During a Feb. 28 press conference, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner announced the designation of three historic homes from The Heritage Society at Sam Houston Park to the Slave Route Project run by the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization.

The three homes are Reverend Jack Yates' House, Fourth Ward Cottage and Kellum-Noble House.

According to Heritage Society President Minnette Boesel, the buildings are from the 19th century. She said they represent the lifestyle of those who helped build the history of Houston.

UNESCO’s Slave Route Project launched in 1994 to promote a better understanding of slavery, Turner said, adding it is important to preserve and learn from history so the past will not be forgotten or repeated.

“Our goal in preserving homes and having these designated in the Slave Route Project is to educate residents and visitors as well as create cultural tourism,” Turner said.

Located at 1100 Bagby St., The Heritage Society was founded as a nonprofit in 1954. According to its website, the organization’s mission statement is “to tell the stories of the diverse history of Houston and Texas through collections, exhibits, the arts, educational programs, film, video and other content.”

The park has a total of 10 historic buildings, all of which have been moved from various locations and restored to “reflect their respective eras,” according to the organization’s website.

"This is our history; this is Houston's history, and it's so important that we save our history here in Heritage [Society’s] park,” District 1 Council Member Robert Gallegos said.

The park hosts Black History Tours Wednesdays through Saturdays as well as on Sundays with advance reservations.