The Institute of Texan Cultures was established for the immediate purpose of preparing a creditable exhibit for Hemisfair and for the long-range program of presenting the people of Texas with the real drama of their own history and tradition. The 59th Legislature of the State appropriated $4.5 million for an appropriate Texas State Exhibit for Hemisfair and directed that due consideration be given to the construction of a facility that would suit the long-range purposes of the project.

The definitive aim of the Institute is to provide a statewide educational communication center concerned with subjects relating to the history and culture of the people of Texas. Collecting, organizing and interpreting information on Texas subjects will continue in order to produce audio-visual programs for the classrooms, museums, libraries and television programs of the State. In May 1967, $5.5 million was appropriated to create exhibits, expand the building, and provide the Institute with operating expenses for two years.