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 result is a detailed look at 
some of the leaders of Texas history and the ways in which their 
largesse has continued to influence the history of the Lone Star 
State.

_________________________________________________________

MARY L. KELLEY, a Fulbright Scholar and assistant professor of 
history at Lamar University, lives in Beaumont, Texas. This is 
her first book.


Number Ninety-eight: Centennial Series of the Association of 
Former Students, Texas A&M University


What people are saying about this book


"Kelley has provided a much-needed examination of the historical
origins of private Texas foundations and is therefore invaluable for 
any student of Texas history."—The Journal of American History,
September 2005 

". . . a brilliant job of producing a volume that is a keeper for
history lovers as well as the philanthropic community."—John W.
Crain, Vice President, Summerlee Foundation