an essential role in maintaining th...

11/12/2024

Learn more about these individuals at History Day next week!

11/04/2024

Join us on November 19!

10/29/2024

Judge Bob Perkins served as an elected Travis County judge for 36 years, at every trial court level (Justice of the Peace, County Court at Law and District Court). Only one judge, Mace B. Thurman, Jr., served longer. Judge Perkins was the first bilingual, bicultural Judge elected in Travis County, and he last ran opposed in local races in 1980.

A graduate of the University of Texas at Austin and the University of Texas School of Law, Perkins was elected Justice of the Peace of Precinct 4 in Travis County in 1974. In 1980, he was appointed and elected Judge of County Court at Law No. 2. In 1982, he became a District Judge of the 331st District Court, where he served through 2010.

As Judge, Perkins heard many high-profile cases and was elected by his colleagues as the first Presiding Criminal Judge of Travis County. As such, he presided over the 13 criminal courts of the county. Judge Perkins retired in 2011, but today still serves as a Senior District Judge, where he fills in for judges who are temporarily absent.

09/17/2024

Save the date for our 17th annual History Day event!

Save the date!

11/13/2023

Missed History Day? View our virtual exhibit here:

Travis County History Day is an annual event that celebrates the rich history of Travis County. For the 16th annual History Day event, we explored the history of the offices of the Travis County Clerk and District Clerk.

10/25/2023

Hear about what the District and County Clerks do from the clerks themselves.

Full oral history videos can be viewed here: https://traviscountyarchives.starter1ua.preservica.com/index.php?name=SO_c51f792f-595e-418a-aeed-a9899c451a6a.