Van Zandt County will soon be 175 years old. The Van Zandt County Genealogical Society, in partnership with other local history groups, will hold a birthday party for the county on Saturday, March 25, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., at the Blackwell House Museum and the main County Library (next door) 317 First Monday Lane, in Canton. The celebration is open to the public and free. Tours of the museum will be provided, and there will be opportunities to learn about some of the early settlers of the county. Refreshments will be served.

The Texas State Legislature passed a law creating Van Zandt County on March 20, 1848. The new county was named after Isaac Van Zandt (1813-1847), a country store owner who became a legislator and diplomat for the Texas Republic; his greatest achievement was to help ensure that Texas joined the United States. Van Zandt died of yellow fever in 1847 while campaigning to be Governor. Although Van Zandt never lived in his namesake place, the creation of the county was a testament to the gratitude of legislators for his service to Texas during his short life.

The March 25 birthday celebration will honor the county and the pioneers who made East Texas succeed. A highlight will be the celebration of the life of Elvira Engledow, an early settler of Van Zandt County and a Citizen of the Republic of Texas. Many organizations, such as the Daughters of the Republic of Texas and the Van Zandt County Historical Commission, will join with the Genealogical Society in this event. The hosts will be wearing their 1800s pioneer clothes, and the public is encouraged to do so. Come join the fun, learn some history, have some birthday cake! Remember, the party will be happening at both the Blackwell House and next door at the main county library in Canton, Texas.