HERITAGE ASSOCIATION OF SAN MARCOS
Each year the Heritage Association of San Marcos recognizes one of its members who recently passed away, distinguished by their contributions to the Heritage Association and to the enhancement of life in the community. The Riverwalk Park Committee initiated the award in June 2000, and the first recipient was Dr. Emmie Craddock whose service included teaching history at Southwest Texas State University, serving as the first female mayor of the city of San Marcos, and president of the Heritage Association from 1979 to 1981.
This year the Veramendi Plaza Award of Honor will go to Polly Wright. Polly was born to parents J. Searcy and Cleo Ward Smith. She was a “BISM” – Born in San Marcos – an increasingly rare group. Her contributions to the San Marcos community included serving on the Historic Preservation Commission and as a board member of the Heritage Association of San Marcos. For HASM, she served as both treasurer and secretary. She was also part of numerous committees including serving as a pillar of the Heritage Guild, which runs activities in the Charles S. Cock House Museum. In addition, she chaired the 2007 Christmas Home Tour and opened her home as docent.
Along with the original Bicentennial Belles, Polly served as a hostess at the monthly Cock House Luncheon, with proceeds supporting various Heritage Association community efforts.
Other organizations she belonged to and served were the Daughters of the American Revolution, Daughters of the Republic of Texas, Hallmark Collectors’ Club, Beta Sigma Phi and a Dame in The National Society of Magna Charta.
The Riverwalk Park Committee made a presentation to family members at its annual meeting on Oct. 21.
