Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham unveiled the state’s 2025 Christmas ornament, featuring a compass design inspired by the defenders of the Alamo.
The sale of the limited-edition ornament and historic maps will benefit the General Land Office’s conservation efforts. The initiative offers Texans the opportunity to support state history preservation while discovering unique holiday gifts from the GLO’s extensive archival collection.
“As a ninth-generation Texan, when the holiday season approaches, I am reminded of the sacrifices made by my ancestors and the duty I share as Land Commissioner to preserve our state’s rich history,” said Buckingham.
“When I look at this ornament, I am reminded that the defenders of the Alamo would have been guided by a compass like this one on the path to defend their fledgling nation, much like the Three Wise Men were guided by the North Star to see the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”
The ornament’s Yellow Rose Compass design comes from Buckingham’s Alamo Defenders Heritage Map of Texas. The map shows approximately 245 land grants issued to heirs of men who died at the Alamo.
Proceeds from ornament sales support the Save Texas History program, established in 2004. The program preserves historic maps and documents in the GLO Archives.
“This year, we can preserve Texas history and support conservation efforts by purchasing the GLO’s 2025 Christmas Ornament,” Buckingham added. “Texans can also give the gift of Texas history by purchasing any one of our 45,000 maps, sketches, and drawings from our treasured archival collection.”
The heritage map commemorates the origins of the Alamo defenders and honors their sacrifices for Texas independence. Its artwork draws inspiration from architecture and historic frescos in the Alamo Sacristy.
Texans can browse the GLO’s map database at HistoricTexasMaps.com. Orders must be placed by December 19 for Christmas delivery.