Creation of the Foundation’s Seal

Seals and logos have been used throughout history to embody the identity and inherent purpose of governments, families, business and social organizations, and other entities. The Linden Heritage Foundation Seal, prominently features one of Linden’s lighted historic streetlamps, grew out of discussions between Jim Jacob, Anna Barber, and Sue Lazara. The group wanted an image uniquely and tangibly associated with historic Linden and exemplifying the goals and activities of the foundation itself. But where do you find such an image?

As principal initial projects, the Linden Heritage Foundation worked to preserve and re-purpose the town’s 1934 Water Tower and 1939 Firehouse. Consistent with the organizational charter, the Foundation also tackled a range of related town enhancement challenges such as research for landmark designations, grant writing for resource conservation, heritage education to the local population, and technical assistance to owners of other historic properties who want be good stewards of their own special buildings.

In the search for a Seal with the desired symbolic breadth, a number of graphic options were considered. Texas’ five-pointed star? A classical wreath or garland? A revered native animal or plant of the area? Something unique in the town’s-built environment that might offer a fitting graphic element? While this open search was in progress, Neil Abeles’ beautiful night photograph came to mind.

Neil’s photo features a lighted 1934 streetlamp on the southeast corner of the Cass County Courthouse lawn.