Yellow Rose of Texas Award facts for kids
The Yellow Rose of Texas is a special award given by the Governor of Texas to women in Texas. It's like an honorary title that recognizes women who have done amazing things for their communities. It's one of the highest honors a Texas woman can receive!
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The Story Behind the Award
How the Award Started
This important award was created by Governor Allan Shivers in 1957. He wanted a way to celebrate the incredible contributions of women across Texas.
Why "Yellow Rose of Texas"?
The name "Yellow Rose of Texas" was chosen to honor a legendary woman named Emily Morgan. She was a key figure in the Battle of San Jacinto, which was a very important battle for Texas independence. The legend says this battle, which helped Texas become free, lasted only 18 minutes!
The name also connects to the famous "The Yellow Rose of Texas" song, which became very popular in 1955. That same year, a woman named Maymerle Shirley was even named "Miss Yellow Rose of Texas" during a special event.
Who Can Receive This Award?
The Yellow Rose of Texas award is given to women who show outstanding community service. This can include many things, like:
- Volunteering their time to help others.
- Giving to charities.
- Working to preserve Texas history.
- Helping to make Texas better for the future.
Amazing Women Who Received the Award
Many inspiring women have received the Yellow Rose of Texas award from different governors. Here are some examples of the types of amazing things they did:
- Dolly B. Patterson (1972): She was honored for her work helping women get the right to vote and for her efforts in the Democratic Party. She even raised money to buy a bus for a school for children with disabilities!
- Christia Adair (1977): She was recognized for her brave work in civil rights, especially with the NAACP in Houston. She was later inducted into the Texas Women's Hall of Fame.
- Karen Ruth Thompson (1980): She wrote seven history books and helped save many cemeteries. She also started an organization called Save Texas Cemeteries.
- Mary Fillingim (1991): She spent much of her life helping people with mental disabilities.
- Teresa Champion: She is a famous flamenco dancer from San Antonio.
- Betty Vogel (2002): She was honored for over 50 years of selfless volunteering in her community, supporting law enforcement, emergency services, and youth programs.
- Molly Ward (2004): She survived the New London School Explosion and later created a museum about it. She also served as mayor of her town.
- Elizabeth Laird (2014): Known as "Betty the Hug Lady," she was recognized for giving comforting hugs to soldiers at Fort Hood.
- Corine Snow (2016): She received the award at 111 years old, making her reportedly the oldest living person in Texas at the time! She was honored for her long life and contributions.
- Evelyn Reininger (2017): She was a longtime volunteer who advocated for more women in leadership roles. She was the first female engine manager at Bergstrom Air Force Base.
- Nelly Mulleneaux (2018): Known as "Arrowhead's Mom" at Fort Hood, she helped soldiers and their families stay strong during tough times.
- Carol Ann Phillips Snyder (2018): She was honored for nearly 20 years of preserving history and educating people in Smithville and Bastrop County.
- Erica Alwine Molina (2019): She is the Emergency Management Coordinator for Simonton, Texas, and volunteers for the US Navy SEAL Danny Dietz Memorial Classic.
- Mary Melissa Halbert Goodrich (2020): She was honored for preserving Texas history through her work with various historical organizations.
- Cinzi Lavin (2022): She was recognized for her amazing charitable work, volunteering, and artistic achievements that help build a better future.
These are just a few examples of the many incredible women who have been recognized with the Yellow Rose of Texas award for their dedication and service.
