Historical markers have been a part of the Texas landscape since 1936, when the Texas Centennial Commission placed more than 900 markers and monuments around the state to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Texas Revolution and the establishment of the Republic of Texas. The current Official Texas Historical Marker program dates to 1962, and it has been a popular means for interpreting local and state history and encouraging heritage tourism for almost four decades. Probably the most visible program of the Texas Historical Commission, historical markers commemorate diverse topics - from the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations and events that changed the course of local and state history, to individuals who have made lasting contributions to our state, community organizations and businesses, military sites, and many more. Age, significance and architectural requirements govern the eligibility of topics and sites when applying for either a subject marker or a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark marker.