On Thursday, November 18, 2021, the Sam Rayburn House State Historic Site and the Dolph Briscoe Center for American History’s Sam Rayburn Museum in Bonham brought together a panel of Sam Rayburn experts to discuss the impact Sam Rayburn’s death had on his community, his district, and the nation as a whole.

Part of our ongoing series on the life and career of one of the most influential Americans of the 20th Century, this webinar featured Dr. Anthony Champagne, professor of political science at the University of Texas, Dallas; Dr. James Riddlesperger, professor of political science at Texas Christian University, and Emily Porter, recently retired Director of Tourism for the City of Bonham.

Sam Rayburn’s death on November 16, 1961, marked the passing of a true political icon and a man who fought for his people. Sixty years may have passed since his death, but the impact he made can still be felt today. We encourage you to listen in to the conversation exploring how Rayburn’s influence can still be felt in the national political scene as well as in his hometown of Bonham, Texas.