This month, Four States Living Magazine spoke with Ana Willis, the new executive director for the Texarkana Museums System, to find out the latest news and future projects from TMS.

You are relatively new to the role of executive director for the Texarkana Museums System. Can you tell us a little about your background and what led you to this position?

I have a degree in marketing from Texas State University, and I moved to Texarkana in 2017 from Houston. I initially moved here to be with my husband [with whom I have two daughters], but it didn’t take long for me to connect with this community.

Since living here, I have held a few roles that have been incredibly meaningful, especially my work in outreach and development with CASA and the Children’s Advocacy Center. I am so proud of the work I was able to be a part of there, and more importantly, the impact those organizations continue to have on children and families in our community.

When I was approached with this opportunity, it was obvious the potential this organization has to engage and further the Texarkana community.

What drew you to the Texarkana Museums System?

I saw an opportunity to make the museum more accessible, more engaging, and a place where people of all ages feel welcome.

Since stepping into the role, what have your first impressions been of the museums and the community they serve?

Our museums really are two unique experiences, and each tells an important part of our story. The Ace of Clubs and the Museum of Regional History already have such strong foundations and stories to tell, but there is so much room to expand how people experience them. The community has been so supportive. People are excited to see the museums grow and evolve, and they want to be a part of that. It makes me so optimistic about what we can build here.

How would you describe the current state of the organization today?

Right now, I would describe the organization as being in a period of growth and momentum. We have a strong foundation, dedicated supporters, and a clear sense of purpose. There is a lot of energy around becoming more visible, more accessible, and more engaging for the community. It is a season of building. We are honoring what is already here while also setting the stage for what is next.

What have been your early priorities since becoming director?

I have spent time building relationships within the community, whether it is drawing people back into the museums system or listening to current supporters, board members, and the community to better understand what people want from their museums. A big part of that has been focusing on programming and events that bring new energy into the spaces. We have hosted community events, partnered with local organizations, and created opportunities for people to engage with the museums. The goal is to make these places feel more active and inviting, [as well as to increase] visibility and get more people through the doors. I want more of the community to experience our properties and feel like they belong here.

Are there any projects, improvements, or initiatives currently underway that you’re particularly excited about?

There are a few that I am really excited about. We are growing partnerships with organizations like Texarkana Repertory Theatre and Main Street Texarkana. Collaborating with local artists and community organizations has and will continue to bring new energy to our spaces and help us reach new audiences in creative, meaningful ways. This month we are focused on East Texas Giving Day [which is April 28th]. We have secured matching funds, which will double your gifts. It is inspiring to see the community rally around the museums and know that every contribution goes even further. Finally, we are beginning the process of organizing the archives, which is behind-the-scenes work but so important. It helps preserve our rich history while also making it more accessible for exhibits, research, and storytelling in the future. Altogether, it feels like we are laying the groundwork for a more vibrant, connected, and forward-looking museums system.

The Ace of Clubs House is one of Texarkana’s most recognizable historic landmarks. Can you give our readers an update on the current status of the building?

When I came into this role, the Ace of Clubs House restoration was already under way. Over the past year, the board completed nearly half of the $850,000 worth of work. The next necessary phase is updating the electrical. While critical, it is a much less glamorous part of the project, ringing in at $125,000. Since I was hired, we have raised $45,000 toward that work. Right now, the middle floor is open for monthly tours. The carriage house is also open, but the basement and top floor still require significant functional improvements before they can safely welcome visitors.

The Ace of Clubs House exterior restoration was completed in 2024. Interior restorations continue, but the middle floor and carriage house are open for tours. photo by shane darby

What are the biggest challenges involved in restoring and maintaining a historic structure like the Ace of Clubs House?

The biggest challenges are funding, logistics, and preserving authenticity. Because it is a historic property, much of the work has to be done carefully and often more slowly than modern construction. Of course funding is always a factor. Restoration is expensive, and progress depends on community support and philanthropic partnerships. It is not always glamorous work, but it’s incredibly rewarding because every step ensures that this iconic piece of Texarkana’s history will be around for future generations to enjoy.

Once restoration is complete, how do you envision the Ace of Clubs House being used by the community?

The possibilities really are endless. I want it to be accessible to everyone in the community. I would love daily tours. After all, when you search “things to do in Texarkana,” touring the Ace of Clubs House is right behind the courthouse photo.

I see hosting weddings and events, children’s programming, photo shoots, historical reenactments, and fun experiences like murder-mystery dinner. The goal is to make the house a living, active part of the community where people come to create memories, celebrate, and connect.

What role do you see the museums playing in the cultural life of Texarkana today?

Museums have a responsibility to educate the community, not just on history. We want to capture and preserve what is happening in our community right now, whether it is local Olympians, high-level musicians, or political figures. We want future generations to look back and see how we have grown and evolved. The museums serve as both a window to our past and a record of our present, connecting people to our city in meaningful ways.

Looking toward the future, what is your long-term vision for the Texarkana Museums System?

I want to create a space that is both deeply rooted in our history and fully engaged with our community today. I want the museums to be vibrant, accessible, and inclusive.

Ultimately, I hope to build a system that preserves Texarkana’s rich history while also inspiring curiosity, creativity, and connection for generations to come.

Are there any other topics about yourself, the museums system, tours, rehabilitation, or fundraising that you’d like to discuss?

There is so much happening at the museums right now! Spring Tours at the Ace of Clubs House will continue in April and May on the second Sundays of the months. Bring your mom for Mother’s Day: we are featuring Mrs. Olivia Smith Moore’s shoe and handbag collection. We will open the Ace of Clubs for East Texas Giving Day for hourly tours. Follow us on social media to stay up-to-date! We are always doing something fun!

Feature Stories

Window to Our Past, Record of Our Present