2011 Martin de Leon Reunion and Symposium

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

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

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!"

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?

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.

Sam Houston's great grandson, Sam Houston IV, and Martin Parmer's 3rd great grandson, Kameron K. Searle.

“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?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.