Historical Marker

Governor George Tyler Wood

Historical marker location:
Coldspring, Texas
( Courthouse lawn on SH 150 at FM 1514)
Marker installed: 1976
Marker size: 27" x 42"

(1795-1858) Born in Georgia and married there in 1837 to Martha Evans Gindrat (1809-63), a widow with 3 children, George T. Wood came to Texas with his family in 1839 and settled along the Trinity River near Point Blank. Wood studied law and was elected to the 6th Republic of Texas Congress, 1841-42, and the Annexation Convention of 1845. As a state senator in 1846, he sponsored a bill creating Tyler County. Woodville, the county seat, was named for him, as was Wood County, created in 1850.

Wood left the Senate in 1846 to fight in the Mexican War (1846-48). His military heroics helped make him the popular choice for governor in 1847. Under Gov. Wood, the recently-organized state government faced the problems of recurring Indian hostilities and a boundary dispute in Santa Fe County (now part of New Mexico). Gov. Wood urged sale of public lands to pay the large public debt. His administration saw the establishment of a state library and a penitentiary.

Mrs. Wood, who raised silkworms and made her own silk cloth, did not accompany her husband to the State Capital at Austin, then a rough frontier town without an official governor's residence. After failing to win a second term in 1849, Gov. Wood returned to his home at Point Blank. He died at age 63 and was buried nearby

As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.

The Battle of San Jacinto fought on April 21, 1836, was the decisive battle of the Texas Revolution, and led to the capture of Santa Anna and the end of the conflict.
Texas random facts
San Jacinto County, Texas, is located in the southeastern part of the state. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Atakapa, Akokisa, and Caddo peoples. In the early 19th century, European settlers began to arrive, with Stephen F. Austin's colony bringing the first wave of Anglo-Americans to the region.

The county was officially established in 1870, named after the Battle of San Jacinto, a turning point in the Texas Revolution. The battle took place in 1836, when Texan forces led by General Sam Houston defeated Mexican forces led by General Antonio López de Santa Anna. This victory led to the independence of Texas from Mexico.

San Jacinto County experienced significant growth in the late 19th century due to the expansion of the railroad in the region. The Houston, East, and West Texas Railway reached the county in 1879, opening up opportunities for trade and commerce. The timber industry also played a crucial role in the county's development, with logging becoming a major economic driver.

In the 20th century, San Jacinto County faced challenges such as the Great Depression and natural disasters like hurricanes and floods. However, the county persisted and continued to grow. Today, San Jacinto County is known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, with the Sam Houston National Forest and Lake Livingston attracting visitors and residents alike. The county also maintains its historical importance, holding events and commemorations related to the Battle of San Jacinto and the Texas Revolution.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of San Jacinto County, Texas.

  • 1832: The area that would become San Jacinto County is settled by a few families.
  • 1836: The Battle of San Jacinto takes place, a turning point in the Texas Revolution.
  • 1848: San Jacinto County is officially formed and organized as a county in the Republic of Texas.
  • 1850: The county's population reaches 648 residents.
  • 1870s: The timber industry begins to flourish in San Jacinto County.
  • 1872: The county's first newspaper, The San Jacinto Times, is established.
  • 1900: The population of San Jacinto County reaches 8,603.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression greatly affects the county's economy, leading to a decline in the timber industry.
  • 1940: The population of San Jacinto County decreases to 4,110.
  • 1960s: Multiple oil and gas wells are established in the county, bringing economic growth.
  • 1970: The population of San Jacinto County reaches 10,761.
  • 1990: The population of San Jacinto County reaches 16,672.
  • 2000: The population of San Jacinto County reaches 22,246.
  • 2010: The population of San Jacinto County reaches 26,384.