The Foundations of Texan Philanthropy

The Lone Star State has produced not only revolutionary heroes and cowboy legends, but also larger-than-life promoters of philanthropic activity. The Foundations of Texan Philanthropy, the first systematic study of the origins of foundation philanthropy in early twentieth-century Texas, chronicles the fortunes, motivations, and benefactions of affluent Texans who pioneered organized giving for the public good. In the three decades following the creation of the George W. Brackenridge Foundation in 1920, donors established approximately 180 private, philanthropic institutions. These charitable-minded organizations funded medical research, established educational scholarships, and supported community projects. In addition to the Brackenridge Foundation, this book features George B. Dealey and the Dallas Foundation, Jesse Jones and the Houston Endowment, Miss Ima and the Hogg Foundation for Mental Health, the Amon G. Carter Foundation, and the Conference of Southwest Foundations, which united the many foundations in the region. The Foundations of Texan Philanthropy balances personal and family stories with the missions and financial operations of the foundations they established. The