The mission of the Austin County Historical Commission is to protect and preserve the county’s historic and prehistoric resources for the use, education, enjoyment and economic benefit of present and future generations. County historical commissions are authorized by the Texas Legislature for the purpose of "initiating and conducting programs for the preservation of the historical heritage of the county." Appointed by the Commissioners’ Court for 2-year terms, historical commissioners operate under their own by-laws but in close association with the Texas Historical Commission in Austin. The Austin County Historical Commission meets regularly six times a year, but the work of its members is continuous. Meetings are open to the public, and prospective members are encouraged to attend a few meetings. The Commission meets at 7:00 p.m. on odd numbered months.

One of the latest projects of the group was to replace and erect new school markers in Austin County. Their most recent publication was Education in Austin County the Era Prior to 1885. A former project The Cemeteries of Austin County is in the process of being updated and placed on line. This can be found in The TXGenWeb Project for Austin County under Cemetery Listing. Other publications have been Official Texas Historical Markers of Austin County and Dance Halls of Austin County. Currently work is being done to republish a history of Austin County.

Committees

Historic Appreciation Committee – Strives to create countywide awareness and appreciation of historic preservation and its benefits and uses. 
Publicity Committee –Responsible for making sure CHC activities are well publicized, so citizens of the county are aware of the commission and its responsibilities to the field of preservation.

Research and Markers Committee -  Responsible for all matters related to Official Texas Historical Markers.

Endangered Properties Committee -  Keeps a watchful eye out for properties in the county that are threatened by neglect, deterioration, lack of maintenance, insufficient funds, vandalism, inappropriate development or other adverse effects.

Oral History Committee – Oversees endeavors in oral history projects.

Archives Committee – Oversees the management and preservation of documents pertaining to the CHC.

Archeology Committee –Undertakes activities that promote the preservation of archeological resources.
Museum Committee – Serves as the liaison between the CC and the county historical museum, if such exists. This committee should also stay abreast of activities in all museums throughout the county.

Cemetery Committee – Involved in cemetery surveys, cemetery clean-up days (in conjunction with local cemetery associations) and other similar activities. It may also pursue Historic Texas Cemetery designation for the cemeteries in the county. 

Heritage Tourism Committee – Formulates strategy and develops the tools needed to spread the word about the county’s historic sites and attractions.

Certified Local Government – (Not active locally at this time)