Houston Historical Tours

About Houston Historical Tours

Introduction to Houston Historical Tours

Houston Historical Tours is a unique tour service that offers an in-depth exploration of the city’s rich and often untold history. The tours are led by Keith Rosen, a passionate research historian and expert in Houston’s history, who shares his knowledge of the city’s past that many people have never heard or read about.

Keith Rosen: Owner and Tour Director

Keith Rosen is the owner and primary tour director of Houston Historical Tours. His passion for the history of Houston is evident in the tours he leads, which highlight the lesser-known stories of the city.

Experience and Background:

Keith has been leading tours of Houston since 1985, offering a unique and personal perspective on the city’s past. His extensive background in education and history has equipped him with the knowledge and passion to engage audiences with fascinating historical facts and narratives.

Teaching Career:

Keith taught history for more than three decades from 1981 to 2015. He passed Texas state certification tests in five areas and taught at various institutions across Texas and in Florida, including Richland College, Tarrant County Junior College, Alvin Community College, Texas Southern University, and Houston Community College, among others.

Recognition as an Educator:

During his career, Keith was nominated or selected as Teacher of the Year four times, showcasing his dedication and excellence in education. He retired from teaching in 2015, now enjoying a monthly pension.

Historical Expertise and Achievements

Keith’s love for history extends beyond the classroom and into the community. Over the years, he has become a key figure in Houston’s historical preservation efforts.

Master Tour Guide:

In 2003, Keith was selected as the Master Tour Guide for the City of Houston’s multicultural tours, a position that showcased his expertise in the diverse history of the city.

Harris County Historical Commission:

From 2007 to 2013, Keith served on the Harris County Historical Commission, contributing to efforts to preserve and promote the history of the county and city.

Historical Marker Co-Author:

One of Keith’s significant achievements was co-authoring a historical marker for one of the oldest African American congregations in Houston, a testament to his dedication to documenting and sharing the city’s history.

Publications and Features:

Keith’s contributions to Houston’s historical narrative have earned him profiles in over 30 books, magazines, journals, blogs, and newspapers, further solidifying his reputation as an expert in the field.

Professional Associations

Keith is an active member of several professional organizations that support and promote historical preservation and tour guiding.

Professional Tour Guides Association of Houston:

Keith is a member of the PTGAH, an organization that promotes professionalism in the tour guide industry in Houston.

Certified Tour Ambassador:

Keith was the first Houston tour guide to become a Certified Tour Ambassador (CTA), a prestigious designation that recognizes expertise in guiding and sharing the history of the area.

Public Speaking and Community Engagement

Keith’s expertise extends beyond tours, as he has been invited to speak at various organizations and community events. His talks highlight Houston’s rich historical landscape and its multicultural influences, making history accessible and engaging for audiences.

Conclusion

Keith Rosen’s passion for Houston’s history and his dedication to sharing it with others have made Houston Historical Tours a standout experience for anyone interested in learning more about the city’s unique past. Whether through his expert-led tours, educational contributions, or public speaking, Keith continues to be a key figure in preserving and promoting Houston’s historical legacy.