Historical Marker

The Houston Light Guard

Marker installed: 1982

Organized as a Texas Militia unit on April 21, 1873, the Houston Light Guard

originally participated in parades, ceremonies, and competitive drills, and

served as guard of honor for visiting dignitaries. The first commander was

Capt. Edwin Fairfax Gray (1829-1884), then the City Engineer of Houston. During

the 1880s The Guard, dressed in uniforms of red coats and red-plumed helmets,

became known as a leader in drill competitions throughout the United States.

Prize money funded their first armory in 1891.

In 1898 the Guard was activated for service with United States troops in the

Spanish-American War. After participating in the Punitive Expedition against

Mexico, 1916-1917, the unit joined U. S. forces fighting in Europe during World

War I.

The Guard built a new armory at this site in 1925 and deeded it to the State of

Texas in 1939. The next year the unit was again activated and during World War

II saw action in seven campaigns in Africa and Europe. As part of the 36th

Infantry Division, Guard members were among the first American troops in Europe

during the war. Now part of the National Guard, the Houston Light Guard

represents a proud heritage of distinguished military service. (1982).