Caddo Nation of Oklahoma and Texas Historical Commission Sign Historic Agreement to Protect Ancestral Sites
- aorcutt8
- Sep 30
- 3 min read
In a landmark step toward preserving Indigenous heritage, the Caddo Nation of Oklahoma and the Texas Historical Commission (THC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to guide cultural resource planning and management at the Caddo Mounds State Historic Site and other Caddo sites across Texas.
The agreement formally recognizes the Caddo Nation's deep historical and cultural ties to Texas and ensures the Nation has a direct role in decision-making regarding the protection of ancestral lands, sacred sites, cultural resources, and ceremonial items.
Two copies of the MOU were signed during the ceremony—one for the Caddo Nation signed by Chairman Bobby Gonzalez, and the other for the agency signed by John L. Nau, III, Chairman of the Texas Historical Commission.
"The MOU is a vital step in honoring and protecting the heritage of the Caddo people," said Caddo Nation Chairman Bobby Gonzalez. "These lands and resources are a living connection to our ancestors, and this partnership ensures they are preserved with the respect and care they deserve." Chairman Gonzalez emphasized the importance of transparency in this new partnership: "When we have these types of agreements, then they're no longer silent agreements, everyone knows there's a process."
The partnership acknowledges both state and federal responsibilities, including compliance with the Texas Antiquities Code and the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). The Caddo Nation's cultural expertise will guide how resources are treated, safeguarded, and interpreted for the public.
"I think this agreement is the start of a new relationship with the THC as we build a stronger, deeper understanding of the Caddo Nation and the culture that is rooted in Texas and that we really need to celebrate," said Joseph Bell, Executive Director of the Texas Historical Commission and State Historic Preservation Officer of Texas.
Brad Jones, State Archeologist, Deputy SHPO, and Archeology Division Director, reflected on the significance of the moment: "I find this to be an incredibly exciting day. As an archeologist, my journey took a long time to understand and appreciate the role of tribal nations in telling their stories. Seeing this come to fruition is an unbelievable outcome. I think this is a really great path forward for the Caddo Nation and THC and is a good model for other tribes."
In addition to signing the MOU, Caddo Nation Chairman Bobby Gonzalez shared a special moment with the THC by unveiling recently purchased original prints by renowned Caddo artist T.C. Cannon. Chairman Gonzalez provided backstory on Cannon's life and artistic legacy, highlighting his role as one of the most influential Native American artists of the 20th century. Cannon's work blends traditional Caddo themes with bold contemporary expression, reflecting both cultural resilience and innovation. His art continues to serve as a source of pride and identity for the Caddo people.
Caddo Mounds, a site of immense cultural and spiritual importance to the Caddo people, stands as a monument to their ingenuity and enduring presence in Texas. By formalizing this collaboration, both the Caddo Nation and THC are ensuring that future generations will learn not only about the past but from the voices of those most connected to it.
The Memorandum of Understanding represents a milestone in the ongoing relationship between the Caddo Nation and the State of Texas. It builds a foundation for meaningful collaboration, cultural preservation, and educational opportunities while reinforcing the Caddo people's central role in telling their own story.
The Caddo Nation of Oklahoma is a federally recognized tribe whose ancestors built thriving communities across present-day Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, and Oklahoma. The Nation continues to preserve and promote its cultural heritage, language, and traditions for future generations.
The Texas Historical Commission is the state agency for historic preservation. Its mission is to protect and preserve the state's historic and prehistoric resources for the education, enjoyment, and economic benefit of present and future generations.
