Texas History Page

Treasure Hunter by W. C. Jameson - Book Review

2011-11-27T15:31:00.000-06:00

I recently had the opportunity to review W. C. Jameson’s book Treasure Hunter. If you have ever wondered what it would be like to be a modern day Indiana Jones, then Treasure Hunter is the book for you. Texan, W. C. Jameson, and his treasure hunting partners, Slade, Poet, and Stanley, traveled across the southwestern United States and northern Mexico in search of lost Spanish mines and buried treasure. They often found it and sometimes they even got to bring some of it home and cash it out. In his book, Treasure Hunter, W. C. Jameson is ready to take you along for the ride.

These treasure stashes were located primarily by doing extensive historical research in Mexico in old Spanish archival records. Then Jameson and his partners would go searching for the treasure and that is where the adventures would begin. To get some idea, just ask yourself, “How would you retrieve hundreds of pounds of gold or silver bars out of an old abandoned mine in Mexico and get it across the United States border without having the gold stolen from you by Mexican bandits or confiscated by the Mexican or United States governments?”

I enjoyed reading Treasure Hunter very much. I found it to be very entertaining and lots of fun as Jameson takes you along vicariously on several of his treasure hunting adventures. If you decide to go along, don’t forget your leather jacket, fedora, bullwhip, and your gun. You will need your gun!

Treasure Hunter: Caches Curses and Deadly Confrontations by W. C. Jameson. Treasure Hunter is available from Amazon.com for $14.95. For a few dollars more, copies signed by the author are available at the publisher Seven Oaks Publishing Company.

Texas Cannon Rolling Thunder Rolls On With New Wheels

2011-11-27T09:10:00.002-06:00

On November 12, Rolling Thunder, the cannon of the Lone Star Volunteers, came home with a new set of wheels. The Lone Star Volunteers attend Texas historic events all over the State of Texas demonstrating Rolling Thunder. Rolling Thunder is a three-quarter scale replica of an 1841 Mississippi field cannon and is similar in size to the 6 pound Twin Sisters cannons used by the Texians to win their independence from Mexico in the Battle of San Jacinto on April 21, 1836. As you can see in the photograph above, Rolling Thunder is a real firing cannon. The picture above is a picture of Rolling Thunder taken at the Texian Navy Day Celebration held at the Battleship Texas in the San Jacinto State Park near LaPorte on September 17, 2011.

It looks scary since that is about 2500 degrees of fire coming out of the end of the barrel and also the primer hole at the rear. That is the reason all the gun crew members are wearing heavy gloves and ear protection. On this occasion, the Lone Star Volunteers were firing directly into the wind and the burnt powder was blown back on them. That is one of the reasons the gun crew wears the red shirts made of 100% wool, which is a requirement for outerwear for this type of gun handling. Their ever-ready water bucket is in front, and they were joined by four other cannons from the Texas Army.

Recently the Lone Star Volunteers discovered that Rolling Thunder's 160 year-old wagon wheels were coming apart at the seams from the dryness of our recent Texas drought and the summer heat. It was customary during the Revolutionary and Civil War eras to pull the cannons down into a creek to let the water soak into the hubs and spokes of the wheels, so the cracks in the wood would swell and close up.

Rolling Thunder was machined from a solid billet of steel about 25 years ago by a local oil field worker as a hobby project, and the wood carriage that supports it was handmade to fit. Rolling Thunder's wheels came from a 160 year old wagon. Rolling Thunder It has been hauled around, fired and shown off all around Texas making appearances in many places. When they discovered there might be a problem with the 160 year old antique wheels, they asked a wagon manufacturer to take a look to see what could be done to repair them. It was decided that the wheels had deteriorated too far for repairs, and the decision was made to have new wheels made. It took three months to have the new wheels made from scratch. Yes, The wheels were made in Texas.

However, 2011 is the 175th anniversary of Texas independence from Mexico, and the whole time the wheels were being fabricated, the Lone Star Volunteers were still taking Rolling Thunder to historical events all over Texas, firing it and showing it…but being very careful whenever they had to move it. But they never held back. The only time they had to draw the line was when it was suggested that they put Rolling Thunder on the bow of the Battleship Texas using a helicopter since there is no passageway wide enough to allow for it to roll onto the Battleship Texas. Consequently they fired salutes to the Texian Navy beside the bow as shown in the picture above.

New Wheels on Rolling Thunder Cannon (Click to Enlarge)

On Saturday, November 19, Rolling Thunder showed off its new wheels at the Tomball Holiday Parade in Tomball, Texas. The cannon has been attending this parade for 11 years…it hasn’t missed one yet and doesn’t plan to miss one in the future. May Rolling Thunder roll on for another 160 years on her new wheels and continue to preserve Texas history.

New Wheels on Rolling Thunder Cannon (Click to Enlarge)

Article and photographs courtesy of Fred Mead.

Passing of Dr. Wesley Weeks Williams

2011-11-21T09:13:00.001-06:00

We report the glory of graduation to heaven on November 17 of an esteemed Methodist Pastor and long time member of the Ephraim M. Daggett Chapter #36 of the Sons of the Republic of Texas, Dr. Wesley Weeks Williams, age 88. As many of you know, he was the father of current active chapter member and past chapter president, John Wesley Wiliams. Memorial services will be held Monday, November 21, 2011 at 3:00 PM at the First Christian Church, 601 Southwest Johnson Avenue, Burleson, TX, 76028-5805 Office: 817-295-4123. An obituary can be found in the Fort Worth Star Telegram for November 19, 2011.

Our special thanks to Ephraim M. Daggett Chapter #36 webmaster, D. A. Sharpe, for providing this important information to the Texas History Page.

Fernland Historical Park Has Grand Opening

2011-11-21T08:57:00.001-06:00

Ribbon Cutting by Gareth Westlake and Dana Gibson in front of the 1846 Arnold-Simonton House at the Grand Opening of Fernland Historical Park

The Grand Opening of Fernland Historical Park was held on September 17, 2011 in historic Montgomery, Texas. The park features numerous authentic Republic of Texas and Civil War era homes, a museum focusing on the early history of the town and a teaching center for students of early Texas history.

Sam Houston State University President Dana Gibson

The ribbon was cut by Dana L. Gibson, President of Sam Houston State University, and Gareth Westlake, President of the Fernland, Inc. Board. Fernland Historical Park is located on Clepper Street in Montgomery, Texas located in western Montgomery County. The Fernland Historical Park is the product of a group effort of several entities including the Tharp Family, Sam Houston State University, the City of Montgomery, Texas, the Montgomery Historical Society and Fernland, Inc.

Guest Entering the Arnold-Simonton House to View Fernland Museum Exhibits

The Fernland Museum has already had 27 different collections of artifacts and archival documents donated or loaned to the museum. The museum curator is Melinda Cagle and she will be glad to assist you with the donation or loan of historical items, artifacts and/or documents to the museum's collections now that the museum is officially open. The collections focus on the history of the Montgomery, Texas, Montgomery County, Texas, the early Republic of Texas, and the State of Texas. Mrs. Cagle has already begun cataloging the museums collections to make the collections accessible to historical researchers and other students of the history of Montgomery, Texas and the State of Texas. If you are visiting Montgomery, swing by the museum and walk among the all the historic Texas buildings, cabins and homes in Fernland Historical Park.

Photos courtesy of Billy Ray Duncan.

Fernland Historical Park Grand Opening - Saturday, September 17, 2011

2011-09-17T08:56:00.000-05:00

The new Fernland Historical Park will have its grand opening in Montgomery, Texas on September 17, 2011. There will be a ceremony at 11:30 a.m. The park will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The Fernland Historical Park features authentic Republic of Texas era cabins and houses which can all be seen in one location. The Fernland Historical Park museum will also be opened to the public for the first time today. Two exhibits are featured: The Early History of Montgomery, Texas and Annexation: 150 Years of Texas Statehood.

San Jacinto Chapter SRT Meeting - September 1, 2011

2011-08-29T19:29:00.000-05:00

The next meeting of the San Jacinto Chapter of the Sons of the Republic of Texas.will be Thursday, September 1, 2011, at the Post Oak Grill, 1415 South Post Oak Lane, Houston, Texas at Noon. Many attendees arrive by 11:30; be there by 11:45 a.m. to ensure you get a good parking spot and a seat. The cost of lunch is $22.00, payable at the door by cash or check. Parking is free in the garage - enter restaurant from the rear door in the garage.

September's speaker will be award winning author, Jim Bevill whose topic will be "Avenging the Cruiser U.S.S. Houston - A Houstonian at Okinawa." Given the WWII theme of Texian Navy Day to be celebrated aboard the Battleship Texas on Saturday, September 17, 2011, the meeting this week will be an appropriate time for award winning author and SRT Honorary Member Jim Bevill to share with us a true story.

Jim will tell the story of a twenty-two year old man from the Heights who answered the call of duty to avenge the sinking of the heavy cruiser USS Houston (CA-30) on March 1, 1942 by enlisting in the U.S. Navy on Memorial Day in 1942. That man was James Barner Bevill, (right) whose personal stories of naval service to his son were later formed into an oral history project for the Texas State Historical Association focusing on Houstonians in World War II. This presentation gives the unique perspective of a young sailor from the Heights, who served on board an Auk Class Minesweeper in the South Pacific and reminds us of the terrible consequences of war, and that many of those survivors who returned home did so only by narrowly cheating death itself. This is his story.

PHI Oil History Symposium - Houston, Texas - March 8-10, 2012

2011-08-29T10:18:00.000-05:00

The next Oil History Symposium and Field Trip will be held in Houston, Texas, March 8-10, 2012. In the past, PHI has held the symposium in Oil City, PA, Long Beach, CA, Wichita, KS, Shreveport, LA, Lafayette, LA., Oil Springs, Ontario, and in WV. Mission of PHI: To pursue the history, heritage, and development of the modern oil industry from its 1859 inception in Oil Creek Valley, Pennsylvania, to its early roots in other regions in North American and the subsequent spread throughout the world to its current global status. www.petroleumhistory.org. PHI also publishes a yearly journal, Oil-Industry History. Our membership includes geoscientists, engineers, historians, museum curators, authors, etc.

The Petroleum History Institute (PHI), in collaboration with the Ohio Oil and Gas Energy Education Program, held its 2011 annual symposium and field trip at historic Marietta, Ohio, on the banks of the Ohio River. Participants were treated to a wide variety of talks and poster presentations ranging from the history of oil and gas in Ohio to the many contributions to the industry from Baku. On the field trip the group visited the Thorla-McKee Well, a salt water well drilled in 1814 that produced the first commercial oil in Ohio, as well as seeing an old, but still operating, natural gas engine attached to a very large band wheel driving several pump-jacks (shackle line) – still producing Ohio crude after about 100 years, and a wonderful stop at the Parkersburg Oil and Gas Museum in Parkersburg, West Virginia. The trip ended with a tour of the Petroleum Engineering Department at Marietta College.

PHI looks forward to another stimulating symposium next year at the Houston meeting, March 8-10, 2012. The abstract deadline is January 15, 2012, so start thinking about your subject and send the abstract to Bill Brice, wbrice@pitt.edu. For more information contact Jeff Spencer (spencerj320@gmail.com). Plans are to hold a meeting soon for those interested in serving on the 2012 oil history symposium committee.

2011 Texas State Genealogical Society Conference - November 4-5, Houston, Texas

2011-08-28T19:55:00.000-05:00

The genealogical conference From Allen's Landing to the Moon Landing : Destination Houston will be presented by the Texas State Genealogical Society and the Clayton Library Friends in Houston, Texas on Friday and Saturday, November 4-5, 2011. The conference will be held at the Houston Marriott South located at 9100 Gulf Freeway, Houston, Texas 77017, 713-943-7979.

The featured speaker at the conference will be Paula Stuart-Warren who will speak on the following subjects: "Finding and Using Manuscript and Special Collections Repositories;" "The WPA Era: What It Created for Genealogists;" "Southern Deeds: More than Land Deeds;" and "Railroad Records and Railroad History: Methods for Tracking." A number of other speakers include: Karen Matheson "An A+ Source: School Records" and "Give Me Your Tired, Your Poor: U.S. Immigration & Ships' Passenger Lists;" Charlie Gardes"What Did GreatGrandpa do in the Civil War? - Tracing Civilian Ancestors;" Debbie Parker Wayne "DNA and Genetic Genealogy in 2011;" James Harkin "Genealogical Resources at the Texas General Land Office;" Cindy Forman "Genealogical Chaining of Artifacts;" Randy Whited "It's All Greek to Me, Working with Foreign Records when You Don't Know the Language;" and Lynna Kay Shuffield - "Civil War Research Digitally: Find the "War" at Home."

For registration questions contact: scottfitzgerald@tyler.net or call Scott Fitzgerald at 903-539-5572 or go to the TSGS site. You can also click here for a copy of the conference registration form.

Pattison Area Heritage Society - August 29, 2011 - Methodist History

2011-08-28T18:57:00.000-05:00

The Pattison Area Heritage Society announces their August 2011 PAHS speaker, William "Bill" Carson Hardt. He has wonderful presentation about the circuit preacher during the 1930's who maintained the congregations of the Fulshear, Brookshire and Pattison Methodist Churches. The title of the presentation is titled: "Hard Times: A Pattison Preacher in the Great Depression."

Mr. Hardt is a published author on Texas history and currently volunteers with numerous historical affiliates: President-Texas United Methodist Historical society, Chair-Texas Conference of the United Methodist Church Commission on Archives and History, Vice-Chair- Austin County Historical Commission and Tour Guide Bellville historical Society. See his blog at Bill's Texas Methodist History Blog.

The Pattison Area Heritage Society will meet Monday,August 29, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. at the Pattison Area Volunteer Fire Department located at 2950 FM 359 in Pattison, Texas.

Obedience Smith To Be Remembered With Texas Historical Marker - September 10, 2011

2011-08-25T13:32:00.002-05:00

Historian, Audrey B. Cook, and Marker Dedication Chair, Debra Blacklock-Sloan, of the Harris County Historical Commission invite everyone interested in the early history of Texas and its earliest settlers to the historical marker dedication in honor of Obedience Smith, which will be held at the Lanier Middle School on Saturday, September 10, 2011 at 10 a.m. You will want to put this one on your calender. Marker dedication planners are already expecting up to 200 attendees to remember this historic Texan and the many accomplishments of her family in early Texas history.

Harris County Judge Ed Emmett will be one of the speakers and there will be a number of other government dignitaries present. So far about 20 descendants have acknowledged that they will be present: some from the Fort side of the family and some from the Frank Terry of Terry's Texas Rangers, CSA, branch of Obedience and David Smith's family.

We hope you and your family can join us on this important day. Obedience Smith arrived in Texas in February 1836, a mere few weeks before the Texas Declaration of Independence, so she shares a 175th milestone anniversary with the Republic. The Obedience Smith land grant includes a portion of what is today downtown Houston and extends down toward present day Rice University taking in thousands of acres in between.
For additional information, contact Marker Historian Audrey B. Cook at 713-522-9398.

William Ware Surprised Me One Day in Utopia

2011-08-14T17:00:00.000-05:00

For the past decade I have been researching the early history of Montgomery County, Texas for a book I intend to finish (sometime) in the next few years. In doing the research for the book, much of the newly discovered history in the book focuses on a community in Stephen F. Austin's Second Colony that preceded the founding of the town of Montgomery, Texas. This community, forgotten by historians for more than 100 years, was known as the Lake Creek Settlement. A number of the primary documents I have relied upon in my research mention an early Texian named Captain William Ware who recruited volunteers for the Texas Revolution from the Lake Creek Settlement.

In July, my wife and I were vacationing in the Texas Hill Country. We both recently read and thoroughly enjoyed David L.Cook's wonderful book, Golf's Sacred Journey: Seven Days at the Links of Utopia. It is a wonderful book to read, even if you do not golf. The book has been made into a movie starring Academy Award winner, Robert Duvall, and Lucas Black. The movie, Seven Days in Utopia will open in theatres on September 2, 2011.

Just for fun, we decided to take a detour and visit the town of Utopia as well as the golf course and the cemetery which are sites central to the story in the book. We ate breakfast at the Lost Maples Cafe and then headed out to the golf course. On the way out, we passed a Texas State Historical Marker on the side of FM 187. As we passed the sign, I glanced at it as I so often do. I immediately asked my wife, "Did that marker say WILLIAM WARE!" She said she thought that it did, so we turned around to read the marker and here on the other side of Texas, hundreds of miles from the site of my research, was a marker dedicated to a figure important to my early history of Montgomery County, Texas as well as the early history of the Republic of Texas.

When we got to the Waresville Cemetery which is located next to the Utopia Golf course, we found another Texas State Historical marker and the graves of many of members of the Ware family.

Before we left, my wife and I decided to hit a bucket of balls on the driving range just for fun. We mentioned in the pro shop that the reason we had come out to Utopia was because of David L. Cook's book. As we finished hitting our bucket of balls, we got one more big surprise. David L. Cook, who had come out to the golf course while we were practicing our driving, came out to say hello!

Lots of useful history for my research and the opportunity to meet the author of a book my wife and I had both enjoyed very much all on just one day in Utopia.

2011 Texian Navy Day

2011-05-31T08:40:00.002-05:00

Texian Navy Day

Honoring

Commodore Edwin Ward Moore

and the

Republic of Texas Navy

Saturday, September 17, 2011

11:00 AM

Battleship Texas

USS Texas (BB-35)

Battleship Texas State Historic Site

3527 Battleground Road

La Porte, Texas 77571

Speaker: Dr. Archie P. McDonald

Professor of History

Stephen F. Austin State University

Ceremony organized and hosted by:

The Sons of the Republic of Texas

SRT sponsored by:

The Battleship Texas Foundation

With assistance from the staff of the
Texas Parks & Wildlife Department

Contact: David Hanover / 903 372-6190 / dhanover@suddenlink.net

(http://www.srttexas.org/ for additional details)

Lone Star Monument and Historical Flag Park Dedication - April 21, 2011

2011-05-04T20:58:00.003-05:00

On San Jacinto Day, April 21, 2011, 175 years after the victory of the Texas army over the Mexican army on the field of San Jacinto, the much anticipated dedication and opening of the Lone Star Monument and Historical Flag Park was held in Conroe, Texas. More than a thousand people were there to help celebrate the opening of the park and remember the wonderful history of Texas.

Huge Crowd for Dedication of Lone Star Monument and Historical Flag Park

Lone Star Volunteers Fire Rolling Thunder to Salute the Raising of the Lone Star Flag of Texas

Official Souvenir Program

Lone Star Monument and Historical Flag Park

Unveiling and Dedication Ceremonies

April 21, 2011

Boy Scouts Assist in Unveiling The Texian

The Texian Comes into View

Sculptor Craig Campobella Waives to Crowd Following the Unveiling of The Texian

The Texian

The Texians who volunteered to fight were a rag-tag, undisciplined and opinionated bunch not good with taking orders and certainly not well trained in military tactics. Some like Davy Crockett, Sam Houston, Stephen F. Austin, William Barrett Travis, and Jim Bowie would become household names. But the common man that fought for freedom is who we honor today. The bronze sculpture before you represents a veteran of the Texas Revolution three years after the Battle of San Jacinto and on the day the Lone Star Flag became the official flag of the Republic of Texas. He has walked up a hill, dressed in a mixture of his best and some from his fighting days. The red sash is from the newly formed Texas army. They tied their sashes on the right hip; every other army tied theirs on the left. He plants his flagstaff into the ground remembering bitter defeats, fallen brothers, countless struggles and that final victory as he looks into the uncertain distant horizon as if to say:

"Come and Take It."

The Lone Star Monument and Historical Flag Park was made possible by the contributions of many sponsors and the efforts of many volunteers.

Grand Sponsor

Spirit of Texas Bank

The Friends of the Flag Foundation recognize Spirit of Texas Bank for their exceptional generosity as the Grand Sponsor of the dedication and unveiling ceremonies.

Boy Scouts Prepare to Assist in Unveiling the Bust of Charles B. Stewart

Contributing Sponsors

Art Foundary Carpino/Butch & Betty Bateman/Jimmy C. & Lana Beathard/Brock Agency/Bleyl & Assoc./Buckalew Chevrolet/Burditt Associates/Campobella Fine Art Bronze/ Donald Carter/City of Conroe/Randy & Janet Councill/Conroe Courier/ Conroe Outlet Mall/Dosey Doe/DWC Photography/The Eckstrum Family/Fairweather Group/Golf Cars of Housotn/Carlos &Maggie Guterrez/HEB/Bruce & Diane Henry/Karen Hornbeck/Alton Hues/Impact Printing/Charlie & Tracy Irvine/Jason's Deli/Roger & Karen Koerner/Mike & Katie Kowalski/The Lanier Family/Guy Martin/Rusty McLaughlin/Col. Leopold Ortiz, USAF Ret. & Nina Tannenbaum/Coca Cola/JCS Granite/Joe Kolb Art/John Weisner, Inc./K-Star 99.7 F.M./KJ Web Designs/Kroger/Webb & Beverly Melder/Clifton & Peggy Miller/Montgomery County/Naren & Hansa Patel/Toby & Vanessa Powell/David & Rose Roberts/Signs Etc./Signature Limo/Silver Rock Productions/Teligistics/Wal-Mart

The Bust of Texas Founding Father Charles Bellinger Stewart Was Also Unveiled

To see the biographical text on the Charles B. Stewart Marker, see Charles B. Stewart Bust Unveiled in Conroe.

Descendants of W. W. Shepperd the Founder of Montgomery, Texas

Descendants of Dr. Charles B. Stewart

Texas History Page Editor, K. K. Searle, and Texas Recording Legend, Mr. Gary P. Nunn, following the Concert. Gary P. Nunn Wrote the Classic Country and Western Song, London Homesick Blues.

Texas! The Exhibition Continues at Houston Museum of Natural Science

2011-05-02T19:40:00.001-05:00

Celebrate the 175th Birthday of the Lone Star State in a wonderfully fun and educational way at Texas! The Exhibition. The Texas! exhibition at the Houston Museum of Natural Science in Houston, Texas which has been an overwhelming success since opening on March 6 continues through September 5, 2011. Crowds for this exhibit have been huge.

There is something for everyone. The history of Texas is presented in one of the finest gatherings of Texas primary historical documents and artifacts ever put on public display in one single place. The Texas! exhibit presents different aspects of Texas history including:

Texas Earliest Inhabitants
Early Explorers
Spanish, French and Mexican Rule
Texas Colonies and Empresario Grants
Stephen F. Austin
Texas Revolution
Sam Houston
Republic of Texas
Texas Rangers
Civil War Texas
Texas Cowboys and Cattle Drives
Texas Oil Boom

There is literally something for everyone. For instance, the exhibit contains the most complete collection of Republic of Texas currency, scrip, notes and bonds ever displayed anywhere. Specimens of the only coins ever minted in Texas [among the rarest coins in the world] are part of the exhibit [See the jola 1/2 real coins minted in San Antonio de Bexar 1817-1818]. The exhibit is very eclectic. Davy Crockett's fiddle as well as portions of the actual handwritten minutes of the Convention at Washington-on-the-Brazos are also on display, along with art, flags, cannons, saddles, spurs, pistols, religious artifacts, photographs, oil drill bits, etc...

This special exhibition was organized by the Houston Museum of Natural Science with assistance from The Heritage Society in Houston, The San Jacinto Museum of History, The Dallas Historical Society, and The Torch Collection in Houston.

There are many activities associated with Texas! The Exhibition in May, June and July including:

Stars Over Texas at the Burke Baker Planetarium
Texas, The Big Picture at the IMAX Theatre
Behind the Scenes Tours
Cultural Feast
Distinguished Lecture Series
Historical Site Excursions

If you were born in Texas or got here just as soon as you could, I can't recommend Texas! The Exhibition highly enough. Don't miss it! Tickets for the Texas! exhibition are $25/adult and $18/child or senior for non-members and $12/adult or child for HMNS members. For more details, call the Houston Museum of Natural Science at 713-639-4629. Or, see the Houston Museum of Natural Science web page at http://www.hmns.org/ .

Texian Navy Day on Battleship Texas: September 17, 2011

2011-05-02T09:58:00.000-05:00

Dear Friend of Texas History:

Perhaps you are aware that the Texas Legislature in 2005 created Texian Navy Day to be the third Saturday in September each year, beginning in 2006. It has since then been memorialized in activities by various organizations in Texas who enjoy preserving and celebrating aspects of Texas History and, in particular, recognizing the value of the Texas Navy of the Republic of Texas, which existed as an independent nation 1836-1846.

This year, the Sons of the Republic of Texas will celebrate this renown holiday on September 17, 2011 on board the Battleship Texas by the Battleship Texas Foundation! This is SRT's way of honoring Texian Navy Day. It is not a state-sponsored celebration belonging to SRT, but rather one, hopefully, of many similar celebrations to take place across Texas on that day by the various heritage and history organizations of Texas.

It is my privilege to have served on the Texas Navy Committee of the SRT since 2008, and I urge you to make special plans to attend this or some other ceremony on this September 17 in honor and remembrance of our beloved Texas Navy. Suzanne and I will be at the Battleship Texas event.

Look for advertisements later in the year about time and directions. Most likely, it will be a late morning event that Saturday. I would be happy to entertain any inquiries you may have bout it.

D. A. Sharpe

The Fabulous Heywood Brothers - Book Review

2011-04-27T08:49:00.001-05:00

The book The Fabulous Heywood Brothers by Jerry D. Frazee is a wonderful slice of Texas history about the earliest days of the oil boom in Texas and Louisiana. I really enjoyed this book. The Heywood brothers were originally traveling entertainers in the northern United States. Though the book does describe some of the activities of the other Heywood brothers, the book is primarily about the amazing activities of Scott Heywood.

Following years as a traveling entertainer, Scott Heywood would first try his hand as miner in the Alaskan Gold Rush. After failing to make a go of the Alaskan gold fields, Scott Heywood attempted drilling for oil in California where he gained minor success and valuable experience. Within days of hearing about the Lucas gusher at Spindletop, he became one of the very first wildcatters in Texas. Scott Heywood drilled the second oil well, a gusher, at Spindletop and would go on to drill the very first oil well in the state of Louisiana.

As a successful oilman, Scott Heywood would become involved in Louisiana state politics as a state Senator and even get crossways with the infamous Governor Huey P. Long.

If you have ever wondered about those early days of oil in Texas or the wildcatters that located it, this book is for you. Follow one of those wildcatters as he risks it all on a hole in the ground and wins. At about 196 pages, the book is a quick and entertaining read. It is such an interesting story; I wish it had been longer. This is Jerry D. Frazee’s first commercial book and we are hoping to see more from him in the future. The Fabulous Heywood Brothers is available from ALavenderPublication.com and is only $10.00 including tax and shipping. An online PDF version is also available for $6.00.

Battle of San Jacinto Ceremony - 175th Anniversary - April 21, 2011

2011-04-23T14:55:00.001-05:00

Official State of Texas Ceremony

Commemorating the

175th Anniversary of the Battle of San Jacinto

April 21, 2011

11:00 A.M.

San Jacinto Monument

San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Park

Pledge to the Texas Flag

"Honor the Texas Flag;

I pledge allegiance to thee,

Texas, one state under God,

one and indivisible."

"Texas, Our Texas"

Texas, our Texas! All hail the mighty State!

Texas, our Texas! So wonderful, so great!

Boldest and grandest, withstanding ev'ry test;

O Empire, wide and glorious, you stand supremely blest.

CHORUS

God bless you, Texas! And keep you brave and strong,

that you may grow in power and worth,

Throughout the ages long.

Music by William J. Marsh

Program

Musical Prelude

Sam Houston State University Bearkat Marching Band

Brian Gibbs, Director

Master of Ceremonies

Ron Stone, Jr.

Welcome

Trey Strake, Chairman

San Jacinto Historical Advisory Board

Presentation of Colors

1st Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment

Invocation

Patsy Teas, Chaplain

San Jacinto Descendants

Pledge of Allegiance to the U.S. Flag

Melody Townsend

President General, CRT

National Anthem

Sam Houston State University Bearkat Marching Band

Led by Nita Wilkerson, Miss Ima Hogg Chapter, DRT

Pledge of Allegiance to the Texas Flag

Melody Townsend

President General, CRT

"Texas, Our Texas"

Sam Houston State University Bearkat Marching Band

Led by Nita Wilkerson, Miss Ima Hogg Chapter, DRT

Recognition of Scholarship Recipients

Patti Adkins, President General, DRT

Eron Tynes, President, San Jacinto Chapter, DRT

Sam F. Clark, Jr., KSJ, President General, SRT

Denton Bryant, SRT Education Committee Chairman

San Jacinto Analysis

Sam Houston IV, KSJ

Great Grandson of General Sam Houston

Recognition of San Jacinto Descendants

Recognition of USS TEXAS (SSN 775)

Sailors of the Year

Ron Brown, President

San Jacinto Chapter SRT

Special Greetings

The Honorable Jack Morman

Harris County Commissioner, Precinct 2

The Honorable Wayne Smith

State Representative, LD 128

Carter Smith

Executive Director, TPWD

Introduction of Speaker

Bob Hixon, Chairman

San Jacinto Museum of History

Principal Speaker

The Honorable Mark White

Former Governor of Texas

Benediction

Carl Osborne, Chaplain

San Jacinto Chapter, SRT

"Will You Come to the Bower"

The Texas Army Fife and Drum Corps

Laying of the Memorial Wreath

Salute to Texas Patriots

The Texas Army

Musical Finale

The 2011 Planning Committee wishes to express appreciation to the staff of the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department and the San Jacinto Museum of History for their ouststanding support of this year's ceremony.

Sponsors

Victory Sponsors

San Jacinto Chapter, DRT / San Jacinto Museum of History

Taste of Texas Restaurant

Texian Sponsors

Battleship Texas Foundation / Friends of San Jacinto Battleground

Bob and Sarita Hixon / San Jacinto Descendants

Lone Star Sponsors

Al Davis / Mr. & Mrs. L. Clay Fisher

The Honorable Sylvia Garcia / Sam Houston Chapter, SRT

Mike & Sandy Lamb / Piney Woods Chapter, SRT

San Jacinto Chapter, SRT / Mr. & Mrs. Arthur A Seeligson

Trey Strake / Texas Star Chapter, DRT

Monument Sponsors

Seth Hurin Bates Chapter, DRT / James Bowie Chapter, SRT

Ephraim M. Daggett Chapter, DRT / Alfred Davis, Jr.

George S. Gayle, III / John Floyd Gilbert Chapter, DRT

Dr. & Mrs. Carlos R. Hamilton, Jr.

Holland Lodge, No. 1, A.F. & A.M.

Dorothy Knox Howe Houghton / President Houston Chapter, SRT

Lone Star Chapter, SRT / The Honorable Sandy Pickett

Seguin Family Historical Society

General James Smith Chapter, DRT / Steamboat House Restaurant

William Barret Travis Chapter, DRT / Eron Brimberry Tynes

Mr. & Mrs. James G. Ulmer

Battleground Sponsors

Gina Chapman Bouchard / Denton Bryant

Cedar Mountain Chapter, DRT / Cradle of Texas Chapter. DRT

Aaron Estes Chapter, DRT / Fort Brown Chapter DRT

Fort Settlement Chapter, DRT / Miss Ima Hogg Chapter, DRT

James A. Reeder, Jr. & Eric D. Nevil

Sterling C. Robertson Chapter, DRT

Stenson-Simpson Chapter, DRT

Mr. & Mrs. John Stanley Taylor

Frances Cooke Van Zandt Chapter, DRT

2011 Planning Committee

Ron Brown / Nancy Burch / Al Davis / Hon. Sylvia R. Garcia

George S. Gayle III / William P. Haddock / Sam Houston IV

Steven Howell / Russ Kuykendall / Nan Morris / Bob Smith

Larry Spasic / Beth Tragus / Eron Tynes

Event Co-Chairs

Nancy Burch / Clay Fisher

Vice Co-Chairs

Al Davis / Eron Tynes

The San Jacinto Day Ceremony is organized under the auspices of the San Jacinto Historical Advisory Board: Trey Strake, Chairman; Jimmy Burke; Jan DeVault; and Bob Hixon, Chairman, San Jacinto Museum of History Association.

Charles B. Stewart Bust Unveiled in Conroe

2011-04-22T19:46:00.002-05:00

At the dedication ceremony for the Lone Star Monument and Historical Flag Park in Conroe, Texas on April 21, 2011, the bust of Texas founding father, Charles B. Stewart, was unveiled. The bust of Charles B. Stewart was sculpted by Texas artist, Craig Campobello. The biographical text regarding Charles B. Stewart on the front of the marker was written by Texas History Page author, K. K. Searle.

Dr. Charles Bellinger Stewart

Designer of the Lone Star Flag

Charles B. Stewart Marker Text

Charles Bellinger Stewart was born in Charleston, South Carolina in 1806. He came to Texas in 1830. As a member of the militia, he served at Anahauc and the Battle of Velasco in 1832. He served as the first Secretary of State of Texas in 1835. He was then elected a delegate from the Municipality of Austin to the Convention at Washington-on-the-Brazos in 1836. There he boldly signed the Texas Declaration of Independence from Mexico. He also served as a member of the committee that drafted the Constitution of the Republic of Texas.

Following the Texas Revolution, Stewart moved to the Lake Creek Settlement where the town of Montgomery was founded in 1837. In 1838, he helped located the site of the Montgomery County seat in the town of Montgomery. Stewart lived and worked in Montgomery for most of his adult life where he was a physician and successful businessman. Stewart married twice - first to Julia Shepperd, and following her death, he married Elizabeth Antoinette Boyd.

Charles Bellinger Stewart designed the world famous LONE STAR FLAG OF TEXAS which was adopted in 1839. Stewart represented Montgomery County at the Constitutional Convention and signed the Texas State Constitution of 1845. Following statehood, Stewart served in the House of Representatives of the Texas State Legislature.

The Stewart home site is located seventeen miles west of the Lone Star Monument and Historical Flag Park. Stewart died in 1885 and is buried in the New Cemetery in Montgomery, Texas. An ardent patriot, Charles B. Stewart has left his imprint boldly written in the institutions and history of his country and his state - TEXAS!

The Lone Star Monument and Historical Flag Park is located near the intersection of FM 2854 and I-45 in Conroe, Texas next to the Montgomery County Central Libary.

2011 Yellow Rose Ball

2011-04-20T08:46:00.021-05:00

The Yellow Rose Ball was held April 19, 2011, at the Crystal Ballroom of the Rice Hotel in Houston, Texas and was a huge success. The 2011 Yellow Rose Ball was sponsored by the San Jacinto Chapter, the Sam Houston Chapter, the Lone Star Chapter and the Stephen F. Austin Chapter of the Sons of the Republic of Texas. The 2011 Yellow Rose Ball remembered the 175th anniversary of the Texas Revolution and 175th anniversary of the Battle of San Jacinto. Below are some of the pictures taken by Dale Williamson.

Yellow Rose Ball Sponsors

General Sam Houston's Staff

Mr. and Mrs. Ron Brown

Dr. Lacy Hunt

Ms. Eron Brimberry Tynes

Mr. and Mrs. Tom Green

Mr. and Mrs. Charles Lusk

Mr. Dale Williamson

Colonel Sidney Sherman's Second Volunteer Regiment

Mr. and Mrs. Randy Pollard

Mr. and Mrs. John Meredith

Twin Sisters Cannons

Mr. and Mrs. Dallam Masterson

Mr. and Mrs. Charlie Fogarty

Colonel Mirabeau Lamar Texas Cavalry

Mr. Al Davis

Mr. David Hanover

Sam Houston Chapter , SRT

Deaf Smith Scouts

Mr. and Mrs. John Homman

Yellow Rose Ball
Honorary Chairs

Mr. Sam Clark, KSJ, President General, SRT
Mr. Sam Houston IV, KSJ, General, Texas Army

Yellow Rose Ball Committee

Mr. Ron Brown, Chair
Mr. Lewis Chandler
Mr. Joe Davidson
Mr. Tom Green
Mr. Tom Houston
Mr. David Mahavier
Mr. Doak McBride
Mr. Wendell A Robbins, Jr.
Mr. Denton Bryant
Mr. Dale Williamson
Mr. Dodd Eastham
Mr. Will Haddock
Mr. Robert Kendall
Mr. David Martin
Mr. Curt Osborne
Mr. Randy Pollard

Special Contributors

Mr. Joe Rosser
Mr. David Mahavier
Mr. Jim Giuffre
Mr. Denton Bryant
Mr. David Martin
Mr. Tom Green
Mr. Joe Parish, President, Capitol Flag Company

In Appreciation

Knights of Dixie Orchestra
Mr. K. R. Woods
The Lancaster Hotel / The Lusk Family

The Yellow Rose Ball

Celebrating 175 Years - The Battle of San Jacinto

Mater of Ceremonies

Mr. Ron Brown,

President San Jacinto Chapter, SRT

Invocation

Mr. Tom Houston,

Second Vice President General, SRT

Posting of the Colors

The Buffalo Soldiers Color Guard

Pledge to the United States Flag

Mr. John Meredith

President, Lone Star Chapter , SRT

Pledge to the Texas Flag

Mr. Dennis Giuffre

Second Vice President,

Sam Houston Chapter, SRT

"Texas Our Texas"

Mr. Jim Giuffre

Sam Houston Chapter, SRT

Welcome

Mr. Trey Strake

Chairman,

San Jacinto Historical Advisory Board

Toasts and Tributes

Mr. Charlie Briggs, KSJ

Past President General, SRT

Ms. Eron Brimberry Tynes

President,

San Jacinto Chapter, DRT

Mr. Tom Green, KSJ

San Jacinto Chapter, SRT

The Battle Report

Mr. Sam Clark, KSJ

President General, SRT

Remarks

Captain James Gray,

Deputy Director

CNO's Executive Panel

Front cover art work by Mr. David Mahavier, Sam Houston Chapter, SRT. Back cover art work by Mr. David Martin, Lone Star Chapter, SRT. Back cover art work: Copyright 2010, David Martin. All rights reserved.

The Gold Rush: 1847-1849 by Frank W. Lewis - Book Review

2011-04-18T06:50:00.001-05:00

Frank W. Lewis, knows how to tell a very entertaining story. The Gold Rush: 1847-1849 is the seventh in this western historical fiction series tracking the adventures of frontiersman and entrepreneur, Caleb Landers, and his eclectic band of frontier associates.

In The Gold Rush: 1847 - 1849, Caleb Landers, now a successful entrepreneur whose various enterprises are based out of Texas, accidentally gets in on the ground floor of the California Gold Rush in 1847. The Gold Rush: 1847-1849 gives an interesting picture of what it was like in the California gold fields when the first discoveries of gold were being made. He also gives us a very graphic picture of what San Francisco was like in the earliest days of the gold rush. In 1847, San Francisco, with would-be miners arriving daily, was an amazingly dangerous place filled with a growing assortment of gamblers, prostitutes and killers. Add to this mix a total lack of government and law enforcement and you have a pretty good idea of how The Gold Rush: 1847-1849 begins.

It is important to note that Frank W. Lewis is actually a successful gold miner in real life. In The Gold Rush: 1847-1849, Lewis shares his knowledge as to how claims were staked as well as the various methods used by the miners for locating gold during the early days of the California Gold Rush. This book is just about as close as you can get to participating in the California Gold Rush yourself.

Note: Frank W. Lewis paints an extremely vivid picture. Readers are warned that if this were a movie, some of the language would earn it an "R" rating and some of the sexual conduct described between various characters would give it an even stronger rating.

The Gold Rush: 1847-1849 was published by Western Tales Publishing and is available from Amazon.com. For more about author Frank W. Lewis see his website at:
http://www.rumpah.com/abouttheauthor.html .

San Jacinto Day Festival & Battle Reenactment - April 16, 2011

2011-04-16T08:14:00.004-05:00

Houston, TX – Come celebrate the 175^th anniversary of Texas independence at the site of Texas victory over the Mexican army at the San Jacinto Battleground on Saturday, April 16, 2011. On April 21, 1836, in a battle that lasted about 18 minutes, Texas won her independence from Mexico in the Battle of San Jacinto. To celebrate the 175^th anniversary, a huge festival has been planned this year. The Festival is a full day of music, entertainment, food, games and fun set amidst living history. The festival begins at 10:00 a.m. and continues until 6:00 p.m.

There will also be a reenactment of the Battle of San Jacinto beginning at 3:00 p.m. Come watch the Texas Army and the Mexican army fight the decisive battle in the war for Texas Independence on Texas 175^th birthday. The festival and the battle re-enactment will be held at the San Jacinto Battleground and State Historic Site. The Texian victory at San Jacinto would eventually lead to almost a million square miles of Mexican territory becoming part of the United States of America.

At the base of the San Jacinto Monument, there will plenty of entertainment and educational activities. We also have it on good authority that the “Rolling Thunder” cannon will also be present with members of Lone Star Volunteers to discuss the importance of cannons like “Rolling Thunder” in the decisive Battle of San Jacinto. There will also be plenty of music, activities, crafts and games for everyone. Be sure and bring the kids.

Visitors enjoy free admission to the Festival and Battle Reenactment.

Combo tickets for the elevator ride to the top of the San Jacinto Monument, Reflections history exhibit and the movie “Texas Forever!! The Battle of San Jacinto” inside the Monument can be purchased: $12 for adults, $10.50 for seniors, $8 for children. Fees for the Battleship TEXAS are $10 for adults, $5 for seniors, $3 for school and youth groups with a reservation, and free for children 12 and younger.

The San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site is located just 22 miles east of downtown Houston - take Highway 225 east to Independence Parkway north (formerly Battleground Road) and continue for three miles. Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and/or blankets for comfortable viewing of the Battle Reenactment. For more information about the San Jacinto Museum of History or the San Jacinto Day Festival and Battle Reenactment, please call 281-479-2421. For more information on the Battleship TEXAS, please contact the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department at 281-479-2431.

Also see:
http://www.sanjacinto-museum.org/About_Us/News_and_Events/2011_San_Jacinto_Festival/

2011 Martin de Leon Reunion and Symposium

2011-04-05T16:59:00.010-05:00

The de Leon family will come from around the state - and the nation - to gather in Victoria for a family reunion celebrating the family's legacy and honoring Martin de Leon, Placido Benavides, and other historical de Leon family members.

This year, which is also the 175th anniversary of Texas' Independence, the reunion will celebrate the family's significance in Texas history, including a monument dedication in Victoria's Market Square commemorating Placido Benavides' influence on Texas history, and the 25th Annual Martin de Leon Symposium, held in conjunction with the University of Houston-Victoria and the de Leon Club.

Victoria is one of the state's oldest cities. Victoria County is the only county in Texas where all famed six flags have flown. In the wake of the Mexican Revolution in 1821, twenty six applications were submitted for colonization grants. Only half were approved. Martin de Leon's application was approved in April of 1824. Of those approved, only de Leon and Stephen F. Austin fulfilled the terms of their contracts.

Martin de Leon laid out the city according to century-old Spanish colonization law and brought families to Texas to settle the new colony. Martin de Leon had four sons and six daughters. All of his children were born in Texas, except his eldest son, Don Fernando de Leon, who was born in Mexico. The de Leon family reunion brings together descendants from all over the United States for fellowship and to share the family legacy.

As part of the festivities, the City of Victoria and the Victoria County Historical Commission will place a monument on Market Square honoring the historic stand that Placido Benavides, as their first alcalde, took in 1835 against Mexico. According to historical evidence, a Mexican officer came to Victoria to arrest Benavides' brother-in-law, Jose Maria de Jesus Carvajal. Benavides stated that he was a constitutional officer - not subject to the army of Santa Anna, and would not turn Carvajal over to him. The officer departed empty handed, but returned the next day and explained that he was not happy with the Mexican governement either. This, along with many events in this region of Texas, exemplified the people's unhappiness with Mexican rule under Santa Anna, which eventually led to Texas Independence.

Another public event - the 25th annual Martin de Leon Symposium on the Humanities - is slated for Saturday, April 9, 2011 at the Leo J. Welder Center for the Performing Arts in conjunction with the University of Houston-Victoria and the de Leon Club. The event is free and open to the public. Presentations will be made by J. F. de la Teja, Ph.D., Joseph E. Chance, Ph.D. and Carolina Castillo Crimm, Ph.D.

The Victoria Convention & Vistors Bureau is happy to support the family reunion and encourages de Leon descendants to bring their boots while exploring the rich past and rediscover what Victoria has to offer. The Victoria CVB invites all Texans to head to Victoria - and bring their boots! For more information: 800-926-5774 or http://www.visitvictoriatexas.com/ .

Schedule

Friday 2 p.m. - Dedication of the Monument to Placido Benavides, Alcalde of Victoria

City Hall Plaza, 105 W Juan Linn Street

Downtown Victoria

4 p.m. - Honoring our Ancestors of Don Martin and Dona Patricia de la Garza de Leon and their Children

de Leon Plot, Evergreen Cemetary

N. Vine Street

6 p.m. - Meet and Greet and Social event

University of Houston-Victoria Multipurpose Room

3007 North Ben Wilson

Saturday April 9th, 9 am - 11 am

The Martin de Leon Symposium with Guest Speakers at the Leo J Welder Center for the Performing Arts at 214 Main Street Victoria, Texas.

The Big Picture! at Washington-on-the-Brazos for 175th

2011-03-25T07:51:00.004-05:00

The Big Picture! Being Unveiled at Washington-on-the-Brazos

Thousands in Attendance for Texas Independence Day Celebration

In recognition of the 175th anniversary of the signing of the Texas Declaration of Independence, the Star of the Republic Museum at Washington-on-the-Brazos, in partnership with the Arts Council of the Brazos Valley, unveiled The Big Picture! - a "Texas-sized" reproduction of the "Reading of the Texas Declaration of Independence," originally painted by artists Charles and Fanny Normann for the Texas Centennial in 1936.

The Big Picture! was revealed before a crowd of thousands during the annual Texas Independence Day Celebration at the historic site, on Sunday, February 27, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. The Normann's dramatic image was divided into 72 segments and then numerous local artists, both professional and amateur, were assigned a segment of the image to paint on a 2 X 3 ft. panel. When complete, the segments were assembled to create an 18 X 24 ft. facsimile of the original painting, three times the original size. The artists embodied the spirit of the delegates, working together to create something special for Texas. Following the event, the individual segments were auctioned off in an online auction.

Montgomery, Texas - Museum Celebration March 27, 2011

2011-03-24T10:34:00.010-05:00

You are cordially invited to the annual "Open House" of the Nat Hart Davis Museum Complex which will be held on Sunday, March 27, 2011 from 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. The Nat Hart Davis Museum Complex is located at 208 Liberty (F.M. 149) in Montgomery, Texas.

This year's "Open House" marks the 175th anniversary of Texas independence (March 2, 1836 - March 2, 2011) and also celebrates the birthdays of General Sam Houston and Dr. Charles B. Stewart. Both Gen. Houston and Dr. Stewart signed the Texas Declaration of Independence from Mexico 175 years ago at Washington, Texas. Special guests will attend and refreshments will be served.

The Nat Hart Davis Museum Complex is maintained entirely with private donations and the docents volunteer their time. Museum membership is available for a nominal donation which also includes membership in the Montgomery Historical Society. For more information, please call 936-597-4155. Hope to see everyone who loves Texas history and Montgomery County history there.

Lecture "Financing the Texas Revolution!"

2011-03-16T09:43:00.006-05:00

The exhibition “Texas! Making History Since 1519” is now open and on display at the Houston Museum of Natural Science in Houston, Texas and will run through September 5, 2011. Complimenting the exhibition will be the “Texas Distinguished Lecture Series.” The first lecture in the series, “The Paper Republic: Financing the Texas Revolution,” will be presented by financial historian and author of the highly acclaimed book, The Paper Republic: The Struggle for Money, Credit and Independence in the Republic of Texas. In this lecture, Bevill will explain the role of money, finances and land speculation played in the founding and ultimate loss of sovereignty of the Republic of Texas. This lecture will provide a behind the scenes look at a government on the brink of military and financial extinction.

This lecture will be presented in the IMAX Theatre at the Houston Museum of Natural Science on Tuesday, March 22, 2011 at 6:30 p.m. Tickets for the Texas Distinguished Lecture Series are $17. For more information visit http://www.hmns.org/ or call (713) 639-4629. More complete information on the lecture can be found by accessing the following link: http://www.visithoustontexas.com/event-details?id=13164 . The “Texas Distinguished Lecture Series” is sponsored by the Favrot Fund and Rice University’s Glasscock School of Continuing Studies. A book signing sponsored by Brazos Book Store will follow each lecture in the series

Who Seconded the Texas Declaration of Independence?

2011-03-15T10:12:00.018-05:00

This year marks the 175th anniversary of the signing of the Texas Declaration of Independence from Mexico. Much is known about the Independence Convention at Washington (March 1-17, 1836).

The minutes of the Convention at Washington-on-the-Brazos in 1836 have been well preserved over the last 175 years. Known as the Journals of the Convention of 1836, the minutes can be found transcribed in a number of different sources including Gammel’s Laws of Texas. The original Journals of the Convention of 1836 are located in the collection of the Dallas Historical Society.

The Journals explain in detail how, in just seventeen days, the delegates to the Convention adopted and signed the Texas Declaration of Independence from Mexico, wrote a Constitution that served the Republic of Texas for almost ten years, established an ad interim government (President, Vice President and Cabinet) and organized the military in such a way as to facilitate the very decisive victory at San Jacinto just over a month later.

The Journals tell us that on March 2, 1836 delegate Sam Houston moved for the adoption of the Texas Declaration of Independence from Mexico.

The committee rose, and Mr. Collinsworth reported that the committee of the whole had under consideration the report of the committee on the Declaration of Independence, and had instructed him to report the same with the following caption:

"The unanimous Declaration of Independence made by the delegates of the People of Texas, in General Convention at the town of Washington, on the 2nd day of March, 1836."

On motion of Mr. Houston,

Resolved that, That the Declaration of Independence, reported by the committee of the whole house, be engrossed and signed by the Delegates of the Convention.

And the question being taken thereon, it was unanimously adopted.

However the Journals are silent as to who seconded Sam Houston’s motion. About three years ago, historian and biographer, Daniel Hill, began to shed some light on this subject. He located a letter regarding the Convention at Washington, Texas published in the New Orleans Abeille [New Orleans Bee] newspaper. The letter was published in French in the March 21,1836 edition. John Forbes, an aide de camp to General Houston during the Texas Revolution wrote the letter in Washington, Texas on March 2, 1836 based on his personal observations of the Convention.

This year [2011], English versions of John Forbes March 2, 1836 letter were located in newspapers published in Baltimore, Maryland and Richmond Virginia in April of 1836. The letter provides the answer as to the identity of the delegate who seconded the Texas Declaration of Independence. The letter reads in part:

Washington, Texas, March 2.

To Col. Millard -

Dir Sir: The Convention was organized yesterday, and during the first day, matters looked squally, and disagreeable. That body was intent on making a Declaration of Independence to hurl into the teeth of Santa Anna and his myrmidons. They accordingly appointed a committee to report a Declaration of Independence; and this morning after the Convention assembled, the committee reported a very able one. Its adoption was moved by Gen. Houston, and seconded by Col. Palmer of the Bayou - and after a splendid speech from the General, it was unanimously adopted. Not one dissenting voice.

“Col. Palmer of the Bayou” was Colonel Martin Palmer (often spelled Parmer) who was one of the delegates from the Municipality of San Augustine (formerly known as the Ayish Bayou District).

Before coming to Texas, Martin Parmer had served in the first Missouri General Assembly in the House of Representatives beginning in 1820 and in the Senate beginning in 1824. Shortly thereafter, he removed to Texas and helped instigate and lead the Fredonian Rebellion (1826-1827). In 1835, Parmer had been elected a delegate to the Consultation at San Felipe in 1835 where he nominated Henry Smith to be the first American born Governor of Texas. Following the Consultation, Parmer had served as a member of the General Council of the Provisional Government of Texas.

Martin Parmer signed documents declaring the region known as Texas independent of Mexico twice (1826 during the Fredonian Rebellion and 1836 during the Texas Revolution). In addition to seconding the adoption of the Texas Declaration of Independence and signing the document, Parmer also served as chairman of the committee that drafted the Constitution of the Republic of Texas.

The John Forbes letter shown here is from the Friday, April 8, 1836 edition of the Richmond Enquirer, published at Richmond, Virginia.

Will The Daughters Lose Battle of the Alamo?

2011-03-14T20:49:00.007-05:00

Below is the text of a bill that was filed on March 11, 2011 that would take the preservation and maintenance of the Alamo away from the Daughters of the Republic of Texas (DRT) and give it to the Texas Historical Commission (THC).

Text of House Bill 3725:

82R12613 YDB-D

By: Guillen H.B. No. 3725

A BILL TO BE ENTITLED AN ACT
relating to the preservation and maintenance of the Alamo by the Texas Historical Commission.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:

SECTION 1. Section 442.004, Government Code, is amended by adding Subsection (c-1) to read as follows:

(c-1) The executive director shall:

(1) employ staff necessary to preserve and maintain the Alamo and contract for professional services of qualified consultants; and

(2) prepare an annual budget and work plan, including usual maintenance for the Alamo and other buildings on the Alamo property, their contents, and their grounds.

SECTION 2. Chapter 442, Government Code, is amended by
adding Subchapter D to read as follows:

SUBCHAPTER D. THE ALAMO

Sec. 442.101. PRESERVATION AND MAINTENANCE OF ALAMO.

(a) The Alamo is under the jurisdiction of the commission. The commission is responsible for the preservation, maintenance, and restoration of the Alamo and its contents and the protection of the historical and architectural integrity of the Alamo's exterior,
interior, and grounds.

(b) Any power or duty related to the Alamo formerly vested in any other state agency or entity is vested solely in the commission.

(c) Notwithstanding any other law, the commission is not required to comply with state purchasing law related to requests for proposals in carrying out its duties under this subchapter.

Sec. 442.102. ASSISTANCE FROM OTHER AGENCIES. The commission may consult with the State Preservation Board in the performance of duties under this chapter. On request of the
commission, the State Preservation Board shall assist the commission with the commission's duties relating to the Alamo.

Sec. 442.103. AGREEMENT WITH NONPROFIT CORPORATION.

(a) The commission shall enter into an agreement with a nonprofit corporation for the management, operation, and financial support of the Alamo.

(b) The agreement at a minimum must:

(1) detail the expectations and goals of the commission and the nonprofit corporation;

(2) outline the management and operation of the Alamo;

(3) establish management standards;

(4) provide for oversight by the commission;

(5) address funding and payment for costs;

(6) require some Alamo employees to be commission employees;

(7) address equipment;

(8) establish insurance requirements;

(9) address compliance with local, state, and federal building and operation laws;

(10) address construction, maintenance, and repair;

(11) establish the term of the agreement;

(12) require submission of financial information from the nonprofit corporation;

(13) address other activities of the nonprofit corporation that might undermine the financial condition of the nonprofit corporation or its duties under the agreement;

(14) address ownership by this state of the Alamo and its contents;

(15) include a dispute resolution process;

(16) provide that the laws of this state govern the agreement; and

(17) include notice requirements.

Sec. 442.104. THE ALAMO ACCOUNT.

(a) The Alamo account is a separate account in the general revenue fund.

(b) The account consists of:

(1) transfers made to the account;

(2) fees and other revenue from operation of the Alamo;

(3) grants and donations from any source; and

(4) income earned on investments of money in the account.

(c) Appropriations to the commission for the preservation, operation, or maintenance of the Alamo shall be deposited to the credit of the account.

(d) The commission may use money in the account to administer this chapter, including to support the preservation, repair, renovation, improvement, expansion, equipping, operation,
or maintenance of the Alamo or to acquire a historical item appropriate to the Alamo.

(e) Any money in the account not used in a fiscal year remains in the account. The account is exempt from the application of Section 403.095.

Sec. 442.105. GRANTS; DONATIONS. The commission may accept a grant or donation for any program or purpose of the Alamo.

SECTION 3. Section 2203.003, Government Code, is amended by amending Subsection (a) and adding Subsection (e) to read as follows:

(a) The Daughters of the Confederacy, Texas Division, and the Daughters of the Republic of Texas each may charge admission to state property over which each organization has custody or
control[. This subsection does not apply to the Alamo].

(e) Unless the Daughters of the Republic of Texas has entered into an agreement with this state under Section 442.103, the organization may not exercise any custody or control over the
Alamo, its grounds, or its contents and may not have an organizational presence at the Alamo or on its grounds.

SECTION 4. The following are repealed:

(1) Article 6394, Revised Civil Statutes of 1911; and

(2) Chapter 7, Acts of the 29th Legislature, Regular Session, 1905.

SECTION 5.

(a) On January 1, 2012, the following are transferred to the Texas Historical Commission:

(1) all powers and duties of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas relating to the Alamo;

(2) all unobligated and unexpended funds granted to the Daughters of the Republic of Texas and designated for the administration of the Alamo;

(3) all equipment and property acquired with state money by the Daughters of the Republic of Texas and used for the administration of or related to the Alamo; and

(4) all files and other records of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas kept by the organization regarding the Alamo.

(b) The Daughters of the Republic of Texas may agree with the Texas Historical Commission to transfer any property of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas to the Texas Historical
Commission before January 1, 2012, to implement the transfer required by this Act.

(c) Notwithstanding any other law, the Daughters of the Republic of Texas shall continue to perform functions and activities related to the Alamo and granted by Chapter 7, Acts of
the 29th Legislature, Regular Session, 1905, until January 1, 2012, and the former law is continued in effect for that purpose.

SECTION 6. This Act takes effect September 1, 2011.

Due to the limitations of Blogger software, underlines and deletions could not be shown here. To see the bill as filed on the House of Represetntives web site, click here.

Pattison Area Heritage Society Meeting - February 28, 2011

2011-02-28T08:41:00.003-06:00

Next Guest Night is tonight Monday February 28, 2011. Mark your calenders and get ready for the next Pattison Area Heritage Society meeting and hear some great stories and history that originated from the folks in the Pattison, Texas area. Tonight's guest speaker will be Betty Robinson a very interesting woman who grew up in San Felipe, Texas.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and event begins at 7:00 p.m. at the Pattison Area Volunteer Fire Department.

175th Texas Independence and Sam Houston's Birthday! Huntsville, Texas

2011-02-27T20:02:00.006-06:00

The Walker County Historical Commission, the Sam Houston Memorial Museum, the Sam Houston Statue and Visitors Center, and Main Street cordially invite you to celebrate the 175th anniversary of Texas Independence and General Houston's Birthday, Wednesday, March 2, 2011. This year's celebration will include the dedication of the Bear Bend Cabin.

The coffee and reception will be from 9:15-10:15 a.m. at the Sam Houston Statue and Visitors Center. The ceremony at the grave of Sam Houston in the Oakwood Cemetery will begin at 11:00 a.m. The speaker will be M. Scott Sosebee. Sam Houston's grave is located on Sam Houston Memorial Drive (Avenue I) & 9th Street (rain site Mance Park Middle School). The luncheon will follow at 12:30 p.m. at The Homestead on 19th St., 1215 19th Street. The cost of the meal is $20.00.

The dedication of the Bear Bend Cabin, "Toast of Texas" and Sam Houston Birthday Cake will begin at 2:00 p.m. at the Sam Houston Memorial Museum Grounds.

For the luncheon, Please make checks payable to the Walker County Historical Commission c/o Main Street Program, 1203 University Avenue, Huntsville, Texas 77340. There are only one hundred seats available for the luncheon and payment must be received in advance of the event. So, please make reservations early. They cannot accommodate walk ins.

For more information, contact Kim McAuliffe, Huntsville Main Street at 936-291-5920 or email kmcauliffe@huntsvilletx.gov .

2011 Battle of San Jacinto Symposium

2011-02-12T16:53:00.006-06:00

The 2011 Battle of San Jacinto Symposium will be held Saturday, April 16, 2011 from 9:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Hilton University of Houston Hotel and Conference Center at the University of Houston. This year's theme will focus on the impact of the Battle of San Jacinto on the United, States, Texas and Mexico as well as the the Battle's cultural legacy depicted in art.

Dr. Daniel Walker Howe, winner of the 2008 Pulitzer Prize for his book, What Hath God Wrought: The Transformation of America, 1815-1848, will address "The Battle's Impact on the United States." Dr. Ty Cashion, Professor of History at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, will address "The Battle's Impact on Texas." Hon. Romeo Ricardo Flores Caballero is the Director of the State Archives of Nuevo Leon in Monterrey and a noted authority on the Armerican-Mexican frontier and will speak about "The Battle's Impact on Mexico." Dr. Sam Deshong Ratliffe is Head of the Bywaters Special Collections at the Hamon Arts Library at Southern Methodist University and will speak on "The Battle's Cultural Legacy Through Its Depiction in Art."

The 2011 Battle of San Jacinto Symposium is just $55.00 per person and includes speakers, lunch, parking, exhibits, books dealers, and fellowship with Texas history buffs. The Hilton University of Houston Hotel and Conference Center is located at 4800 Calhoun Road, Houston, Texas. The Symposium is also Certified Professional Education Provider for school teachers.

The Symposium is sponsored by Friends of the of San Jacinto Battleground Association. All Symposium proceeds benefit the Friend's educational programs and the historic preservation mission at the San Jacinto Battleground. For additional information see the Friends of San Jacinto Battleground Association's web site at http://www.friendsofsanjacinto.org/.

175th Anniversary of Texas Independence - Governor's Proclamation

2011-02-07T14:36:00.002-06:00

Governor Rick Perry has issued a proclamation recognizing the 175th anniversary of the signing of the Texas Declaration of Independence from Mexico. The Texas Independence Day proclamation reads as follows:

State of Texas

Office of the Governor

One hundred and seventy-five years ago, on March 2, 1836, delegates from throughout what was then the Mexican Deprtment of Texas convened at Washington-on-the-Brazos and signed the Texas Declaration of Independence. Thus, the Republic of Texas was born.

From the fall of 1835 to spring 1836, Texans of all backgrounds came together to fight for liberty and better government. It was a daunting struggle, and the Texas rebels endured hardship and defeat, most notably at the Alamo and Goliad. But with determination, Texan forces defeated Santa Anna, which ended the war and assured Texas' independence.

The Republic of Texas existed nine years until it joined the union as the 28th state on December 29, 1845. The Lone Star State still has the distinction of being the only state to have been a sovereign country.

At this time, I encourage all Texans to learn more about, reflect on and take pride in their unique and special history.

Therefore, I Rick Perry, Governor of Texas, do hereby proclaim March 2, 2011, to be

Texas Independence Day

in Texas, and urge the appropriate recognition whereof.

In official recognition whereof, I hereby affix my signature this the 11th day of January, 2011.

Rick Perry
Governor of Texas

Houston History Book Fair & Symposium

2010-11-06T18:04:00.002-05:00

Houston Arts & Media and Story Sloane's Gallery will be presenting the Houston History Book Fair & Symposium on Saturday, November 13, 2010 from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. at the heights Church of Christ on Heights Blvd. and 16th Street.

There will be plenty to do. Dozens of local history books will be available. Come and meet the authors and get your books autographed. A different author will speak every half hour and The Arcadia Publishing Authors Panel will conduct a discussion at 12:00 noon which will cover researching and publishing a book on area history.

Speakers appearing in the church library will include:

10:30 - Carol Vance: Boomtown D. A.
11:00 - Bill Hobby: How Things Really Work: Lessons from a Life in Politics
11:30 - Naomi Carrier - Go Down Old Hannah
12:00 - Arcadia Publishing Authors Panel Discussion, Main Hall, four authors on preparing your book on local history: Brian Davis Lost Galveston; Ron Goodwin African-American Houston; Sallie Gordon Courtlandt Place; Anne Sloane Houston Heights.
1:00 - Ed Cotham: Four Gulf Coast Civil War Titles
1:30 - Kurt Voss: Elissa: The Tall Ship of Texas
2:00 - Jim Bevill: The Paper Republic
2:30 - Michael Botson: Labor, Civil Rights & Hughes Tool Company
3:00 - Doug Weiskopf: Rails Around Houston
3:30 - Dwight Watson: Race & The Houston Police Department, 1930-1990

Other authors attending will include Ann Becker Houston 1860-1900; Ruth Burke & Dan Holbroke Seabrook; Burton Chapman Telephone Road Texas; Audrey Cook Obedience Fort Smith; Daniel Monsanto Houston Postcards; Pat Pollicoff & Bruce Kelly Sugar Land; and David Welling Cinema Houston.

Texas Declaration of Independence - 175th Anniversary Program for Descendants

2010-10-15T10:58:00.004-05:00

There will be a special program to honor the descendants of the signers of the the Texas Declaration of Independence. Dr. Shawn B. Carlson with the Star of the Republic Museum has provided us with the date and time of this special program. The program will be held on Sunday, February 27, 2011 at 2 p.m. at the Washington-on-the-Brazos Historic Site in Washington, Texas. This special program is part of the celebration of Texas 175th birthday.

On March 2, 1836, the Texas Declaration of Independence from Mexico was unanimously adopted by the delgates at the Convention held at Washington, Texas. As March 2, 2011 falls on a Wednesday, the celebrations will be held on the prior weekend on Saturday and Sunday, February 26 and 27, 2011.

If you had ancestor who signed the Texas Declaration of Independence, The Star of the Republic Museum needs your ancestor's name, your name, mailing address, telephone number and email address. For more information contact:

Shawn B. Carlson, Ph. D.
Curator of Collections and Exhibits
Star of the Republic of Texas Museum
P.O. Box 317
Washington, Texas 77880

Office: 936-878-2461, ext. 241
Fax: 936-878-2462

email: scarlson@blinn.edu

http://www.starmuseum.org

Image above courtesy of Dr. Shawn B. Carlson and the Star of the Republic Museum.

Pattison Area Heritage Society Guest Will Be Sam Houston IV

2010-09-26T22:04:00.006-05:00

On Monday, September 27, 2010, at 7:00 pm., the Pattison Area Heritage Society welcomes you to their monthly "Mystery Guest Night." This month's "mystery guest" is Sam Houston IV, great grandson of Texas hero, General Sam Houston and his wife, Margaret Lea Houston. Texas historian, Sam Houston IV, is a member of the Sons of the Republic of Texas and has been honored as a Knight of San Jacinto. Governor Rick Perry also recently appointed Sam Houston IV General of the Texas Army.

The location of the Pattison Area Heritage Society meeting will be at the Pattison Area Volunteer Fire Department in Pattison, Texas. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for visiting and networking.

Lone Star Monument and Historical Flag Park Web Site

2010-09-26T21:56:00.002-05:00

The Lone Star Monument and Historical Flag Park being built in Conroe, Texas has a detailed web site with lots of great information. The web site can be seen at http://www.texasflagpark.org . The Unveiling and Grand Opening Ceremonies for the Lone Star Monument and Historical Flag Park will be will be held on San Jacinto Day, April 21, 2011 and will mark the 175th anniversary of Texas independence from Mexico.

USS Texas Vets Reunion October 8-11, 2010

2010-08-12T19:27:00.003-05:00

This article was written by Steven K. Howell for the Summer 2010 editon of "The Dreadnought" the newsletter of the Battleship Texas Foundation and appears with his permission. The web site of the Battleship Texas Foundation is http://www.battleshiptexas.org/ .

The annual reunion of the USS TEXAS veterans will be held October 8-11, 2010. The reunion will again be headquartered at the Nassau Bay Hilton on Clear Lake. If you are interested in participating, please contact Johnita Smith; she is President of the TEXAS Veterans Association. Her phone is 405-823-8638 and her e-mail is Bajaok54@hotmail.com. We are always honored when our TEXAS vets come "home" for a visit.

The Battleship TEXAS has been honored to serve as the host for a wide range of events and reunions by local, regional and national veterans organizations. We always welcome the opportunity to help veteran, military and patriotic groups bring their members together on board the world's last dreadnought-class battleship.

If your organization is looking for a place to hold its next reunion, meeting or funciton, please consider the TEXAS. Contact the local Texas Parks and Wildlife Department staff at 281-479-2431 for additional information.

197th Anniversary of the Battle of Medina: The Bloodiest Battle in Texas History

2010-08-09T10:10:00.010-05:00

The public is invited to attend the 197th anniversary of the Battle of Medina, at a site in Atacosa County overlooking the Galvan Creek, where it is believe between 800 and 1,300 men died on August 18, 1813. This was the bloodiest and largest lose of life of any battle in Texas history, and it occurred about 20 miles south of San Antonio, Texas. The ceremony will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 21, 2010, and everyone interested in Texas history is invited.

Due to the heat, we will only be at the battle site for about one hour so that each Society can re-dedicate their marker. The marker for American Revolutionary Patriot Peter Sides, and the Sons of the Republic of Texas marker for Benjamin Allen and all the other men who fought and died in this battle will be re-dedicated. The SAR, DAR, SRT, DRT, The Daughters of the War of 1812 Society, and the Mayflower Society will all re-dedicate their markers, making this one of the most honored and dedicated historic sites in Texas. Members of the Mayflower Society will also re-dedicate their marker for Samuel Alden, a printer from Philadelphia, who is believed to have died after the Battle of Medina and descended from the Mayflower Pilgrim.

The combined Color Guard will present the Colors to begin the ceremony and will fire a musket salute to all those who participated in this battle on both sides to conclude the event. Everyone will then retire to Pleasanton, Texas for lunch on your own, and then reconvene at the Pleasanton Church of Christ located at 1003 North Main Street for an air-conditioned history seminar from 1:00 p.m. to approximately 3:30 p.m. in the church meeting hall. The Atacosa County Historical Commission members will graciously be providing us with refreshments in the afternoon at the church during the symposium again this year.

The afternoon history seminar will present the latest research on the First Republic of Texas and the Battle of Medina. Several speakers will be featured including Robert H. Thonhoff, KSJ, an award winning author; and Dr. Jesus F. de la Teja, PhD. Chair of the History Department at Texas State University, in San Marcos, Texas. Frank, as Dr. de la Teja likes to be called, is also the former President of the Texas State Historical Association and was appointed the first Texas Historian by Governor Rick Perry.

To reach the site for the 10:00 a.m. outdoor ceremony, proceed south from San Antonio on Highway 281 some 15 miles from the intersection of Loop 410 South and Highway 281, to the community of Espey, Texas, and turn right (west) where signs will direct you to the ceremony. For additional details contact Tom Green, at (281) 922-1118, or his cell phone at (832) 687-3474. Wear a hat and comfortable shoes and bring drinking water and a lawn chair that will not easily sink in the sand.

Cabins Moved to Fernland Historical Park in Montgomery, Texas

2010-08-07T16:02:00.027-05:00

On August 5-6, 2010, in the middle of the night, Honea Egypt Road in Montgomery County looked like a scene out of the movie Close Encounters of the Third Kind. There were patrol units from many different law enforcement agencies from all over Montgomery County and bucket trucks from numerous electric and telephone companies serving Montgomery County. And all of them had their emergencies lights on. The police were there to control traffic and the utility companies were there to raise power-lines as two of the oldest log cabins in Texas were moved to Montgomery, Texas to the Fernland Historical Park.

The two cabins moved were the Crane cabin and Jordan (Jardine) cabin. These two cabins were the first two homes moved to the site of the Fernland Historical Park of Montgomery which is set to open in early 2011. A few days earlier, an early Texas blacksmith shop was moved to the site by the Cherry House Moving company of Houston which was the same company that moved the two cabins to the Fernland Historical Park.

The site of the Fernland Historical Park project is near the Charles B. Stewart Library in the Buffalo Springs planned development community on Clepper Drive in Montgomery, Texas. The acreage was donated by Holly and Philip LeFevre. This site will represent a unique attraction and educational experience.

Soon to be a destination in Montgomery for historical tourism, Fernland Historical Park will be the new home for six examples of early Texas architecture. The oldest cabin dates back to 1826, one of only five cabins in the State of Texas from that era. Five of the structures have been or will be moved in the near future from a site off Honea Egypt Road. They will be joined by the Arnold-Simonton home, which is on the National Historical Register, now just a few blocks away from the Fernland Historical Park in Montgomery.

The group of five buildings were purchased some years ago by Mae and Carroll Tharp, members for decades of the Montgomery Historical Society. Mr. Carroll Tharp was an architect who designed many buildings in the Houston area. The Tharps had the structures dismantled, moved to their acreage off Honea Egypt Road, and reconstructed exactly as originally built. The four cabins are on the Texas Historical Register (see the Texas Historical Commission markers on the two cabins above). The Tharps spent many years collecting artifacts and furnishings appropriate for each building.

The City of Montgomery holds a long-term lease for the group of five buildings from Sam Houston State University in Huntsville. The Arnold-Simonton home is owned by the Montgomery Historical Society, which will manage the tours and tour docents and assist with special events. This will truly be a unique historical site that will be the pride of all Texans. The web site for the Fernland Historical Park can be seen at fernland.org. See you in early 2011 for the grand opening!

Top two photos of cabins being moved to Fernland Historical Park are courtesy of Jack B. Shepherd. Bottom three photos of cabins at Fernland Historical Park in Montgomery, Texas are courtesy of Marisa A. Searle.

Lone Star Monument and Historical Flag Park Groundbreaking Ceremony

2010-07-29T09:34:00.009-05:00

The Lone Star Monument and Historical Flag Park Groundbreaking was held June 24, 2010 where the park will begin construction adjacent to the Montgomery County Memorial Library (I-45 in Conroe). The land was donated by Montgomery County for the park and was a city/county cooperative effort. The vision of making it The Lone Star Monument and Historical Flag Park came from Craig Campobella and the "Friends of the Flag" with the creation of the statue known as "The Texian" and the added sculpture of Dr. Charles B. Stewart by Campobella.

The park will be educational and will help promote Texas history and tourism for all of Montgomery County - "Birthplace of the Texas Flag"and the surrounding area including the history of Conroe, The Woodlands, Magnolia, Shenandoah, Montgomery (Home of Charles B. Stewart when the Lone Star Flag was designed and the new Fernland Historical Park); as well as Huntsville (Home of General Sam Houston and the Sam Houston Memorial Museum) and Washington on the Brazos - "The Birthplace of Texas."

Those who brought greetings during the ceremonies were: Conroe Mayor Webb K. Melder; Judge Alan B. Sadler; Todd Stephens (Congressman Kevin Brady's office who presented an American Flag); Luine Hancock (Senator Robert Nichols Office); Huntsville Coucilman Mac Woodward; State Representative Brandon Creighton; Huntsville Mayor J. Turner; Montgomery Mayor Travis Mabry; Shenandoah Mayor Gary Watts; Shenandoah City Manager Gregg Smith; Janice Campbell (lead Interpreter for Washington on the Brazos); Nelda Luce Blair (The Woodlands Township); Willis City Manager Hector Forestier; Pat Spackey (Descendant of Texas Flag Designer Charles B. Stewart; President of the Judge Nathaniel Hart Davis Chapter of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas, and Publicity Chair of the Texas Heritage Society); and David Martin (President of the Lone Star Chapter of the Sons of the Republic of Texas and a member of the Texas Heritage Society).

A special "thank you" was given to the "Friends of the Flag" committee: Jim Walker, Dave Clements, Joe Kolb, Kathleen Rowland, Karen Strong, Pat Spackey, and the Daughters of the Republic of Texas, and David Martin and John Homman and the Sons of the Republic of Texas; and local artist Craig Campobella. The ceremonies were planned by the City of Conroe which included: Paul Virgadamo, Jr. (City Administrator); Larry Calhoun (Downtown Manager); Mike Riggens, Lauren Arnold and Staff (Parks and Recreation); Norman McGuire, Arthur Buckner and Staff (Public Works); and Jana Patrick (Arts and Communications Coord./PIO & Administration).

The park is scheduled for completion and the dedication is planned for April 21, 2011.

Albert Sidney Johnston Camp #67 Meeting July 21, 2010

2010-07-20T12:10:00.002-05:00

The Albert Sidney Johnston Camp #67 of the Sons of the Confederate Veterans will be holding their monthly meeting on Wednesday, July 21, 2010. The guest speaker will be Danny Sessums who will speak on "The Battle of Arkansas Post." The meeting will be held at The Briar Club in Houston, Texas which is located at the intersection of Westheimer and Timmons Lane.

The Executive Board meeting begins at 5:30 p.m. and all camp members in good standing are invited to attend. There is a happy hour (cash bar) at 6:30 p.m. The dinner and camp meeting begin at 7:00 p.m. Please R.S.V.P. to Ev Gardner at 281-980-9054 or Dodd Eastham at dodd@bayoudog.org .

Officers of the Albert Sidney Johnston SCV Camp #67 include:

Commander Everette Gardner

First Lt. Commander Bill Holmes

Second Lt. Commander John Beard

Third Lt. Commander Peter Gryska

Adjutant/Treasurer Dodd Eastham

Texian Navy Day Ceremony in Matagorda - September 18, 2010

2010-07-18T02:34:00.003-05:00

On Saturday, September 18, 2010, at 11:00 a.m., The Sons of the Republic of Texas will sponsor a ceremony at Matagorda Cemetery, honoring Secretary of the Navy Samuel Rhoads Fisher and the entire Republic of Texas Navy. After witnessing the capture of the Texas flagship Independence during a running battle with the Mexican ships Vencedor del Alamo and Libertado near the mouth of the Brazos River on April 17, 1837, Secretary Fisher planned the storied Yucatan Expedition, where the Texas Navy raised the Lone Star Flag of the Republic of Texas on Mexican soil.

The local citizens in Matagorda are excited about the event that will honor the Republic of Texas Navy and one of their early citizens, Samuel Rhoads Fisher. Several descendants of Secretary Fisher will be present to participate in the ceremony. Representatives from the Daughters of the Republic of Texas and the Texas Navy Association will participate.

With the approach of the 175th anniversary of Texas Independence from Mexico, it is appropriate to remember the events that led to the Texas Revolution. Much of the colonists' discontent with the centralist Mexican government involved maritime issues, including unreasonable tariffs on shipped goods. In September 1835, the first naval engagement occurred near Velasco, between the Texian privateer ship, the San Felipe, and the Mexican revenue cutter, the Correo Mejicano, the Correo Mejicano was forced to surrender unconditionally.

Less than one month later, the first land engagement between Texian colonists and Mexican forces occurred at Gonzales on October 2, 1835. The fall of 1835 in Texas was as volatile as the pre-revolution American sentiment in the British colonies only 60 years earlier.

Bringing lawn chairs, hats and umbrellas for rain or sun will be good planning. If storming or lightning, the ceremony will be held in the Stanley-Fisher House Bed & Breakfast, the historic home of Samuel Rhoads Fisher - 107 St. Mary Street, Matagorda, Texas 77457. Overnight accommodations in Matagorda are limited or already booked, but there should be ample room in nearby Bay City, 15 miles from Matagorda.

After the ceremony, the Texas Navy Association is sponsoring a BBQ lunch at Christ Episcopal Church Fellowship Hall located at 206 Cypress Street in Matagorda. The cost of the meal is $7 per person, and lunch reservations are requested for planning purposes. Tickets for lunch will be pre-sold in Matagorda County. For attendees outside of the Matagorda area, lunch reservations must be made by contacting Admiral William C. Fisher, IV by email at: wyebrook@swbell.net .

After lunch, Rik and Peggy Stanley, owners of the Stanley-Fisher House Bed & Breakfast, have graciously opened their historic home to everyone attending the Texian Navy Day ceremony. This home was built in 1832 in Matagorda by Samuel Rhoads Fisher.

For people staying in the area Saturday night, Christ Episcopal Church has planned a colonial Texas church service at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday. Christ Church is the oldest Episcopal Church in Texas, established in 1838; Samuel Rhoads Fisher was one of its early members.

Texian Navy Day is observed on the third Saturday of September. The Honorable Todd Staples, currently the Agricultural Commissioner of Texas and SRT honorary member, authored the legislation designating Texian Navy Day as an official state recognition day. Enacted by the 79th Texas Legislature in 2005, Texian Navy Day is honored each year on the third Saturday in September. Commissioner Staples drafted the legislation as a Texas State Senator, which office he served at the time.

For additional information, contact SRT Texas Navy Committee Chairman David Hanover at (903) 509-2206 or by email at: dhanover@suddenlink.net

Our special thanks to D. A. Sharpe for providing this press release to the Texas History Page. D. A. Sharpe is a member of the Sons of the Republic of Texas and the Texian Navy Day Committee. He is a member of the Ephraim M. Daggett Chapter of the SRT in Fort Worth and is the Web Master for that chapter. D. A. Sharpe is an Admiral in the Texas Navy and Executive Officer for the Admiral Chester W. Nimitz Squadron of the Texas Navy Association.

2010-06-25T11:01:00.005-05:00

The Grand Opening and unveiling of the Lone Star Monument and Historical Flag Park will be held Thursday, April, 21, 2011 at 5:30 p.m. at the site of the park at the intersection of I-45 and FM-105 in Conroe, Texas. There will be a parade from downtown Conroe to the Lone Star Monument and Historical Flag Park.

Texian re-enactors and SRT/DRT members: You are needed to make this a great 175th annivesary opening of this great site dedicated to the heroes of the Texas Revolution. For more information see the Lone Star Monument and Historical Flag Park web site or contact David Martin at dmartin@lonestarsrt.org or (281) 467-8146. This will be a 3 1/2 rated event. There will be volley salutes and at least one cannon.

SRT Lone Star Chapter Annual Dinner Meeting

2010-06-23T09:33:00.003-05:00

Lone Star Chapter #58 of the Sons of the Republic of Texas will be holding their annual dinner meeting at the Steamboat House Restaurant On July 10, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. The Steamboat House Restaurant is located at 8040 N. Houston Parkway W., Houston, Texas.

The Lone Star Chapter of the SRT will welcome as their guest speaker Texas historian, Dr. Gregg Dimmick. Gregg Dimmick is the author of the the much acclaimed book, Sea of Mud. The dinner program will also include the Montgomery County Texas History Teacher of the Year Awards. There will also be a drawing for a Brown Bess Musket and a Bowie Knife. Dinner including gratuity is $40 per person. Please R.S.V.P. by July 8, 2010 by emailing dmartin@lonestarsrt.org or by calling 281-467-8146.

Confederate Flag Memorial - Texas Division SCV

2010-06-22T10:49:00.013-05:00

Honor your ancestor by helping the Texas Division of the SCV construct a Confederate Flag Memorial on Interstate-10. See an artist rendition of the Confederate Flag Memorial in the image above. The land for the new Confederate Flag Memorial is located 5 miles west of the Texas/Louisiana state line on I-10. Your support will enable passengers in over 55,000 cars per day to see Confederate Flags flying proudly in the Texas breeze.

Help the Texas Division of the Sons of Confederate Veterans make this dream a reality, become a sponsor with your tax deductible donation. Sponsor one of the 20 Memorial Flagpoles available at $1100 each, or one of the 13 State Memorial Columns for $2000 each. Flagpoles and Columns will bear a plaque with an inscription of the donors choice. Or, sponsor a Memorial Brick at $50., $100 or $300; or a Memorial Bench at $800. Memorial Bricks and Benches will be engraved with an inscription of the donor's choice. You can also recieve a "Texas Dvivison Crest" for each $10.00 donation to the Confederate Flag Memorial fund.

Mail checks payable to "Texas Division-SCV," and mail to Texas Division Sons of Confederate Veterans, c/o Lt. Commander Granvel Block, 1604 Buckingham Dr., Orange, Texas 77632. For more information, contact Granvel Block Lt. Commander of the Texas Division at granvelb@gt.rr.com

or at his cell phone # (409) 779-6657. You can also make a donation online at https://www.bricksrus.com/order/texasdivscv/index.php

Texas Heritage Society Meeting - June 17, 2010 Dr. Gregg Dimmick

2010-06-17T09:47:00.005-05:00

"The Archeology of the Mexican Army in Texas" will be Texas historian and archeologist Gregg Dimmick's topic of discussion at the next meeting of the Texas Heritage Society on June 17, 2010. The meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m at 18 West Shaker Court in The Woodlands, Texas. Refreshments will be served starting at 6:00 p.m.

Beginning with his work with the "Sea of Mud" (El Mar de Lodo) in Wharton County, Dr. Gregg Dimmick has done more to advance our knowledge and understanding of the Mexican Army in Texas during the Texas Revolution than any other historian or archeologist before him. He has performed archeological digs at numerous historical sites around Texas including the "Sea of Mud," the San Jacinto Battleground, the Fannin Battleground, and Madame Powell's Tavern. Dimmick is a member of the Houston Archeological Society, Texas State Historical Commission, and a member of the Board of Directors of the Friends of the San Jacinto Battleground.

Gregg Dimmick is the author of the highly acclaimed book, Sea of Mud, which completly modified our perception of the retreating Mexican Army following the Battle of San Jacinto. He is also the editor of General Filisola's Analysis of Jose Urrea's Military Diary which has also shed considerable light on this period in Texas history.

The Texas Heritage Society informs us that Dr. Dimmick will be bringing copies of his books to sell and sign. Hope to see you there.

David Crockett in Congress Wins IPPY Award

2010-06-16T09:28:00.011-05:00

In February, I had the opportunity to review David Crockett in Congress: The Rise and Fall of the Poor Man's Friend by James R. Boylston and Allen J. Wiener (Bright Sky Press, 2009). We have just been advised that David Crockett in Congress has just received a 2010 Independent Publisher's Book Award for Best Regional Non-Fiction.

For fourteen years the Independent Publisher Book Awards have been conducted annually to honor the year's best independently published titles. The "IPPY" Awards reward those who exhibit the courage, innovation, and creativity to bring about change in the world of publishing.

David Crockett in Congress is the first significant new biography of the famous frontier congressman and Alamo martyr in over a half a century. Crockett emerges as a savvy politician, hardball campaigner and advocate for the poor. The book is based on Crockett's own writings and other original documents and appends all of his surviving correspondence, political circulars and key speeches.

Congratulations to the authors, Boylston and Wiener, for their much deserved recognition for this important and detailed work on the life of David Crockett. I continue to recommend this book very highly to anyone looking for a better understanding of David Crockett and/or the Jacksonian age.

Clayton Library Hours of Operation

2010-06-10T12:06:00.008-05:00

With thousands of books, microfilm and microfiche, the finest genealogical research facility in southeast Texas is the Clayton Library Center for Genealogical Research in Houston, Texas. As it is part of the Houston Public Library System, the Clayton Library is free and open to the general public. Recently, the Clayton Library changed its hours of operation and will no longer be open on Mondays.

The new hours of operation for the Clayton Library as of June 14, 2010 are:

CLAYTON LIBRARY HOURS

Monday - CLOSED
Tuesday - 10:00 A.M. - 6 P.M.
Wednesday - 10:00 A.M. - 8 P.M.
Thursday - 10:00 A.M. - 6 P.M.
Friday - 10:00 A.M. - 5 P.M.
Saturday - 10:00 A.M. - 5 P.M.
Sunday - CLOSED

The Clayton Library Center for Genealogical Research is located at 5300 Caroline, Houston, Texas. As the hours of operation have been changing frequently lately, be sure and call the Clayton Library before you go at 832-393-2600. For the locations and hours of other Houston Public Libraries call 832-393-1313,

Daughters of the Republic of Texas, "The Vision," Republic of Texas History Complex

2010-05-23T20:20:00.011-05:00

By consolidating the activities of The Daughters of the Republic of Texas and The Republic of Texas Museum in one location in downtown Austin adjacent to the historic French Legation Museum, The Daughters of the Republic of Texas will be able to create the Republic of Texas History Complex. The Republic of Texas History Complex will provide a larger, more appropriate setting for exhibitions, educational programs, family gatherings, conferences and public festivals. In this way, the DRT will better serve the State of Texas and visitors seeking to learn about and appreciate the rich and fascinating history of the State of Texas.

The Daughters of the Republic of Texas currently provide educational programs on Texas history for children of all ages and other special groups, in a building located in North Austin near the overpass at the intersection of U. S. Highway 183 and Interstate Highway 35. This is also the site of its daily business operations and The Republic of Texas Museum. Originally commercial in nature, the building was not designed as a museum. It is difficult for visitors to locate, and does not have adequate parking for school buses and larger numbers of visitors.

The French Legation grounds on historic Robertson Hill have been managed since 1949 by the Daughters of The Republic of Texas, and as a musem since 1956. The site is centrally located near downtown Austin at 802 San Marcos Street. A new building called the Republic of Texas history Center will be constructed on adjacent property. The Center will house the DRT Business Office and Republic of Texas Museum. It will be designed in keeping with the historic nature of the location. In addition, some existing spaces will be rearranged for improved public access, and more parking will be provided.

The Republic of Texas History Complex will contain new and existing areas:

Vistor Center, including a Viewing Theatre
Republic of Texas Museum (relocated)
French Legation Museum
Gift Shop
Children's Interactive Museum (relocated)
Business Office (relocated)
State-of-the-Art Texas Family Research Center
Meeting and Conference Accommodations
Expanded Parking

The Daughters of the Republic of Texas are rasing money for this project with their program called A Vision for the 21st Century. A Vision for the 21st Century is intended to help The Daughters of the Republic of Texas more effectively achieve their mission which includes the following goals:

To perpetuate the memory and spirit of those who achieved and maintained the independence of Texas.
To provide educational programs of the highest caliber in close cooperation with school districts, as well as ongoing educational programs for the general public.
To encourage research into early Texas records, preserve historic documents, and encourage the publication of historic records.
To secure and memorialize historic sites.

You can help. A Vision for the 21st Century's budget is $9.5 million. Of this amount, approximately $1 million will be provided from the sale of the DRT's North Austin building and charitable donations, already made. This leaves $8.5 million to raise to attain their Vision. Included are funds for land acquisition, construction, reprogramming exhibits, and endowment for long-term maintenance. Name recognition will be available for donors of $10,000 and more. For more information, contact Lana Boussidan, DRT Administrator at 512-339-1997.

The Daughters of the Republic of Texas Campaign

510 East Anderson Lane

Austin, Texas 78752

Email: lana.boussidan@drtmuseum.org

Website: http://www.drt-inc.org/

Three Projects at the San Jacinto State Historic Site

2010-05-19T09:31:00.005-05:00

This article was written by Steven K. Howell for the Spring 2010 editon of "The Dreadnought" the newsletter of the Battleship Texas Foundation and appears with his permission.

There are three significant projects in process at the San Jacinto State Historic Site. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is working on the Visitor Information Center; the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and the Battleship Texas Foundation are working jointly on the Dry Berth Project; and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and the Battleship Texas Foundation are also working jointly on the Wharf and Amenities Project. Details on each of these projects are presented below.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is working on the construction of a permanent Visitor Information Center at the San Jacinto State Historic Site. Five sites are under consideration, including two sites close to the location of the Texas. Public hearings have been heard to solicit input from interested parties regarding this Center. As planned the Visitor Information Center will provide a focal point for helping visitors to the Park to understand the Battle of San Jacinto, the Battleground, the San Jacinto Museum of History as well as the Battleship Texas. The Battleship Texas Foundation looks forward to working with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department as the Visitor Information Center Project moves forward. Funding for the Center comes from a Federal grant.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department continues to negotiate a contract with the top bidder for the Dry Berth Project. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department received written proposals from interested consultants in late 2009 and received in-person proposals from the top five bidders during November and December. The successful bidder will take on the responsibility to design and engineer the dry berth and to meet environmental compliance requirements for the construction of a permanent dry berth for the Texas. Funding for the Dry Berth Project comes from $25 million in voter-approved Bonds, suplemented by $4 million raised by the Battleship Texas Foundation.

As the Visitor Information Center Project has continued to develop, the Battleship Texas Foundation has modified the components of its Wharf and Amenities Project to coordinate with and be compatible with the Visitor Information Center. The Battleship Texas Foundation has prepared and presented revised designs to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and, once they are reviewed and accepted, the designs will be presented to the Battleship Texas Foundation Members and financial supporters. At this point in the design process, the Wharf and Amenities will be located on the north side of the existing slip. When constructed, this will permit two existing parking lots (to the south and to the east of the ship) to be removed; and this will allow additional interpretation of of the Battleground. The Amenities building is designed to include a staging area for the Overnight Education Program, a dedicated shop and restoration space for the First Texas Volunteers, a covered open-air space for the interpretation of large exhibits and new restrooms.

Many thanks to the members of the Texas Legislature, as well as to a host of other elected officials, who continue to be advocates for the preservation, restoration and presentation of the world's last dreadnought-type battleship through their continued support of the Dry Berth Project.

Click here for more information on the Battleship Texas Foundation at their web site.

2010 Texian Navy Day

2010-05-12T11:53:00.009-05:00

David Hanover has provided some preliminary information regading the 2010 Texian Navy Day. The 2010 Texian Navy Day ceremony will be sponsored by the Sons of the Republic of Texas and will take place on September 18, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. This year's ceremony will honor the Secretary of the Republic of Texas Navy, S. Rhoads Fisher and the Republic of Texas Navy. The ceremony will be held in the Matagorda Cemetery in Matagorda, Texas. For more information, Texian Navy Day Chairman, David Hanover, can be reached at 903-509-2206 or dhanover@suddenlink.net Also check http://www.srttexas.org/ for any other changes.

Texas Heritage Society - June 2010 Meeting Historian Gregg Dimmick "The Archeology of the Mexican Army in Texas"

2010-05-10T18:20:00.003-05:00

The May meeting of the Texas Heritage Society is scheduled for June 17, 2010 at 6:30 p.m. The meeting will be held at 18 West Shaker Court in The Woodlands. The June meeting will feature Texas historian Gregg Dimmick. His topic will be "The Archeology of the Mexican Army in Texas."

Dr. Dimmick is a pediatrician in Wharton, Texas whose avocation for many years has been archeology. Beginning with his work with the "Sea of Mud" in Wharton County, Gregg Dimmick has done more to advance our understanding of the history of the Texas Revolution than any other historian in recent years. Dr. Dimmick is a member of the Board of Directors of the Friends of the San Jacinto Battleground and the Wharton County Museum.

Dimmick is the author of the highly acclaimed book, Sea of Mud, which completely modified our understanding of the retreating Texas Army following the Battle of San Jacinto. He is also the editor of General Filisola's Analysis of Jose Urrea's Military Diary which has also shed considerable light on this period in Texas history.

Texas Independence Web Site

2010-05-10T17:21:00.009-05:00

In a collaborative project, the Star of the Republic Museum and the Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site together with a number of sponsors and contributors have poduced an interactive web site for children and all students of Texas history around the world.

The promotional literature for the new "Texas Independence" web site provides the following information:

"Independence, Freedom and Democracy...What more important concepts can we teach our children? These crucial concepts were the motivation behind the convention held at Washington-on-the-Brazos, the Birthplace of Texas, in early March 1836. Texas was in turmoil, as fifty-nine elected delegates met to sign the Texas Declaration of Independence from Mexico. Discover what motivated them to take this bold and unprecedented step for democracy at:

http://txindependence.org/

Students are immersed in the story of Texas Independence. Fun, educational activities, designed to complement both the 4th and 7th grade TEKS, include:

The Independence Story in 92 Seconds - an animated, action-packed overview.
In Washington Town - a 3D game which lets students interact with the citizens in 1836.
Convention Comicmaker - a fun activity which allows students to create their own story.
Timeline of Independence - notable events that led to the formation of the Republic of Texas.
Behind the Grievances - an interactive look at the Declaration of Independence based on primary sources.
Delegate Connection - a searchable database with key information about the delegates.
Primary Sources - a searchable collection of primary artifacts and documents.
Teachers Resources - lesson plans, TEKS correlation, activities and resources.

To learn more about Old Washington and the signing of the Texas Declaration of Independence, see this interesting new web site.

Albert Sidney Johnston Camp No. 67 Meeting - May 19, 2010

2010-05-10T11:07:00.003-05:00

The Albert Sidney Johnston Camp #67, Houston, Texas, will be holding their monthly meeting Wednesday, May 19, 2010. Mark Vogl will be making a presentation about "The Life and Times of Lt. Dick Dowling, CSA."The Albert Sidney Johnston Chapter of the Sons of Confederate Veterans meets at The Briar Club located at Westheimer and Timmons Lane in Houston, Texas. There will be an Executive Board meeting beginning at 5:30 p.m. (all camp members in good standing are invited to attend the Executive Board meeting). A happy hour-cash bar will follow at 6:30 p.m. The dinner and Camp Meeting will follow at 7:00 p.m. Please R.S.V.P. to Ev Gardner at 281-980-9054 or Dodd Eastham at dodd@bayoudog.org

2010-05-07T07:45:00.008-05:00

On May 6, 2010, the Conroe City Council voted unanimously to release bids for the construction of the Lone Star Monument and Historical Flag Park.

The Lone Star Monument and Historical Flag Park has been designed with a number of different elements to celebrate Texas and Montgomery County history. In the center of the park will be a life-sized bronze monument. The bronze monument will represent common man who volunteered to serve in the Texas Revolutionary Army to win and preserve Texas Independence. The bronze statue of the Texas Revolutionary Soldier will be holding the Lone Star Flag on a flag pole. The flag will also be made of bronze. In front of the monument will be a bronze plaque inscribed "The Texian."

Behind the monument, on flag poles, will fly several different flags significant to the Texas Revolution and to Texas as an independent nation. At the base of each flag pole will be a plaque that describes the flag and its place in Texas history.

At the entrance to the park will be a four-sided granite stand with a bronze bust of Charles B. Stewart. A biography of Stewart and directions to Montgomery, Texas where Stewart spent most of his adult life will be inscribed on this monument. Many historians credit Charles B. Stewart with the design of the Lone Star Flag of Texas in 1839 while residing in the Town of Montgomery then the county seat of Montgomery County, Texas.

The stated purpose of the park is to serve as an educational tool for the citizens of Texas, to become a source of local pride and inspiration for Montgomery, County; and to enhance heritage tourism by being a point of destination for the great number of tourists that pass through that area daily.

For more informaiton about the Lone Star Monument and Historical Flag Park, go to: http://www.texasflagpark.org/park.htm

Madam Powell Marker Re-Dedicated

2010-05-03T09:23:00.019-05:00

A Centennial Marker dedicated to Madam Powell in 1936 was re-dedicated on Saturday, May 1, 2010. This marker had been knocked down over the years and the Texas Star had been removed by vandals. The San Jacinto Chapter of the Sons of the Republic of Texas took a leading role in the repair and cleaning of the Madam Powell 1936 marker. Jack Wendt, who now owns the property, up-righted the marker and improved the road to the marker site.

The Master of Ceremonies for the ceremony was Tom Green. Curt Osborne, Chaplain of the San Jacinto Chapter of the Sons of the Republic of Texas led the invocation. Sam Clark, KSJ, the President General of the Sons of the Republic of Texas, led the pledge to the United States flag. Ron Brown, the President of San Jacinto Chapter #1 led the pledge to the Texas flag.

Jack Wendt then provided the history of the land that the Elizabeth Powell marker is located on going back to the original Mexican land grant and tracing the history of the ownership of the land to the present. Bert Bleil, the Chairman of the Ft. Bend County Historical Commission also spoke and welcomed everyone on behalf of the Ft. Bend County Historical Commission. Charles Sadnick, III, Historian with the Texas Historical Commission spoke about the history of the 1936 Centennial markers and the importance of efforts such as this one to preserve Texas history.

Several descendants of Elizabeth Powell were then introduced. Some of the Powell descendants had come all the way from Louisiana to be here for the re-dedication of the marker. Descendants of Elizabeth Powell included Frank and Vickie Deffes, and their son Frank and his wife, Alicia.

Keynote speaker, Dr. Gregg Dimmick, spoke about his archeological investigation of the Madam Powell site several years ago. His archeological investigation confirmed that the Mexican Army camped at the location where the Madam Powell marker was erected in 1936. Dr. Dimmick believes that the site of the Madam Powell marker marks a critical location in the history of Texas.

It was at this site, following the defeat of the Mexican Army at San Jacinto, that all the Mexican Generals met to decide what to do next. Should they take the large combined army they had (about 2500 and about 1,500 camp followers) and go after the much smaller Texas Army (about 800), or should they retreat. They decided to retreat to two towns within Texas. Shortly after leaving Powell's Tavern, it began to rain and the Mexican Army got stuck in what became known as the "Sea of Mud" or "El Mar de Lodo" near present day town of Wharton, Texas. It took the Mexican Army two weeks to extract itself from the mud. Having lost much of their supplies, General Filisola the commander of the Mexican Army decided to retreat across the Rio Grande River.

Had the Mexican Generals decided to take the attack to the much smaller Texian Army, Texas history would probably have been much different.

The up-righted, restored and cleaned marker was then unveiled by SRT President General Sam Clark and San Jacinto Chapter President Ron Brown while members of the Sons of the Republic of Texas (David Martin, Tom Houston, Carl Hill, and Dale Williamson) in 1836 period attire fired several black-powder rifle salutes.

Mr. and Mrs. Jack Wendt then welcomed everyone into their home for refreshments following the re-dedication ceremony.

SITE OF THE HOME OF

ELIZABETH POWELL

BUILT BEFORE MARCH 21, 1831, WHEN
THE LAND WAS GRANTED TO HER. THIS
POINT MARKS THE MOST EASTERN
ADVANCE OF URREA'S ARMY AND THE
MOST SOUTHERN ADVANCE OF SANTA
ANNA, WHO TURNED EAST FROM HERE
TO THE BRAZOS AND SAN JACINTO.
HERE THE MEXICAN ARMY ENCAMPED
AFTER THE BATTLE OF SAN JACINTO

Erected by the State of Texas
1936

For more information on Madam Powell and the archeological investigation conducted by Gregg Dimmick, see Chapter Four of the book Sea of Mud. All photos courtesy of David L. Martin and K. K. Searle.

Bevill Recieves Summerfield G. Roberts Award for Paper Republic

2010-04-27T08:56:00.004-05:00

On Saturday, April 10, 2010, at the 88th Annual Meeting of the Sons of the Republic of Texas held in Tyler, Texas, James P. Bevill received the prestigious Summerfield G. Roberts Award for his book, The Paper Republic: The Struggle for Money, Credit and Independence in the Republic of Texas. The Summerfield G. Roberts Award is awarded by the Sons of the Republic of Texas for excellence in Texas historical literature and also includes a cash award of $2,500.

The Son of the Republic of Texas describe the Summerfield G. Roberts Award as follows:

"The purpose of this award is to encourage literary effort and research about historical events and personalities during the days of the Republic of Texas, 1836-1846, and to stimulate interest in this period. The judges will determine which entry best portrays the spirit, character, strength and deeds of those who lived in the Republic of Texas."

Because of his use of so many new primary sources, we are huge fans of Bevill's book. Click here to see our review of The Paper Republic. The first printing of The Paper Republic in September of 2009 was such a huge success, Jim Bevill has advised us that The Paper Republic is already being prepared by his publisher Bright Sky Press for a second printing.

The photo above was taken at an earlier time when Bevill presented a signed copy of The Paper Republic to former First Lady Barbara Bush. Left to right: James P. Bevill, Barbara Bush, and Jodie Bevill.

David Hill San Jacinto Veteran Memorial Ceremony

2010-04-27T08:38:00.003-05:00

On Saturday May 29, 2010 at 2:00 p.m., the San Saba River Chapter of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas and the Family of David Hill will be conducting a veteran memorial ceremony for David Hill's service at the Battle of San Jacinto. The ceremony will be held at Bluffton Cemetery in Llano County, Texas. The speaker will be historian, Karylon Halmark "Bitsy" Russell. The ceremony will be presented by the San Saba River Daughters of the Republic of Texas (DRT). There will be light refreshments and visitation from 1:00-2:00 p.m.

Directions: From Llano take TX 29 E to RR 2241, Bluffton Cemetery on your left about 11 miles. From Burnet take 29 W 13 miles to CR 261-Lakeshore DR. 8 miles to Bluffton stay on 2241 2.5 miles cemetery on right.

For more information contact Louise Barton Sanders at 512-752-3400 or email at lsanders8@wildblue.net .

Rolling Thunder

2010-04-20T19:30:00.016-05:00

Fred Mead has been kind enough to share some of the history of the famed Texas cannon, Rolling Thunder, with the Texas History Page. He writes:

The historic Texas cannon, Rolling Thunder, has changed handlers recently. Rolling Thunder is a 3/4 scale firing replica of an 1841 Mississippi or Tennessee field cannon. There is some argument as to which state claims the design. But no matter, it is more often referred to as a "field piece" and was usually towed by horses way back then together with a following "limber box" with its own axle. Today, the "limber box" is much smaller and contains all the supplies that the multiple members of the gun crew use: large gloves, friction primers, and all the multitude of miscellaneous items that it takes to make the gun charges as well as the special effects often used and safety items.

Rolling Thunder was made about 20+ years ago, machined from a solid piece of oilfield steel by a local machinist working at home in his off-hours. Some friends from San Jacinto Chapter #1 of the historic organization, The Sons of the Republic of Texas, formed a partnership among the 3 or 4 of them: Richard (Dick) Reese, Jr., Sam Clark, Tom Houston, and Leonard Cloud. They purchased the gun barrel, then had the wooden carriage built to fit the barrel and found some antique wagon wheels, which were at the time, about 130 years old and that had been used on overland wagons carrying settlers West to explore America.

These gentlemen put all this together and had themselves a great field piece and began carrying it around Texas to help celebrate the anniversaries of Texas holidays and other important historic dates and events in Texas history. Rolling Thunder was also used to help teach Texas history which is one of the cornerstones of the mission of the Sons of the Republic of Texas. While the SRT does not sponsor Rolling Thunder, all these men are members of the SRT and have displayed and fired Rolling Thunder to celebrate Texas history as individual members of Texas Volunteers or Texas Army. They took Rolling Thunder all over the state for various purposes, parades, displays, and firing demonstrations for more than 18 years.

The individual owners of Rolling Thunder decided that based upon their personal activities and the demands on their time from family, professions and age that they would look around for a new generation of men to step forward and take on the tasks and traditions they began. The Conroe area Chapter of the Sons of the Republic of Texas, Lone Star Chapter #58, had three members who stepped forward and took on the ownership and responsibility of carrying on these important traditions already begun for Rolling Thunder.

Charlie Fogarty from the Steamboat House Restaurant, Mike Wilson from a local energy company, and Fred Mead from his own construction related business, stepped up to the plate and took on the task. They called upon additional friends from their Chapter and the San Jacinto Chapter of the SRT to become members of their Rolling Thunder gun crew and have begun displaying and firing the cannon. They had their first chance to learn to fire Rolling Thunder three weeks ago when Dick Reese and Sam Clark took them out to some vacant land and ran through some safety drills and the proper handling of the cannon. They also learned how to make the charges that are the ammunition for the cannon. This past weekend, a special cannon school was held at the George Ranch to get the gun crew certified as "Cannoneers." This is a State and Federal requirement to display and fire the cannon on the lands belonging to State and Federal parks.

In its career, Rolling Thunder, has been in parades all over Texas in many communities. It has fired at ceremonial activities at Washington on the Brazos, the Alamo, the Presidio La Bahia at Goliad, the San Jacinto Battleground, and many other historic and civic locations around Houston and other areas too numerous to list here. Rolling Thunder is a true Texas native and part of our history. It might be relatively young but it represents over 150 years of Texas history and spirit. Look for Rolling Thunder when you next go to a historic place or event in Texas.

Rolling Thunder is a 3/4 scale cannon. It was built from specifications of what is called a 6 pounder cannon, so Rolling Thunder is actually a 4 pounder with a 2.25" bore. It is about 4' long, 4' tall, has 4' tall wheels, and 6' trail piece. It has its own trailer it rides on from place to place. When it is not being displayed or fired somewhere, Rolling Thunder is on display at the Steamboat House Restaurant in Houston, Texas along with other beautiful and historic items and artifacts of Texas history for visitors to view and enjoy. It is referred to as a "black powder" cannon. It is fired using a "friction primer" so it can be fired with a lanyard rather than lighting it with a fuse which is much safer for all. It has been used to fire projectiles 3/4 of a mile or further. Rolling Thunder has fired many different types of loads, including some for fun (such as colored smoke) and some for special tasks. These types of cannons are very powerful, quite loud and produce a lot of smoke.

In the photo above, left to right, Fred Mead and Mike Wilson stand with Rolling Thunder. Photo courtesy of K. K. Searle. In the video above, Rolling Thunder is fired by a cannon crew composed of Charlie Fogarty, Fred Mead, Mike Wilson, John Homman and K. K. Searle. Instructor, Jerry Tubbs has placed a steak over the fuse hole to show the dangers of being near the fuse hole when the cannon is fired. Video courtesy of Linley Johnson.

Master Mason Degree - Battleship USS Texas

2010-04-19T08:59:00.003-05:00

All Texas Master Masons are invited to observe a unique and historic Master Mason's Degree aboard the battleship USS TEXAS BB-35 on April 23, 2010. Frontier Lodge No. 28 has been given the opportunity to present this historic Masonic event. This will be joint degree conferred by Frontier Lodge No. 28 and Garden Oaks Lodge No. 1306.

The date and time again: Friday, April 23, 2010, 7:30 p.m. Please note that you may want to arrive early as chairs are limited. Click here for more information on the Battleship Texas.

See maps and directions to the Battleship Texas here.

Re-Dedication of 1936 Madam Powell Historical Marker Set for May 1, 2010

2010-04-08T08:26:00.005-05:00

The public is invited to attend the re-dedication of the Texas State Historical Marker originally placed where the Mexican Army met at Madam Powell's Tavern after learning of the Texian victory at San Jacinto. After learning of the defeat of General Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, General Vicente Filisola, second in command of the Mexican Army, ordered the other Mexican Generals all to meet him at Madam Powell's Tavern for a council of war, which was held from April 24 through April 26, 1836.

Instead of moving the remaining two or three thousand man army on across the Brazos River and attacking General Sam Houston's Texian Army, the Mexican Generals decided to fall back to the west side of the Colorado River and wait for orders from their government. If these Mexican Generals had decided to attack the Texian Army instead of withdraw, our history might be considerably different. As the huge Mexican Army began their retreat, the rear guard is believed to have burned Madam Powell's Tavern.

The San Jacinto Chapter of the Sons of the Republic of Texas believes this is an important event in Texas history and they will host a ceremony starting at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 1, 2010 to re-dedicate the marker that was placed at the site of Elizabeth Powell's home as part of the massive state wide project in 1936 to mark all historic sites in the state. Dr. Gregg Dimmick will be the featured speaker, and Bob Brinkman with the Texas Historical Commission will tell us about the history of the 1936 marker program. Everyone interested in Texas history is invited to join them.

The marker is located near the crossing of Turkey Creek in the middle of Mr. Jack Wendt's cattle ranch, and was knocked down by cows some years back. Mr. Wendt uprighted the 1936 marker and the San Jacinto SRT Chapter has replaced the missing lone star on the marker and cleaned the years of grime from the granite marker. Mr. Wendt has also greatly improved the road through his farm to the marker, and has vounteered the use of his onsite ranch building for a reception after the re-dedication ceremony.

Directions and Contact Information-

To reach the site of the ceremony, proceed southwest from Houston on Highway 59 to the town of Kendleton, Texas. As you exit at the Kendleton exit, make a "U" turn and drive back toward Houston on the access road for about one mile to Darst Road, where you turn right and continue until you cross the bridge over Turkey Creek. The next farm entrance on the left is the entrance to Jack Wendt's farm and ranch, where signs will direct you to the ceremony. For other details, contact Tom Green at (281) 922-1118 or his cell phone at (832) 687-3474.

Photos showing Elizabeth Powell marker on ground missing lone star at the beginning of the preservation process are all courtesy of Dale Williamson.

Julia Ideson Library - Archival Wing and Reading Garden Opening April 5, 2010

2010-04-04T08:56:00.006-05:00

On Monday, April 5, 2010, the new archival wing and reading garden of the Julia Ideson Library in Houston, Texas will be opening.

The Julia Ideson Library has been undergoing extensive preservation and extension during the past year. The Julia Ideson Library Preservation Partners thanks the City of Houston/Downtown Redevelopment Authority TIRZ #3 and the hundreds of individuals, foundations, and corporations who have helped them raise more than $30.1 million to date.

Phase I of the expansion and restoration of the Julia Ideson Library, the construction of the new archival wing for the invaluable holdings of the Houston Public Library's Houston Metropolitan Center, will open on April 5, 2010. Please come and visit the HMRC as well as the adjacent palm-shaded reading garden and open-air loggia (entrance at the corner of Smith and Lamar Streets). For hours of operation call 832-393-1313. For more information on the Houston Metropolitan Research Center and its archives visit http://www2.houstonlibrary.org/hmrc/index.html .

Phase II of the $32 million project, the restoration of both the exterior and the beautiful and architecturally significant interiors of the original 1926 building at 500 McKinney designed by Ralph Adams Cram, is now underway and expected to be complete by Summer of 2011. For more information on the project, or to make a tax-deductible contribution to Phase II, visit http://www.ideson.org/ or call Julia Ideson Library Preservation Partners executive director, Margaret Lawler, at 713-660-0772.

Save Texas History Symposium

2010-03-31T19:46:00.005-05:00

Mark your calenders for the inaugural Save Texas History Symposium in Austin, Texas on Saturday, November 6, 2010. The topic of the symposium will be "Discovering Spanish and Mexican Texas." The Save Texas History Symposium will be hosted by Commissioner Jerry Patterson and the Texas General Land Office. The symposium will be held at 1700 North Congress Avenue in Austin, Texas between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. The Save Texas History Symposium is only $25 per person. To register, call 1-800-998-4GLO or email: archives@glo.state.tx.us .

There will be plenty to do at the symposium:

Survey downtown Austin with a real-life survey team
Learn tips to research your family tree
Visit the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum
Tour the Texas General Land Office Archives - See original signatures of Stephen F. Austin and other Texas heroes
Make handcrafted paper from old fashioned materials
Print your own map on an antique iron hand printing press

Guest speakers will include Texas State Historian Dr. Light Cummins, former Texas State Historian Dr. Frank de la Teja, and Dr. Felix D. Almaraz. Click here to read more about the Save Texas History Symposium.

The Texas General Land Office Archives was created after the Texas Revolution when Sam Houston directed the first land commissioner, John P. Borden, to collect all available land records defining the new Republic. These valuable documents, now housed in temperature- and access-controlled vaults, are used daily by genealogists, historians, archeologists, surveyors and anyone interested in Texas history. For more information about the Texas General Land Office Archives go to http://www.glo.state.tx.us/archives/archives.html . For more information about what you can do to help save Texas history, go to http://www.glo.state.tx.us/OC/savetxhist/index.html .

Memorial to General Carroll A. "Curly" Lewis, Jr. of the Texas Army

2010-03-29T16:59:00.013-05:00

The following is from the memorial service brochure for General Carroll A. “Curly” Lewis, Jr. held on January 20, 2010 at the San Jacinto Monument at 2:00 p.m.

GENERAL CARROLL "Curly" LEWIS, JR. left this world January 7, 2010. Born February 3, 1924 in Houston, Texas, he was known at an early age as the Poet Laureate of Poe Elementary School. This was not the end of his literary career for he late wrote numerous magazine and newspaper articles, a definitive history of Fort Anahuac (The Birthplace of the Texas Revolution), enjoyed the fifth printing of his popular book The Treasures of Galveston Bay and is included in the American Diaries of WWII

Also excelling in art, when attending Lanier Junior High School, he won a four year art scholarship at the Houston Museum of Fine Arts. At Lamar Senior High School he formed his own twelve-piece dance band and was the founding president of the MAC (Make Action Count) Club – a quasi fraternity. While studying chemical engineering at Rice Institute, he continued his musical activities with the Rice Band and the Knight Owls dance orchestra.

When World War II interrupted, he flew twenty five missions as a B-17 bomber pilot in the Eighth Air force; being shot down twice over Nazi Germany

Returning to Rice he was founding president of the Rice Veteran’s Association, Student Council chairman, re-organized and led the Knight Owls dance orchestra, ansd was of the Rice Owl band where his outrageous innovations created a spirit that was thereafter adopted by the MOB (Marching Owl Band). There is a legend at Rice University, that one Friday afternoon, before a Rice / A & M football game, Lewis secretly flew an airplane from Houston to College Station and dropped a large stink bomb and one hundred pounds of rice on an Aggie pep rally. The 1947 Rice yearbook shows photos of the mission.

Before graduating from college he began investing in land; eventually developing the following subdivisions in the Houston Area of Memorial Estates, Shady Oaks, Karankawa Pines, Richmond Road Farms, Shamrock Estates, Battleground Vista, Belknap Acres, Braeburn Gardens, Pinegrove Valley, Lomax Gardens, Greendale, Richmond Road Estates, Skyview Farms, Captains Retreat, Pirate’s Grove and Battleground Estates.

A former Eagle Scout, he served as scoutmaster with Boy Scout Troop l1 Airscouts and Girl Scout Troop 116 and as a council director of Sam Houston Area Council Boy Scouts of America. He was a Sunday School teacher, officer and choir member of First Presbyterian Church of Galveston, and the United Church of Idaho Springs, Colorado, and chairman of the Greater Houston Presbyterian Extension committee of the Brazos Presbytery. A 32^nd degree Scottish Rite Mason, he played in the Arabia Temple Shrine Drum and Bugle Corps. Band. Early in his life, he served on the Board of Directors of the YMCA camps.

A business degree from the University of Houston guided him to other interests such as building and operating the Post Oak Twin Drive-in Theater, a Giant Slide, and Movie land Golf – a 36-hole miniature golf course where each hole represented a famous movie. He was president of the Southwestern Historical Exploration Society and in 1968 directed its recovery of many Civil War artifacts out of the Buffalo Bayou in downtown Houston. Leading another exploration in 1968, he discovered Puritan Pilgrim fortifications on the Caribbean Islands of Santa Catalina that had been lost from history for over 300 years. He wrote many articles for True West, Treasure World, and Treasure magazines, and had a weekly shooting sports column for Citizen newspapers.

In1969, he convinced Governor Preston Smith to reactivate the Texas Army, which had been inactive since 1845, and was appointed Commanding General in which capacity he served for 40 years. He was well known for his impersonation of General Sam Houston on television, the news media and at public events. Curly was dedicated to perpetuating the memory of early Texas heroes; as one journalist put it, “The General keeps Texas’ past alive!” A consummate hunter, fisherman and sailor, his large Texas flag mainsail was frequently seen on Galveston Bay – Curly loved all things Texan. Since retirement, he enjoyed monthly meetings with his Lamar ’41 classmates and singing and playing drums every Wednesday night with the jazz group known as the Over The Hill Gang.

He is survived by his wife Candace Frazier, daughter Marsha Blake, grandchildren Jordan and Sawyer Ross.

The service will be at 2:00 p.m. on January 20, 2010 at the San Jacinto Monument (Auditorium) the General Staff of the Texas Army will conduct a public ceremony of remembrances and celebration of the General's life. Dressed in 1836 attire, the Texas Army will perform full military honors; firing a 21-gun salute using cannon and flintlock rifles. The United States Air Force Funeral Detail will also fire a salute and execute its flag presentation ceremony. Officiating will be Rev. Joe Hause and Rev. John W. Lancaster will close with the benediction. The family has requested donations to the Texas Army War Chest in lieu of flowers. For Information, please email Col. John Martin at Coljwm@gmail.com .

Photo of of Governor Preston Smith reactivating the Texas Army in 1969 (l. to r. unknown Texas Army soldier, Governor Preston Smith and General "Curly" Lewis). This photo is from the collection of K. K. Searle.

Houston: 1860 - 1900 (Images of America)

2010-03-22T12:11:00.011-05:00

Review of Houston: 1860 - 1900 by Ann Dunphy Becker

Review by K. K. Searle

Another wonderful pictorial history from Arcadia Publishing and their Images of America Series. This history takes the City of Houston from the period just before the Civil War to the beginning of the 20th century. The book's author, Ann Dunphy Becker, has illustrated Houston: 1860-1900 with hundreds of rare old photographs taken during this unique period in Houston's history. Many of these photographs are from private collections.

Between 1860 and 1900, Houston developed into a major railway center and an international port of call that would allow Houston to eventually become the fourth largest city in the United States of America. With every photograph, author Ann Dunphy Becker has included many fascinating anecdotes and historical details. Houston: 1860 - 1900 is a wonderful visual feast that will transport you back in time to when the City of Houston was young.

2010 San Jacinto Day Ceremony

2010-03-17T09:38:00.005-05:00

You are invited to the official San Jacinto Day Ceremony commemorating the 174th anniversary of the Battle of San Jacinto. This ceremony is celebrated on April 21st every year. This year's ceremony will be held on Wednesday, April 21, 2010 at the San Jacinto Monument on the San Jacinto Battleground beginning at 11:00 a.m.

This year's Principal Speaker will be James L. Haley author of the acclaimed biography, Sam Houston. Ron Stone, Jr. will be the Master of Ceremonies. There will be a prelude by the Deer Park High School Orchestra. The Daughters of the Republic of Texas and the Sons of the Republic of Texas will be presenting the winners of DRT and SRT Scholarships.

The San Jancinto Chapter and the Sam Houston Chapter of the Sons of the Republic of Texas will be presenting their Sailor of the Year Awards. Sam Houston's report of the Battle of San Jacinto will be read. The Texas Army will will fire ceremonial black powder rifle salutes and there will be a wreath laying at the foot of the San Jacinto Monument to honor the memory of those Texian soldiers who fought and died to win Texas' independence from Mexico.

Please R.S.V.P. to help them plan at 713-516-3429.

The Paper Republic - The Struggle for Money, Credit and Independence in the Republic of Texas

2010-03-14T10:31:00.008-05:00

Review of The Paper Republic - The Struggle for Money, Credit and Independence in the Republic of Texas by James P. Bevill
Review by K. K. Searle

James P. Bevill had let it be known several years ago that he was working on a book about the money and finances of the Republic of Texas; and frankly, I was not sure what to expect. Having seen a number of catalogues geared towards paper money collectors, I was not prepared for the groundbreaking scope of Bevill's finished book, The Paper Republic - The Struggle for Money, Credit and Independence in the Republic of Texas.

Almost everyone who has read The Paper Republic has been completely awestruck by what James Bevill has accomplished. What he has done is nothing short of extraordinary. In an era of endless hashing and rehashing of secondary sources by revisionist historians, Bevill went out and dug into a mountain of private Texana collections locked up in dozens of safe deposit boxes across the state - primary sources of new information. Working with other collectors to tell the previously untold story of Texas money, he discovered documents that no one had ever looked at before by looking where no one had thought to look before. What makes this tour de force all the more amazing is that Bevill is not a historian by vocation.

Bevill is a wealth management advisor at UBS in Houston. He is also a numismatist who got interested in collecting Republic of Texas currency as a hobby. Later, he decided to learn everything he could about the Republic of Texas currency that he was collecting but initially found only a vacuum of information on the subject. While trying to learn more about the money of the Republic of Texas, he meticulously researched the Texas Treasury Papers - transcripts of original correspondence from the treasury of the Republic, and compared these letters to the original monetary instruments which were imaged from numerous private collections. While doing so, he began to discover things about the history of the Republic of Texas from primary sources that simply could not be found in any of the previously published histories of Texas.

By researching the money and economy of the Republic of Texas and sharing these findings in his book, Bevill has added a whole new dimension to our understanding of the overall history of the Republic of Texas. The last person to do something like this was another avocational historian, Gregg Dimmick. As you will recall, Dr. Gregg Dimmick is a pediatrician who relied on several overlooked primary sources (diaries and books written by Mexican Army officers who participated in the Texas Revolution). Based on these primary sources, Dimmick began an archeological dig in pasture near Wharton, Texas. His research and discovories presented in his book, Sea of Mud - The Retreat of the Mexican Army after San Jacinto, An Archeological Investigation, added a whole new dimension to everyone's understanding of the Texas Revolution.

Just as Gregg Dimmick's research, his discoveries and his book forced everyone to rethink what they thought they knew about the Texas Revolution; Bevill's book, The Paper Republic, is forcing everyone to rethink what they thought they knew about the social and economic history of the Republic of Texas. Many Texas historians knew the "what" and the "when" concerning many of the events surrounding the Texas Revolution and the history of the Republic of Texas. Now, The Paper Republic explains the "why" of many of these events for the first time.

At 352 pages, The Paper Republic is huge. In addition to the whole new economic dimension he adds to the history of the Republic of Texas, Bevill keeps the reader interested and entertained with many interesting anecdotes and details about early Texas history that are simply found nowhere else.

Richly illustrated with hundreds of high quality digital photographs and scans, James Bevill's book is also one of the most beautiful Texas history books we have ever seen. The Paper Republic is destined to become a classic on the history of the Republic of Texas and is already being widely recognized as such. As an example, the Sons of the Republic of Texas just announced that The Paper Republic is the winner of the 2009 Summerfield G. Roberts Award for Texas historical literature.

I am a huge fan of this book. If you only read one Texas history book this year, get The Paper Republic and read it cover to cover. I promise that you will learn things about the history of Texas that you have never read before. I know I did!

The Paper Republic - The Struggle for Money, Credit and Independence in the Republic of Texas is published by Bright Sky Press, copyright 2009, and is available from Amazon.com.

Battle of San Jacinto Symposium - April 17, 2010

2010-03-12T11:06:00.006-06:00

The 2010 Battle of San Jacinto Symposium will be held Saturday, April 17, 2009, 9:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Hilton Hotel and Conference Center at the University of Houston. This year's theme is Skulls, Slaves, and Sex: Secrets of Early Texas Tickets are $50.00 and include lunch and parking.

This year's symposium will feature the discovery of six skulls of Mexican soldiers slain in the Battle of San Jacinto. In 1837, American naturalist, John James Audubon, visited the San Jacinto battleground. He picked up four skulls of Mexican soldiers and sent them to his friend, Dr. Samuel Morton, in Philadelphia. These, plus other skulls from two other collectors, became part of Morton's world-wide collection of 1500 crania. In 2009, the six Mexican skulls were discovered at the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, virtually unknown to Texas historians for 170 years. Last January, internationally renowned anthropologist Doug Owsley conducted a forensic examination of the Mexican skulls on behalf of the Friends of the San Jacinto Battleground. His findings will be presented publicly for the first time at the 2010 Battle of San Jacinto Symposium.

This year's speakers are: Dr. Ron Tyler will be speaking about Audubon's visit to Galveston, Houston and the San Jacinto Battleground; Dr. Douglas Owsley will discuss Crania Injuries in Mexican Soldiers at San Jacinto; Dr. Andrew J. Torget will discuss slavery and its impact on revolutionary Texas; Professor James W. Paulsen will discuss Sam Houston's legal problems following the break up of his marriage to Eliza Allen in Tennessee and subsequent romance with Anna Raguet of Nacogdoches during the Texas Revolution; and Lael Morgan will discuss Revolutionary Sex: Texas' Philandering Founders.

This year's moderator will be Dr. James E. Crisp, Associate Professor of History at North Carolina Sate University. There will also be a special luncheon presentations by the Hon. William P. Hobby, Jr., Lt. Governor of Texas, 1973-1991; and Dr. Frank de la Teja will comment on his new book, Tejano Leadership in Mexican and Revolutionary Texas.

The Battle of Sam Jacinto Symposium is sponsored by the Friends of the San Jacinto Battleground as a forum for promoting public awareness of the events of the Texas Revolution. For additional information, call (713) 237-8997 or email sjbafriends@earthlink.net .

You can visit the Friends of the San Jacinto Battleground web site: http://www.friendsofsanjacinto.org/
You can also register online for The Battle of San Jacinto Symposium by clicking here.

Photograph: San Jacinto Monument; Courtesy of David Melasky

Are You a Descendant of a Signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence?

2010-03-12T10:31:00.014-06:00

At the celebration of Texas Independence on March 2, 2010 at Washington-on-the-Brazos, it was announced that the Star of the Republic Museum is searching for the descendants of the 59 signers of the Texas Declaration of Independence.

The announcement reads: "The Star of the Republic Museum is launching a long-term genealogical project to identify living descendants of the 59 men who signed the Texas Declaration of Independence here at Washington on the Brazos in 1836. Descendants will be recognized in March 2011 in commemoration of the 175th Anniversary of the signing of the Texas Declaration. If you are a descendant, please fill out a descendant card at the Museum's information desk or the Park Visitors Center."

The Star of the Republic Museum needs your ancestor's name, your name, mailing address, telephone number and email address. For more information contact:

Below is a complete list of the names of the 59 delegates who signed the Texas Declaration of Independence:

Richard Ellis, President of the Convention
Charles B. Stewart
Thos. Barnett
John S. D. Byrom
Francis Ruis
J. Antonio Navarro
Jesse B. Badgett
Wm D. Lacy
William Menifee
Jn. Fisher
Matthew Caldwell
William Motley
Lorenzo de Zavala
Stephen H. Everett
George W. Smyth
Elijah Stapp
Clairborne West
Wm. B. Scates
M. B. Menard
A. B. Hardin
J. W. Burton
Thos. J. Gazley
R. M. Coleman
Sterling C. Robertson
James Collinsworth
Edwin Waller
Asa Brigham
Geo. C. Childress
Bailey Hardeman
Rob. Potter
Thomas Jefferson Rusk
Chas. S. Taylor
John S. Roberts
Robert Hamilton
Collin McKinney
Albert H. Latimer
James Power
Sam Houston
David Thomas
Edwd. Conrad
Martin Parmer
Edwin O. Legrand
Stephen W. Blount
Jms. Gaines
Wm. Clark, Jr.
Sydney O. Pennington
Wm. Carrol Crawford
Jno. Turner
Benj. Briggs Goodrich
G. W. Barnett
James G. Swisher
Jesse Grimes
S. Rhoads Fisher
John W. Moore
John W. Bower
Saml. A. Maverick
Sam P. Carson
A. Briscoe
J. B. Woods

Albert Sidney Johnston Camp #67 - SCV Meeting March 17, 2010

2010-03-12T10:10:00.007-06:00

The Albert Sidney Johnston Camp #67, Houston, Texas, will be holding their monthly meeting Wednesday, March 17, 2010. Charles Duke will be making a presentation about "Civil War Boatworks and Confederate Naval property on Galveston Bay."

The Albert Sidney Johnston Chapter of the Sons of Confederate Veterans meets at The Briar Club located at Westheimer and Timmons Lane in Houston, Texas. There will be an Executive Board meeting beginning at 5:30 p.m. (all camp members in good standing are invited to attend the Executive Board meeting). A happy hour-cash bar will follow at 6:30 p.m. The dinner and Camp Meeting will follow at 7:00 p.m. Please R.S.V.P. to Ev Gardner at 281-980-9054 or Dodd Eastham at dodd@bayoudog.org

Image of "The Johnston Journal" masthead courtesy of Albert Sidney Johnston Camp #67. All rights reserved.

Masonic Oak Picnic - May 16, 2010

2010-03-12T09:23:00.003-06:00

The annual Masonic Oak Picnic will be held May 16, 2010 at 10:00 a.m. Masonic Oak Park is located at 100 Pleasant Street, Brazoria, Texas. See map here. The cost of the meal is $9.00. Registration begins at 9:30 a.m.

In March of 1835, several Master Masons met under an oak tree (that would later become known as the "Masonic Oak") to undertake the establishment of the first regularly formed Masonic lodge in Texas. An application was made to the Grand Lodge of Louisiana for a dispensation to form and open a Masonic lodge. Under a special dispensation, Holland Lodge No. 36 was opened on December 27, 1835 in Brazoria, Texas with Dr. Anson Jones presiding as Worshipful Master. The formal charter granted to Holland Lodge #36 by the Grand Lodge of Louisiana was delivered to Anson Jones just before the Battle of San Jacinto. The charter was in Jones' saddlebags in the Texas camp while Jones fought as a private in the infantry during the Battle of San Jacinto.

For more information about the Masonic Oak picnic, contact Vernon or Fay Burke at 979-297-8986 or fbvb1976@swbell.net

Texas Independence Day Celebration and Chili Cook-off at Pioneer Memorial Log House Museum - February 28, 2010

2010-02-21T14:17:00.019-06:00

Join the San Jacinto Chapter of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas, the Children of the Republic of Texas, the Sons of the Republic of Texas and the Texian Army for a Texas Independence Day Celebration and Chili Cook-off on February 28, 2010 at the Pioneer Memorial Log House Museum. The celebration and cook-off will be held 2:00 p.m. - 5 p.m.

The Pioneer Memorial Log House Museum is located at 1510 Cambridge Street, Hermann Park (formerly North MacGregor Drive) in Houston, Texas. Admission is $5.00 per person, $2.00 under 12 and includes chili, drink and dessert. All proceeds benefit the Pioneer Memorial Log House Museum.

If you wish to compete in the chili cook-off, be sure to bring a crock pot full of your best chili. In addition to the chili cook-off competition, there will also be a children's coloring contest. Children are asked to bring a picture of the Republic of Texas (cowboys and Indians, horses, log houses, etc.). Coloring pages will also be available at the Celebration and the Log House Museum will be decorated with all of the art the children create.

There will also be a period costume contest. Though it is not necessary, all children and adults are encourged to wear period costumes. There will be a children's period costume contest and ribbons will be awarded to all participants. For more information, contact Eron Brimberry Tynes at sjcdrtpres@gmail.com

Texas Independence Day Celebration to be Held on the Steps of Houston City Hall

2010-02-20T18:26:00.024-06:00

On Tuesday, March 2, 2010 at 11:00 a.m., the San Jacinto Chapter of the Sons of the Republic of Texas and the San Jacinto Chapter of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas are co-sponsoring a ceremony on the steps of the Houston City Hall (901 Bagby Street, Houston, Texas) with the City of Houston, to commemorate the 174th anniversary of the signing of the Texas Declaration of Independence.

The Mayor of Houston, Annise Parker, will welcoming everyone and present a proclamation regarding Texas Independence Day. Officials of the Sons and Daughters of The Republic of Texas will be speaking about the impact, the approval, and signing of the Texas Declaration of Independence had in shaping modern day Texas. First Vice President General Sam Clark will read the famous letter from the Alamo by Col. William Barret Travis calling for reinforcements. We will conclude the ceremony by leading everyone in a toast to all those brave men who signed the Texas Declaration of Independence. The toast will be with good old Texas water.

Recognized by state statute as an official state holiday, Texas Independence Day originally began with the signing of the Declaration of Independence by the 56 delegates to the Convention that met at Washington-on-the-Brazos beginning on March 1, 1836. On the first day, Convention President, Richard Ellis, appointed a committee composed of George C. Childress, James Gaines, Edward Conrad, Collin McKinney, and Bailey Hardeman to draft a declaration of independence.

George Childress, the committee chairman, is generally accepted as the author of the Republic of Texas Declaration of Independence, with little help from the other committee members. Since the six-page document was submitted for a vote of the whole convention on the following day, Childress probably already had a draft version of the document with him when he arrived. As the delegates worked, they received regular reports on the ongoing siege on the Alamo by the forces of General Santa Anna's troops.

A free and independent Republic of Texas was officially declared March 2, 1836, when the 56 delegates present—each representing one of the settlements in Texas--- unanimously approving the declaration. The 56 delegated who were present signed the Texas Declaration of Independence on March 3, 1836, and 3 others signed later. After the 59 delegates signed the original declaration, 5 copies were made and dispatched to the designated Texas towns of Bexar, Goliad, Nacogdoches, Brazoria, and San Felipe, and 1,000 copies were ordered printed in handbill form. All but one original copy has been lost over the years.

The Sons of the Republic of Texas and the Daughters of the Republic of Texas are 501(c)(3) organizations whose missions are to perpetuate the memory and spirit of the people who achieved and maintained the independence of Texas and to encourage historical research into the earliest records of Texas, especially those relating to the revolutionary and republic periods. The SRT and DRT encourage the preservation of documents and relics, the publication of historical records and narratives, and the celebration of important days in the state’s history. They also encourage the teaching of Texas history in schools and sponsor numerous scholarships. The public is invited to join us at 11:00a.m. on the front steps (Bagby St. side) of the Houston City Hall to honor those brave men who took that first important step toward making Texas what it is today! For additional details about the celebration, please contact Event Chairman, Tom Green, KSJ at 281-922-1118.

Contact: Sons of The Republic of Texas
Contact Person: Tom Green, KSJ
Telephone Number: (281) 922-1118
Cell Number: (823) 687-3474
Email Address: TBGreen3@prodigy.net
Web Site Address: http://www.srttexas.org

2010 Annual Historic Preservation Conference: Houston April 22-24,

2010-02-17T17:08:00.008-06:00

Mark your calender for April 22-24, 2010 when the Texas Historical Commission in association with Preservation Texas presents the 2010 Annual Historic Preservation Conference. The Annual Historic Preservation Conference will be held at the Westin Oaks Houston Hotel in the Galleria in Houston, Texas. For more information on the Westin Oaks Houston, call 713-960-8100.

The Texas Historical Commission invites you to learn something new, share your experience, network with other professionals and sharpen your skills. The brochure and online registration are now available.

For more information, please contact the Texas Historical Commission at 512-463-6255 or visit
http://www.thc.state.tx.us/annualconference/cof2010.shtml

To read the annual conference brochure click here, http://www.thc.state.tx.us/annualconference/cofpdfs/ac_bro_10.pdf

David Crockett in Congress - The Rise and Fall of the Poor Man's Friend

2010-02-11T12:02:00.032-06:00

Review of David Crockett in Congress: The Rise and Fall of the Poor Man's Friend by James R. Boylston and Allen J. Wiener
Review by K. K. Searle

An excerpt from the April 9, 1836 edition of the Niles Weekly Register (Baltimore, Maryland) provides the now famous account of Davy Crockett's arrival in Texas:

"A gentleman from Nacogdoches, in Texas, informs us, that, whilst there, he dined in public with col. Crockett, who had just arrived from Tennessee. The old bear-hunter, on being toasted, made a speech to the Texians, replete with his usual dry humor. He began nearly in this style: "I am told, gentlemen, that, when a stranger, like myself, arrives among you, the first inquiry is - what brought you here? To satisfy your curiosity at once to myself, I will tell you all about it. I was, for some years, a member of congress. In my last canvass, I told the people of my district, that, if they saw fit to re-elect me, I would serve them as faithfully as I had done; but, if not, they might go to h__, and I would go to Texas. I was beaten, gentlemen, and here I am." The roar of applause was like a thunder-burst. [Louisville Journal.

David Crockett died at the Alamo on March 6, 1836, a month and three days before this article finally appeared in the Niles Weekly Register. If you are like me and have always wondered why Crockett would have told the people of his Congressional district back in Tennessee that they might go to hell and he would go to Texas, then you need to read David Crockett in Congress: The Rise and Fall of the Poor Man's Friend.

David Crockett in Congress covers David Crockett's entire political career in the House of Representatives of the United States Congress in great detail. The book is a wonderful sampler of Jacksonian politics of the 1820's and 1830's from the perspective of an Andrew Jackson supporter (Crockett) who becomes disillusioned with Jackson and party politics.

The authors of this book did not just sit in a library and rehash secondary sources about David Crockett once again. They drew their conclusions almost exclusively from primary sources. In fact, Boylston and Wiener not only drew their conclusions from primary sources, such as correspondence, speeches and political circulars; but more than half the content of their book is transcriptions of those primary sources. The inclusion of these transcriptions allows readers to look at each of these documents for themselves to verify the accuracy of Boylston and Weiner's conclusions. I wish more historians were as courageous in this regard. Because of the transcriptions of so many key documents regarding the life of Crockett are now contained in one handy volume, this book is destined to be a valuable resource for researchers studying David Crockett for many years to come.

The book also gives a detailed account of David Crockett's meteoric rise to national celebrity status, something Crockett himself did not seem to understand. In the end, Crockett's fame was no help to him in his final campaign for re-election to Congress.

With Texas Independence Day (March 2) approaching rapidly, those wishing to know who David Crockett actually was before he became a hero of the Texas Revolution and later the "King of the Wild Frontier" can't go wrong reading David Crockett: The Rise and Fall of the Poor Man's Friend.

David Crockett: The Rise and Fall of the Poor Man's Friend is published by Bright Sky Press, copyright 2009, and is available from Amazon.com.

Newspaper article is from the April 9, 1836 edition of the Niles Weekly Register, (Baltimore Maryland), page 99. Collection of K. K. Searle.

Registration for 2010 SRT Annual Meeting

2010-02-08T09:03:00.003-06:00

The Annual Meeting of the Sons of the Republic of Texas will be held April 9-11, 2010 at the Holiday Inn Select in Tyler , Texas. The Holiday Inn Select is located at 5071 South Broadway Ave., Tyler, Texas. The telephone number to make reservations at the hotel is (903) 561-5800.

Sam Clark, Annual and Quarterly Chairman of the Sons of the Republic of Texas, advises that on line registration for the 2010 SRT Annual Meeting is now available at:

www.srttexas.org/annual2010.html

At this link you can find the Annual Meeting registration information, weekend agenda, and reservation form.

2010-02-08T07:46:00.008-06:00

The Albert Sidney Johnston Camp #67, Houston, Texas, will be holding their monthly meeting Wednesday, February 17, 2010. Prize winning historian and author, Ed Cotham will make a presentation, " The Failure of Federal Naval Strategy in Texas."

Edward T. Cotham has written a number of excellent books about the history of Texas and the Civil War. His books include: The Seventh Star of the Confederacy, Texas During the Civil War (2009, The University of North Texas Press), Sabine Pass: The Confederacy's Thermopylae (2004, University or Texas Press), and Battle on the Bay: The Civil War Struggle for Galveston (1998, University of Texas Press).

The Albert Sidney Johnston Chapter of the Sons of Confederate Veterans meets at The Briar Club located at Westheimer and Timmons Lane in Houston, Texas. There will be an Executive Board meeting beginning at 5:30 p.m. (all camp members in good standing are invited to attend the Executive Board meeting). A happy hour-cash bar will follow at 6:30 p.m. The dinner and Camp Meeting will follow at 7:00 p.m. Please R.S.V.P. to Ev Gardner at 281-980-9054 or Dodd Eastham at dodd@bayoudog.org

Image of "The Johnston Journal" masthead courtesy of Albert Sidney Johnston Chapter #67. All rights reserved.

Lone Star Chapter of SRT 2010 Installation and Mier Expedition

2010-02-08T07:12:00.008-06:00

The Lone Star Chapter of the Sons of the Republic of Texas will hold their monthly dinner meeting at 11:30 a.m., Tuesday, January 9, 2010 at Alamo Joe's Restaurant located at 4747 Research Forest Drive, The Woodlands, Texas. This will be the annual officer installation dinner and it will be presided over by Randall Collard, the District Representative of the Sons of the Republic of Texas.

In addition to the installation of officers, there will be an historical presentation about the Mier Expedition and Associated Texas-Mexico Border Conflicts 1837-1843. Current Lone Star Chapter President, David Martin has recently returned from the battle site in Mier, Mexico. Many will remember that the Battle of Mier preceded the famous "Black Bean" affair at the Rancho Salado. Captured Texas soldiers were compelled to draw beans. If they drew a white bean, they were not shot. If they drew a black bean, they were shot.

For more information about the Sons of the Republic of Texas or the monthly meetings of the Lone Star Chapter in The Woodlands, Texas, call 281-467-8146 or go to the SRT's website at: http://www.lonestarsrt.org/

Photograph of the site of the Battle of Mier is courtesy of David Martin.

Dick Eastman - All-Day Genealogy Seminar - March 27, 2010

2010-02-05T15:31:00.010-06:00

Spend the day with Dick Eastman founder and publisher of "Eastman's Online Genealogy Newsletter" in an all-day seminar sponsored by Clayton Library Friends: "What's Hot and What's Not - Technology and Techniques in the New Decade!" The seminar will be March 27, 2010 at St. Lukes United Methodist Church, 3471 Westheimer, Houston, Texas. The seminar will begin at 9:30 a.m. on March 27, 2010.

The cost of the seminar until March 17, 2010: Members $30 and Non-members $35. There is also an optional box lunch for $10 which includes Salad or Sandwich with sides and drink. The seminar will cost $35 at the door and no box lunch will be available.

A registration form is now available on the Clayton Library Friends web site and in their February 2010 newsletter.

Sam Houston IV Becomes General of Texas Army

2010-01-21T12:06:00.009-06:00

Texas History page contributor, David Martin, advises that Sam Houston IV accepted the appointment to be the next General of the Texas Army yesterday. Sam Houston IV is the great grandson of General Sam Houston who bravely led the Texas army to victory during the Battle San Jacinto on April 21, 1836.

The Texas Army was established to honor its predecessor and to keep the memory alive of those gallant men. In 1969, the Texas Army was officially reactivated by Governor Preston Smith for ceremonial purposes. Each member of the Texas Army is a commissioned "Colonel" by the Governor of Texas. The Texas Army also participates as the special honor guard in the Governor's Inauguration Parade.

Sam Houston IV will be succeeding General Carroll A. "Curly" Lewis, Jr. of the Texas Army who died at 2:45 p.m. on January 7, 2010. The appointment of Sam Houston IV came at a dinner following a special memorial service for General Lewis conducted at the San Jacinto Monument on January 20, 2010 at 2:00 p.m.

Sam Houston IV is a member of the Sam Houston Chapter #38 of the Sons of the Republic of Texas. Houston has dedicated much of his adult life to preserving the history of Texas.

Texas Heritage Society - "Remember Goliad!" Tour of Texas History No. 4

2010-01-13T09:09:00.010-06:00

Texas Heritage Society First Vice President, Hewitt Clark, has announced the intinerary for the Tour of Texas History #4. Mark your calenders and keep this date open.

Hotel rooms are available at the Antler's Inn in Goliad, Texas (1013 US Hwy 59 S.). Telephone 361-645-8215. Double rooms are $58. Here is the revised tour schedule.

Saturday Feb 6, 2010:

12:00 noon--Meet at the Hanging Tree Restaurant in Goliad, Texas (144 N. Courthouse Square) for lunch and to discuss plans.

1:00--Walking tour of the historic plaza area with guide Benny Martinez.

2:00--Travel to General Zaragoza's home for lecture about Cinco de Mayo.

3:00--Special lecture by the Director of the Presidio La Bahia about the 1813 McGee-Gutierrez Expediton including the "bloodiest day in Texas history," the bloody arm flag and Capt. Dimmit's Declaration of Independence in 1835, and the massacre of 400 Texas soldiers under the command of Col. Fannin in 1836. This lecture will be followed by a tour of the Presidio.

6:00--Dinner at Hanging Tree Restaurant and a talk about the Cart War and Violence in Goliad from 1850-1870 by Mr Starr, author and historian.

Sunday, Feb. 7, 2010:

8:00--Breakfast, to be announced.

9:00--Tour and lecture at the Mission.

10:00-- Mass at the Mission for those wishing to participate.

11:00--Travel ten miles to the Coleto Creek battle site for a lecture by Benny Martinez and relatives.

For reservations and further information please contact:

Hewitt Clarke
281-367-2709
Rebelwriter@pdq.net

Click here to vist the Texas Heritage Society's web site.

Sabine Crossing - A Story of Early Texas

2010-01-11T08:19:00.007-06:00

Review of Sabine Crossing by Jacquelyn Thompson
Review by K. K. Searle

I have to admit I was surprised by this book. I enjoyed it very much! Sabine Crossing is excellent Texas historical fiction. Jacquelyn Thompson obviously knows her Texas history as well as her own family history.

Thompson took real family history and made a book out of it and though this is normally the recipe for REALLY bad fiction, Thompson pulls off a HUGE upset! It is really difficult to believe this is her first novel.

The book follows the Bradley family of Kentucky to Austin's Colony in Texas in the early 1820's. The book is told from the perspective of the family matriarch, Elizabeth Bradley and later from the point of view of her daughter, Letty Bradley.

In the early pages of the book, you will think there are just too many characters to keep track of. But, this, as you will see, is just Jacquelyn Thompson sneaking up on you for the "emotional" kill, or rather kills, later on.

Her characters are extremely well developed and really come to life. A big part of this is due to Thompson's dialogue for each of her characters which is some of the best I have seen in while.

Gentlemen, be warned, Sabine Crossing is to novels what a chick flick is to movies. The book is definitely designed to appeal to a female target audience. Very strong women standing up to the incredible hardships in colonial Texas and beyond. This book really tugs at the heart strings and yes, I will admit it, Jacquelyn Thompson's story did bring a tear to my eye on several different occasions and that has not happened in a long long time. And as a guy, that is as much as I am going to admit.

Too often good books are too short and you wish there was more. That is not the situation here. Sabine Crossing, at 667 pages, pulls you in and just keeps on entertaining for a nice long while. My only disappointment in the book was that Letty did not get to kill Warren. And if you want to know what that is all about, you will just have to read the book!

Sabine Crossing - A Story of Early Texas is available at Amazon.com.

Passing of General Carroll A. "Curly" Lewis of The Texas Army

2010-01-10T15:38:00.004-06:00

Col. Jim Peddy, Communications Officer of the Texas Army, informs us that General Carroll A. Lewis, Jr. of the Texas Army died at 2:45 p.m. on January 7, 2010.

The arrangements are being made for the Memorial Service for General Lewis. The services will be held at the San Jacinto Monument on January 20, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. Members of the Texas Army will be forming up well in advance of the service shortly after 1:00 p.m. The Texas Army will be firing salutes with cannon and rifles.

The details of this special and meaningful service for General Lewis are still being worked out. If you have any questions, please contact Col. Jim Peddy at 713-451-5139 or jimpeddy@comcast.net.

Homestead Heritage Days - Humble, Texas February 13, 2010

2010-01-07T15:00:00.006-06:00

Mark you calendars for Homestead Heritage Days on Saturday February 13, 2010, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Redbud Hill Homestead at the Jesse H. Jones Park and Nature Center.

There will be plenty of activities for everyone including:

Demonstrations:

Pioneer Construction Skills
Spinning and weaving
Open-fire cooking
Lye soap making
Hands-on crafts
Heritage music
Pioneer lore
Survival skills
Civil war drills
Black powder demos
Native American crafts
Militia re-enactment groups

1830’s Homestead:

Corn crib
Chicken house
Root cellar
Log cabin
Rail fences
Bread oven
Wagon rides
Pioneer garden
Blacksmith shop
Woodworking shop
Native American dwellings

The Jesse H. Jones Park and Nature Center is located at 20634 Kenswick Drive, Humble, Texas. For more information call Harris County Precinct 4, (281) 446-8588 or click here for a pdf file with all the information.

Photo courtesy of Texas Heritage Society Publicity Chair, Pat Spackey. Jennifer and Kary Searle in period attire.

Texas Heritage Society - March 2010 Meeting Historian James P. Bevill and The Paper Republic

2010-01-04T15:43:00.013-06:00

The March meeting of the Texas Heritage Society is scheduled for March 18, 2010 at 6:30 p.m. The meeting will be held at 18 West Shaker Court in The Woodlands. The March meeting will feature Texas historian James P. Bevill. Mr. Bevill is the author of the fabulous new Texas history book The Paper Republic - The Struggle for Money, Credit and Independence in the Republic of Texas which was published in November of 2009 by Bright Sky Press. Texas Heritage Society President, Kameron Searle, has reviewed Bevill's book and writes that "The Paper Republic is destined to become a classic on the history of the Republic of Texas."

In researching the money and the economy of the Republic of Texas, Bevill has added a whole knew dimension to our understanding of the overall history of the Republic of Texas. James Bevill's 352 page book is also one of the most beautiful Texas history books we have ever seen. James Bevill has agreed to bring copies of The Paper Republic to sell and will be glad to sign copies of this amazing new book. James Bevill is a very interesting speaker and has many interesting historical anecdotes about the early history of Texas that he has discovered over his years of research. Come to this meeting and we can assure you that you will learn some things about the Republic of Texas you never knew before.

James P. Bevill graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Houston - Clear Lake. He is a First Vice President - Investments in the River Oaks office of UBS Financial Services in Houston, Texas. Mr. Bevill is also a past President of the Texas Numismatic Association and an authority on the currency issued by the Republic of Texas. Because of his extensive historical research into the history of the Republic of Texas, Mr. Bevill was recently elected an Honorary Member of The Sons of the Republic of Texas.

Click here to see the Texas Heritage Society web site.

East Montgomery County Historical Society - January 2010 Meeting and Goals

2010-01-04T15:35:00.002-06:00

The following information was submitted to the Texas History Page by East Montgomery County Historical Society Historian, Barbara Hamilton.

Happy New Year!!!! The East Montgomery County Historical Society is planning another great year. Our first meeting of 2010 will be January 12th at the R B Tullis Library, on the Hwy 59 access road just north of Community Drive. Meet and Greet at 6:30 and the meeting starts at 7 p.m.

Our speaker for the evening will introduce us to his ancestor Jeremiah May. Tracking down an ancestor can be a tedious and difficult job but as you follow all the routine steps you don’t find just a name and dates. You find a person. A person who lived in a particular time period, who participated in certain events of history. Each step of the search reveals new insights into who this person was. Clifford May will introduce us to his ancestor Jeremiah May and tell us how he found Jeremiah’s history.

Short term goals for the Society include continuing the restoration work on the Old Porter Community Building so that we may open an East County Museum to spotlight the local history from the time settlers moved into the area just after the Civil War until about the mid 1950s when the telephone and electricity connected everyone with the rest of the world.

We plan to continue periodically display historical artifacts at the R B Tullis Library. The next display will be on personal care items from shaving gear to hair dryers. Later a display of small kitchen appliances is planned and then one of old hand tools. Most of the items will be of the “before electricity” genre. If you have items that would make an interesting display please contact Barbara Hamilton, Historian, at 281-689-2772 or retired@icansurf.net.

Publishing more books is on the list, specifically books on Fostoria, Grangerland, New Caney and Porter. These will be like the “Splendora” book published in 2009 with an expanded view of the communities featured in “Towns of East Montgomery”. If you have pictures or stories of these communities that the Society may use in these publications please contact, Jerry Gay, President, 281-851-6545; Kay Lynn Meyer, Vice President, 281-446-1200; or Barbara Hamilton.

Several cemeteries in the East County boundaries are being looked at for clean up and refurbishing. Lone Star College students partnered with us to clean up at the Enloe Cemetery and we look forward to working with them again.

We are always on the lookout for monthly speakers to tell us about the history of a local family, community, church or other interesting factors of East County history. If you would, or know of anyone who would, like to speak at one of our monthly meetings, please call Kay Lynn Meyer.

The Society will again be front and center at many of the local community events just as in the past. We have more pictures to look through and we continue to gather identification on those we don’t know about. Be sure and come out and look for the split log buildings and the people in the dress of the days of yore.

Although 2010 looks to be a busy year, long term goals, or dreams as the case may be, still focus on having three to five acres to create a living history museum with several old buildings or reproductions of the types of buildings prevalent in the area to demonstrate how life was lived in this section of Montgomery County referred to as the Wild Woods.

Please join us to learn more of the local history or to participate in saving that history for future enjoyment.

Who is Mother Neff and Why is She a State Park?

2009-12-23T12:55:00.010-06:00

Review of Who is Mother Neff and Why is She a State Park? by Allan C. Kimball
Review by K. K. Searle

In this book, Allan C. Kimball will tell you who Mother Neff was and how a Texas state park came to be named after her. I will tell you what this book with the unusual title is all about. It is an excellent guide to all the Texas State Parks. Kimball has researched the history for the source of the name of each of the Texas State Parks and consolidated all of them into this handy 266 page paperback book.

Kimball gives an interesting history of how each of the state parks in Texas got its name as well as many entertaining historical anecdotes. But, the book is so much more than a history. The book is also a very good source of information if you are thinking about visiting a particular state park. All the information is here: 1) locations of the parks - with good instructions on how to get there; 2) hours of operation; 3) amenities available in each of the parks such as: camping, fishing boating, hiking, tours, etc.; and 4) contact information so you can get in touch with each of the parks prior to your visit.

Kimball has divided the state parks of Texas into seven regions: Big Bend and West Texas; Gulf Coast; Hill Country, Panhandle Plains; Pineywoods; Prairies and Lakes; and South Texas Plains. If you travel around Texas like we do, you will want to keep the guide handy. As you are traveling through one of these regions, you can read about the different state parks to help you to decide if you would like to visit. Before you arrive, you will know everything there is to know. It is also an excellent tool for planning your Texas vacation next summer.

As soon as I got through reading this book, it went straight into the glove compartment of our family van. This would make a great gift for the Texas outdoors men and women in your family.

This book is published by Eakin Press and is available from Amazon.com.
Author's book signings and other books: http://www.allankimball.com/

Passing of Joe H. Reynolds and Funeral Arrangements

2009-12-20T07:21:00.007-06:00

“If I had more than one life to live, I’d live every one as a lawyer in Houston, Texas.”

Joe Hunter Reynolds, age 88, loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend, died on Saturday, the 19th of December 2009, of natural causes. Joe is survived by his loving wife Sue Stamper Reynolds,whom he married on the 17th of July 1948, and they spent more than 61 wonderful years together.

Joe was born on the 21st of November 1921, in Commerce, Texas, one of six children born to John Gordon Reynolds and Espie Duke Reynolds. Joe grew up in Tyler and graduated from Waco High School. He worked his way through Tyler Junior College, Baylor University, and Baylor Law School.

Following the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor, Joe enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. In 1945, Lt. Reynolds landed on Iwo Jima, and during fierce fighting Joe was seriously wounded. Joe watched as the American flag was raised atop Mount Suribachi. Most Americans have seen that famous photo. Joe saw it live. Joe received the Purple Heart and numerous other medals
for his military valor.

In 1950, Joe was called back to serve in the KoreanWar. Captain Reynolds landed at Inchon and later fought at the Battle of the Chosin River, called the “Frozen Chosin.” Joe suffered severe frostbite and other injuries, was hospitalized for many months, and for his service Joe was awarded the Commendation Ribbon with Combat V. The Commandant General of the Marine Corps has called the Battles of Iwo Jima and the Chosin Reservoir two of the bloodiest battles in Marines Corps history. Joe was one of the last survivors of both of those historic battles. Joe was a true hero, although he always denied it.

Joe graduated from Baylor Law School and was admitted to the Texas Bar in 1947. Joe first served in the trial division of the Texas Attorney General’s office, representing the Texas Highway Department in antitrust cases, and he opposed Thurgood Marshall in the landmark case ofSweatt v. Painter. Joe was widely regarded as one of the greatest trial lawyers of the last 60 years, and he was recently named a “Texas Legal Legend” by the State Bar of Texas.

Returning to Houston, Joe practiced law the rest of his life, first with the firm of Bracewell, Reynolds & Patterson (now Bracewell & Guiliani). In 1967 Joe formed Reynolds, White, Allen & Cook and successor firms. During his later years he served in an Of Counsel position with Andrews & Kurth and finally with Schwartz Junell Greenberg & Oathout.

In 1972, Gov. Preston Smith appointed Joe as a Regent at Texas A&M University. Joe served as a Regent for 16 years, having been appointed by three different governors. In Joe’s honor, the medical school at Texas A&M is housed in the Joe H. Reynolds Medical Building. Joe organized the Board of Visitors of Texas Southern University School of Law and served on its board for ten years.

A Biblical scholar, one of Joe’s great loves was teaching his Sunday School class at Second Baptist Church, the “Nothing But the Truth” Class. Joe began every lesson with a quote from Romans 1:17: “I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God until salvation to all those who believeth, to the Jew first, and then to the Gentile.” Joe’s faithwas limitless and his love for others reflected his deep love of God and Jesus Christ. He expressed his Christian love for others daily by his words and deeds.

Joe is also survived by his sons, Hunt Reynolds and wife Laura of Houston and Dan Reynolds and wife Nancy of Brenham; grandchildren, Jennifer Reynolds McEwan and husband John of Austin, Clay Reynolds and Danielle Reynolds of Brenham, and Lisa and KentWhite of San Antonio. He is survived by great-grandsons, WilliamMcEwan and Charles McEwan of Austin. He was predeceased by his sister, the late Dorace Reynolds and brothers, the late Johnny Reynolds of Dallas, Earl Reynolds of Houston, andWilliam Reynolds of Pine Bluff, Arkansas. Joe is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

Joe was not only a great patriot, but also a teacher, mentor, and loyal friend to both the powerful and the powerless. His generosity was legendary. He had a heart of service, and his love knew no bounds. Few have impacted as many as Joe. All who knew him knew that they were in the presence of a unique combination of goodness and greatness. Joe would tell each of us at this time the words one Marine says to another just before an amphibious landing: “I’ll see you on the beach.”

Friends are cordially invited to a visitation with the family from five o’clock in the afternoon until eight o’clock in the evening on Monday, the 21st of December, in the Library of Geo. H. Lewis & Sons, 1010 Bering Drive in Houston.

The interment service, with military honors, is to be conducted at half-past nine o’clock in the morning on Tuesday, the 22nd of December, at Forest Park Westheimer Cemetery, 12800 Westheimer Road in Houston. A uniformed steward from Geo. H. Lewis & Sons is to be positioned at the cemetery’s entrance so as to guide guests to the interment site.

The memorial service, to celebrate Joe’s life, is to be conducted at eleven o’clock in the morning, also on Tuesday, the 22nd of December, in the Sanctuary of Second Baptist Church, 6400Woodway Drive in Houston. Immediately following the service, the family is to receive friends during a reception in the Deacons’ Parlor.

For those desiring, contributions in memory of Joe Reynolds may be directed to Boys and Girls Country of Houston, 18806 Roberts Rd., Hockley, TX, 77447.

"The Paper Republic" Book Signing in The Woodlands - December 8, 2009

2009-11-27T13:10:00.005-06:00

When native Houstonian James P. Bevill began writing the book on the early money of Texas four years ago, it began as an outline of the various forms of paper money and the circumstances which led to their issue during the Republic of Texas era (1836-1846). As he dug deeper into the inner workings of the early Texas Treasury, Bevill unearthed the dramatic economic story of a young government struggling to survive in the throes of a global credit crisis by issuing a plethora of paper obligations in order to survive.

Bevill’s book, The Paper Republic: The Struggle for Money, Credit and Independence in the Republic of Texas, was featured at the 2009 Texas Book Festival in Austin, where it met with rave reviews. According to Dr. Bruce Winders, Curator and Historian at the Alamo , “The Paper Republic is history on both the grand and small scale. Moreover, it presents readers with valuable insight into the Republic of Texas that will forever change their view of the revolution and its aftermath.”

The book evolved into a powerful financial story on the economic roots of Texas, ranging from the earliest days of Spanish colonization, through the war for independence and the massive buildup of debt through the paper money system under Presidents Burnet, Houston, Lamar and Jones – creating a financial house of cards which eventually led to the annexation of Texas by the U.S. in 1845. This fully illustrated tome enhances the reader’s experience by literally following the money through the Republic era to the climactic and shocking chain of events which occurred following Texas’ admission as one of the United States.

Bevill will discuss “Financing the Texas Revolution” and sign copies of the book on Tuesday, Dec 8 at the Lone Star Chapter of the Sons of the Republic of Texas, at Alamo Joe’s Restaurant, 4747 Research Forest Dr, Ste 475 in the Woodlands. Cost is $15. The public is invited. Call 281-467-8146 for information.

The Sons of the Republic of Texas is an organization of direct descendents of
the original residents of the Republic of Texas (1836-1846) and are committed to “promoting, preserving, and protecting Texas history for over a century". The Lone Star Chapter serves the Woodlands, Conroe and Montgomery county areas and hosts meetings on the second Tuesday of each month. The book is a new release by Bright Sky Press, 2009. http://www.brightskypress.com/

Jim Bevill
Author - The Paper Republic

Honorary Member of the Sons of the Republic of Texas
San Jacinto Chapter

713-940-2865 Office
713-825-7886 Cell

Dedication of Texas State Historical Marker for Anson Jones - The Last President of Texas - November 21, 2009

2009-11-20T10:31:00.008-06:00

The Texas Heritage Society and the Harris County Historical Commission cordially invite you to the Anson Jones Texas Historical marker dedication ceremony on Saturday, November 21, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. at Glenwood Cemetery located at 2525 Washington Avenue, Houston, Texas. Below is the marker text of the Anson Jones marker:

ANSON JONES
(JANUARY 20, 1798 - JANUARY 9, 1858)

ANSON JONES WAS BORN IN GREAT BARRINGTON, MASSACHUSETTS. HE EARNED HIS M.D. DEGREE IN PHILADELPHIA IN 1827; BY OCTOBER 1833, JONES HAD MOVED TO TEXAS, ESTABLISHING A SUCCESSFUL MEDICAL PRACTICE IN BRAZORIA. IN 1835, HE HELPED ORGANIZE HOLLAND LODGE NO. 36, THE FIRST MASONIC LODGE IN TEXAS. IN 1836, JONES JOINED IN TEXAS WAR FOR INDEPENDENCE AND SERVED AS JUDGE ADVOCATE AND SURGEON OF THE SECOND REGIMENT. HE FOUGHT AS A PRIVATE IN THE BATTLE OF SAN JACINTO.

AFTER THE WAR, JONES RETURNED TO HIS MEDICAL PRACTICE AND IN 1837 WAS ELECTED TO THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. THAT YEAR, HE WAS ALSO ELECTED AS THE FIRST GRAND MASTER OF MASONS IN TEXAS AND WAS AMONG THE NOTED CHARTER MEMBERS WHO ORGANIZED THE PHILOSOPHICAL SOCIETY OF TEXAS. IN 1838, SAM HOUSTON APPOINTED JONES AS MINISTER PLENIPOTENTIARY OF THE REPUBLIC OF TEXAS. IN THIS POSITION, HE BEGAN TO STIMULATE AMERICAN SUPPORT FOR ANNEXATION BY STRENGTHENING TEXAS’ TIES WITH GREAT BRITAIN AND FRANCE, PLAYING AT U.S. INSECURITIES.

JONES MARRIED MARY SMITH McCRORY IN 1840; SHE WAS LATER ELECTED THE FIRST PRESIDENT OF THE DAUGHTERS OF THE REPUBLIC OF TEXAS. IN 1841, PRESIDENT HOUSTON APPOINTED JONES AS SECRETARY OF STATE, WHERE HE FURTHER ENCOURAGED ANNEXATION. IN 1844, JONES WAS ELECTED PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF TEXAS; HE BECAME THE COUNTRY’S LAST PRESIDENT WHEN THE U.S. ANNEXED TEXAS ON DECEMBER 29, 1845. AT A FORMAL CEREMONY IN AUSTIN ON FEBRUARY 19, 1846, JONES LOWERED THE LONE STAR FLAG AND DECLARED, “THE REPUBLIC OF TEXAS IS NO MORE.” HE RETIRED TO BARRINGTON, HIS PLANTATION NEAR WHAT IS NOW WASHINGTON-ON-THE-BRAZOS, WHERE HE SPENT MUCH OF HIS TIME WRITING. TODAY, ANSON JONES IS REMEMBERED FOR HIS MULTITUDE OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS, INCLUDING THOSE THAT EARNED HIM THE NICKNAME, “THE ARCHITECT OF ANNEXATION.”

(2009)
MARKER IS PROPERTY OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

"Time of the Rangers" by Mike Cox

2009-11-13T22:33:00.010-06:00

Review of Time of the Rangers by Mike Cox

Review by K. K. Searle

Like the Alamo, the Texas Rangers are a cherished symbol of the Lone Star State recognized the world over. If you are a fan of the Texas Rangers, like we are, and want to read an excellent history of that world famous law enforcement organization, you can't go wrong with Mike Cox's new book, Time of the Rangers: From 1900 to Present.

In 2008, Mike Cox brought us the first of two books he's written about the Texas Rangers. His first book appropriately titled The Texas Rangers: Wearing the Cinco Peso, 1821 - 1900 presented the well researched and detailed history of the Texas Rangers from the time of its creation in Stephen F. Austin's colony prior to the Republic of Texas until 1900.

The first real in-depth history of the Texas Rangers was written by Dr. Walter Prescott Webb and published in 1935. Webb's classic was titled The Texas Rangers: A Century of Frontier Defense. As Mike Cox points out in his excellent new book, Webb had intended to update his 1935 classic in the 1960's, but died in an automobile accident before he got the chance. Cox's new book, Time of the Rangers: Texas Rangers: From 1900 to Present, does what Walter Prescott Webb never got the chance to do; complete the history of the Texas Rangers into the modern era.

This book is incredibly well researched. Cox is something of an insider having served for fifteen years as a spokesman for the Texas Department of Public Safety. The Texas Rangers are part of the Texas Department of Public Safety. A ton of research went into this book. For the historical purist, Time of the Rangers has almost 100 pages of Notes and Bibliography. This book is destined to become the starting point for all future historians studying this period in Texas Ranger history.

But, if your not that into historical research, don't let this assessment put you off. As famed American historian David C. McCullough once put it, "No harm's done to history by making it something someone would want to read." Mike Cox has made Time of the Rangers something a whole lot of people will enjoy reading. He is a very interesting and entertaining writer. There is also a lot here for those who are looking for the heroic bigger than life Texas Rangers.

You might think that once the Rangers entered the 20th century that that might have been the end of the romance and adventure we have come to perceive about the Texas Rangers, but you would be wrong. The book begins with the Rangers still on horse back in 1900 and takes you to how they became one of the most modern and best trained law enforcement agencies in the world. From the rowdy oil field boom days to the killing of Bonnie and Clyde to the Carrasco prison escape attempt to the apprehension of rail-road killer, Rafael Resendez-Ramirez; the Texas Rangers have protected and are still protecting Texas and Texans from the bad guys. There is a whole lot of wonderful information in this book.

Another interesting aspect of Mike Cox's new book is that while he is relating the actual history of the Texas Rangers, he also reports how the public's perception of the Texas Rangers has been enhanced and romanticized even further by decades of different types of media including newspapers, books, magazines, radio shows, movies and television shows. A few familiar examples include The Lone Ranger; Walker, Texas Ranger and Lonesome Dove.

With his two books, Cox has become, without question, "the authority" with regard to the history of the Texas Rangers from its beginning to the present. Webb's book will always be popular for its heroic account of the early history of the Texas Rangers, but Cox's two books will be studied for their accuracy and balanced portrayal.

Christmas is coming. Get this one for yourself or the Texas history enthusiast in your family. You might also consider getting the first book, The Texas Rangers: Wearing the Cinco Peso, 1821-1900, so you will have the the most complete history of the Texas Rangers currently available.

Publisher's book page: http://us.macmillan.com/timeoftherangers
Author's blog with virtual tour itinerary: http://www.lonestarbooks.blogspot.com/
Author's website: http://www.mikecoxonline.com/

2009-10-05T09:32:00.004-05:00

Review of The General and Monaville, Texas by Joe G. Bax

Review by K. K. Searle

Wow! I really enjoyed this one! If you ever wondered what film writer/director Quentin Tarantino would do with a movie about post Civil War Reconstruction Texas, Joe G. Bax gives us a pretty good idea in his novel The General and Monaville, Texas.

The book is film noir through and through, but you don’t begin to figure that out until near the end of the book. Even the book's dust jacket makes no sense until the end of the book. The book reads like a screen play right down to the last close up shot at the end of the movie, ...uh book.

The book is historical fiction in that it does give the reader a much clearer understanding of the social changes that occurred in the South during the Reconstruction period following the Civil War. It is a picture that the reader may never have gotten in their American History classes. I had never really connected all these dots before myself until reading The General and Monaville, Texas.

Beyond that the book is almost completely fiction. Don’t look for General George Custer in Waller County at Liendo Plantation. He’s not in the book. Don’t look for anything approaching historical fiction about Waller County, Texas. Waller County is not in the book. Bax borrows the name of the town of Monaville, Texas and the Brazos River Bottoms and its all fiction after that right down to the courthouse in Monaville. Or is it?

We will just have to wonder if Joe G. Bax knew anything about Texas founding father, Edwin Waller, or not.

Buy the book! Read the book! Enjoy the book!

Quentin make the movie!

Photograph: Cover of The General and Monaville, Texas; Courtesy of Emerald Book Company, Austin, Texas.

San Jacinto Day Ceremony 2009

2009-04-20T21:38:00.002-05:00

The official San Jacinto Day Ceremony commemorating the 173rd anniversary of the Battle of San Jacinto will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, April 21, 2009 at the base of the San Jacinto Monument at the San Jacinto Battleground. The principal speaker will be Archie P. McDonald, Regent's Professor, Stephen F. Austin State University.

Ron Stone, Jr. will be the Master of Ceremonies. The musical prelude will be performed by the Deer Park High School Orchestra. The Daughters of the Republic of Texas and the Sons of the Republic of Texas will present their scholarship winners.

USS San Jacinto & USS Texas Sailor Awards will be presented by the Sam Houston Chapter of the Sons of the Republic of Texas and the San Jacinto Chapter of the Sons of the Republic of Texas.

The ceremony will conclude with a reading of Sam Houston's report of the Battle of San Jacinto and a laying of the wreath. The Texas Army will be present to fire a salute.

Come out and honor the memory of those brave men who fought and changed the history of Texas and the United States forever. All are welcome.

George Palmer Macias "Firefly" CD Release Party - April 18, 2009 - Ringtail

2009-04-16T16:51:00.011-05:00

The CD release party for George Palmer Macias' CD, Firefly, will be this Saturday, April 18, 2009, at 7:30 p.m. at The Saxon Pub in Austin, Texas. George Palmer Macias is a very talented singer and songwriter in Austin, Texas.

The CD, Firefly, features ten original songs written and performed by Macias. One of these songs is titled, Ringtail. It is about Texas founding father, Martin Parmer. Martin Parmer was born in Virginia. He was an Indian agent for William Clark (of Lewis and Clark fame). Parmer made a name for himself as an Indian fighter in Missouri and was elected as a State Representative to the first Missouri General Assembly. He was later elected a Senator to the third Missouri General Assembly.

In 1825, Martin Parmer came to Texas. In 1826, he was the leader of a group of men that instigated the Fredonian Rebellion of 1826-1827. This was an early attempt to declare Texas independent of Mexico. The Fredonian Rebellion failed and Martin Parmer became a wanted man in Mexican Texas for almost ten years.

In 1835, Martin Parmer was elected a delegate to the Consultation of San Felipe where he placed Henry Smith's name in nomination for Governor of Texas. Smith was elected the first American born Governor of Texas. Parmer was then elected to the General Council of the Provisional Government of Texas.

In 1836, the people of the San Augustine Municipality elected Martin Parmer a delegate to the Convention at Washington-on-the-Brazos. On March 2, 1836, Parmer voted for Texas independence from Mexico. In addition to signing the Declaration of Independence, Parmer was also chairman of the committee that drafted the Constitution of the Republic of Texas.

In 1839, Republic of Texas President, Mirabeau B. Lamar, appointed Martin Parmer Chief Justice of Jasper County, Texas. Parmer died on Texas Independence Day, March 2, 1850.

George Palmer Macias takes credit for all the songs and lyrics on his CD, Firefly, except one. On Ringtail, Macias credits Martin Parmer with writing the chorus. Martin Parmer called himself the Ring Tailed Panther and was known as such in Missouri, Arkansas, Mexico and Texas. About 1820, Martin Parmer who was the quentiscential frontiersman uttered the words that make up the chorus of Ringtail, "I am the Ring-tailed Panther, wild wooly, hard to curry. When I’m mad I fight, and when I fight I whoop!"

Our hats are off to George Palmer Macias for his fine song about Texas founding father, Martin Parmer. George Palmer Macias has a wonderful free Internet jukebox called Texiss Cafe spotlighting Texas singers and songwriters. You can also hear Ringtail there.

2009 Battle of San Jacinto Symposium

2009-02-08T15:30:00.008-06:00

The 2009 Battle of San Jacinto Symposium will be held Saturday, April 18, 2009, 9:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Hilton Hotel and Conference Center at the University of Houston. This year's theme is New Light on Old Stories - What Can the Battleground Tell Us Through the Eyes of Archaeologists? Social Historians? Financiers? Anthropologists? Tickets are $50.00 and include lunch and parking.

Since 2003, more than 1000 newly discovered battle artifacts have extended the area of the San Jacinto conflict beyond the current park boundary. A panel of speakers will discuss these findings - as well as items recently found in the Texan camp.

This year's speakers are H. W. Brands, Sam W. Haynes, James P. Bevill and James Crisp. This year's panelists are Roger Moore, Gregg Dimmick, Douglas D. Scott, Douglas Mangum and Manuel Hinojosa.

The Battle of Sam Jacinto Symposium is sponsored by the Friends of the San Jacinto Battleground as a forum for promoting public awareness of the events of the Texas Revolution. For additional information, call 9281) 496-1488 or email sjba@usa.net .

You can also visit http://www.friendsofsanjacinto.org/ .

Photograph: San Jacinto Monument; Courtesy of David Melasky.