By David Taylor / Managing editor
CROSBY — The Old Three Hundred Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution hosted its third annual Awards Program on April 18 at the American Legion Hall in Crosby, recognizing residents, educators, students, and local organizations for contributions to historic preservation, education, patriotism, and service.
“This event is about celebrating the people who quietly do the work that strengthens our community,” said Laura Richard, regent of the chapter during the program, noting that the annual ceremony is designed to spotlight efforts that preserve local history while investing in the next generation.
In addition to the awards presentations, the evening included a silent auction supporting chapter initiatives and a Military Heroes Table featuring photographs of local veterans. Organizers described the display as a tribute meant to reflect the organization’s commitment to honoring military service and the values of civic responsibility.
A key moment of the program was the presentation of the Historic Preservation Medal of Excellence, awarded to Buffy and Deuce Robinson for restoring the Fleming farmhouse, a Crosby landmark originally built in the 1920s. The Robinsons were recognized for preserving the home’s original character while helping protect a tangible piece of the community’s early history.
The medal was also presented to Randy Kubin, honored for research and public education efforts through the Crosby Historical Society. Kubin’s work documenting Czech families in the region was praised as an important step in ensuring cultural histories are not lost.
The chapter also presented a Media and Entertainment Award to Tracey Hilborn for an interactive gardening book that promotes conservation and learning.
“It’s a creative way to connect education with environmental stewardship,” Richard said in announcing the award.
Several partners received Community Service Awards, including Friendly Ford of Crosby, Crosby ISD, Action Dental, and Sheffield Liquidation, recognized for a holiday toy drive that provided gifts for local families. Martin Maier, commander of David H. McNerney Post 658, also received a community service honor for work supporting veterans and local efforts.
Student recognition remained a major focus throughout the ceremony. The American History Essay Contest honored participants from local schools, with Rylan Vickers named the high school winner. Nathanael Nefali Guevara earned the chapter title and placed third at the state level, receiving certificates and a medal, along with monetary awards presented to student honorees.
Additional student honors included the DAR Good Citizen Award to Saniya D. Carrington, recognized for leadership and character and accompanied by a scholarship. The chapter also awarded Youth Leadership Medals to JROTC students in grades 7 through 12, with Zoe Courtney receiving the JROTC Bronze Medal for leadership and service.
Educators were also highlighted, including Carrie Henderson, named the chapter’s first Literacy Champion for leading reading initiatives across Crosby ISD. Dr. Paula Patterson, superintendent of Crosby ISD, received the Women in American History Award for leadership and contributions to public education. Organizers said Patterson’s story will remain published on the DAR Women in American History website.
The chapter thanked event partners and sponsors, including the David H. McNerney American Legion for hosting, Kipper Koffee for refreshments, and Crosby High School JROTC cadets who served as the Color Guard.
For more information about the Old Three Hundred Chapter and its programs, contact old300chapterregistrar@gmail.com.
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