Mark Texel

Mark has worked professionally in historic sites, living history/outdoor museums, and public parks since 1988. He holds B.A.’s in American History and American Music, and a Certificate in Historic Preservation from Drew University. Currently Administrator for the New Jersey Office of Historic Sites, Mark is responsible for stewardship of over 50 state historic/cultural sites, and guides the work of 20+ history professionals, and 24 nonprofit partners. He previously served as Director of the New Jersey State Park Service (including its Office of Historic Sites) from 2012 – 2021. He is the Vice-President for the Association of Living History, Farm and Agricultural Museums and set to become its President in summer 2025. He has portrayed both civilian and military as a member of progressive living history units and active with the New Jersey Living History Advisory Council.  Mark is directing the overall visitor readiness preparation, including capital and programmatic planning, of New Jersey’s State Historic Sites for the Semiquincentennial (250th) commemoration.