On Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, the Museum of South Texas History is proud to host author and King Ranch Archivist Lisa A. Neely as she presents her newest work, King Ranch & Kingsville: A Match Made in South Texas, starting at 2 p.m. Neely’s work is an intriguing compilation of short stories, neatly divided into sections that bring to life the vast history of the King Ranch and the generations of people who made it their home. Mrs. Neely will be introduced by Mrs. Helen Kleberg Groves, great-granddaughter of ranch founder, Captain Richard King, and the inspiration behind Mrs. Neely’s book.

Museum Executive Director, Shan Rankin, said, “For every South Texan who has grown up with the folklore of the King Ranch, and for every visitor to the region discovering its mystique, King Ranch & Kingsville provides an opportunity to sample many aspects of the ranch and its role in South Texas in a very personal and human manner. It is a striking series of easy-to-read short stories, and the reader cannot help but come away with awe and respect for the influence that the Presbyterian missionary life of Richard King’s wife, Henrietta Chamberlain, and the strong work ethic of the King and Kleberg families, has had on this family through multiple generations. The King Ranch and the Kleberg descendants are known for their intelligence and many good works throughout the State of Texas. From hospitals to scientific research to educational institutions to museums such as the Museum of South Texas History, descendants of this family have been hard at work building better communities for generations. The stories of their partnership with, and commitment to, the generations of Kineños who built King Ranch alongside Captain King and his descendants are inspiring and demonstrate the bond of respect and admiration built side-by-side, as the King Ranch family, from one generation to the next.”

It is appropriate that MOSTHistory’s first Sunday Speaker for the New Year should be Lisa A. Neely. Her work and dedication to preserving the history of the King Ranch coincides with the museum’s own mission of preserving and presenting the borderland heritage of South Texas and Northeastern Mexico, and her presentation is sure to delight those in attendance. A small reception with light refreshments will follow the program in the museum’s Grand Lobby.

Copies of the book may be reserved in advance by calling 956/383-6911. The price is $29.95 plus tax. Friends of the Museum receive a 10% discount on the purchase.

The Sunday Speaker Series is included in the fee for regular museum admission. FRIENDS of the Museum are admitted free as a benefit of FRIENDships. For information on becoming a FRIEND of the Museum, call 956.383.6911 or click here. The Museum of South Texas History is located at 200 North Closner Boulevard on the Hidalgo County Courthouse square in downtown Edinburg.

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