Texas Wendish Heritage Scholarship Program
The scholarship program was established to encourage students of Wendish descent to learn more about and develop an appreciation for their Wendish heritage. Applicants must be enrolled in an accredited college, university or trade school for 2018-19. In addition, applicants and their parents must also be members of the Texas Wendish Heritage Society. If you are considering applying and are not currently a TWHS member, you can easily join by completing a membership card and submitting dues. You may also join online. Membership dues paid prior to September 1 are applied to current calendar year, with renewals due the following January.
Applications are now available. Copies can be picked up at the museum or downloaded below.
The essay topic is: Write about a person of Wendish ancestry that helped shape Wendish culture and history in Texas. This person may have resided in the Serbin/Giddings/Lee County area or could have resided in one of the other Wendish settlements throughout Texas. Describe in detail the aspects of the person’s life, actions, or circumstances which influenced or brought to light the Wendish presence in his or her surroundings. Describe in detail how this person impacted Wendish history, heritage and culture for you, your family, friends, and other Wends. Include complete references and the sources of your research and information.
Deadline for submitting completed applications will be 5:00 p.m. on Friday, July 20, 2018. The application must be filled out in its entirety and include the following: completed Pedigree Chart, essay of up to 1,000 words on the subject described on the application form, and proof of enrollment. Recipients will be notified by mail and will be introduced during Wendish Fest on Sunday, September 23. For more information, contact the museum.
The scholarship program is funded through our annual to-go meal fundraiser, from proceeds of the coffee cake auction at Wendish Fest, and through donations from our members. As families gather for reunions, they might discuss these scholarships and how to honor their ancestors with donations to this fund. Thank you all for supporting the growth of this program that, in turn, supports our younger Wendish generation.
Texas Wendish Heritage Society Scholarship Application (2018-2019) (click to download form)