After serving the community barbecue for more than 50 years, Central Texas Style BBQ in Pearland was recognized by the Texas Historical Commission with a historic business award.

Ruth LeClere co-owns the business with her son, Devon Nixon. She said when she received the call back in late 2023, it was “exciting.”

“We’re very proud that we’ve been here that long,” she said. “It’s just a family business. I’ve got five grandkids working here now.”

The award, titled the Texas Treasure Business Awards, was created in 2005 to pay tribute to the state’s well-established businesses, according to the Texas Historical Commission’s website. Since its creation, more than 500 businesses across Texas have received it.

Central Texas Style BBQ first opened in 1969, according to its website. Despite the longevity, LeClere said she has no plans of slowing down, and with generations of her family involved in the business, there’s no end in sight.


“We wouldn’t know what to do. I’ve been here every day for the past 54 years,” LeClere said.