How We Got Here

Since 1921, the Panhandle-Plains Historical Society (PPHS) has worked to protect and share the history, culture and heritage of the Texas Panhandle through its stewardship of the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum (PPHM) collection.

While West Texas A&M University (WTAMU) owns and maintains the PPHM facility, PPHS owns and cares for the more than 2 million priceless artifacts that make up the museum’s collection.

The timeline below outlines key events leading to the closure and the steps being taken to preserve public access to the collection.

PPHS remains committed to caring for and protecting the more than 2 million artifacts entrusted to it – and to ensuring these stories continue to be shared, even while the doors are closed.

Our efforts include:

• Launching a temporary website to provide updates, answer community questions and support fundraising for the collection’s future.

• Exploring digital and traveling exhibits to keep the collection accessible to visitors, schools, history enthusiasts and countless others.

• Engaging museum supporters and the public through community conversations focused on long-term solutions and continued access.

• Exploring ways to serve educators and students in the region through alternative formats and creative learning tools.