The Homesite of Raphael D'Ortolan

Don Bernardo D’Ortolan (1750-1821), a French native and captain in the Spanish militia, lived near Nacogdoches as a farmer with his two sons and nine slaves, including Marie Juana and her six children. Bernardo’s relationship with Marie Juana appears complex and it is believed that he fathered one or more of her children, including Raphael D’Ortolan (1788-1839). Little is known about Raphael’s childhood except for his baptism in Natchitoches shortly after his birth. When Raphael was 25, Bernardo fled the area due to his involvement in the Gutierrez-Magee Revolt and left the rancho in Raphael’s care. Raphael maintained the rancho and occasionally played host to visitors and travelers along El Camino Real De Los Tejas.

In 1821, in accordance with Bernardo’s will, Raphael was granted his freedom. For the next 18 years, Raphael lived as a free man on the land where he grew up. He married Josefa Lopes and had three children. Raphael demonstrated his free legal status by testifying in court, contributing to community projects and efforts, and paying rent and taxes. When the Republic of Texas won its independence from Mexico, many members of established Hispanic, African and Mulatto freemen and Native American families suddenly were disenfranchised and dispossessed. In response, Vicente Cordova and a group of multi-ethnic Mexican loyalists revolted in 1838. In 1839, the group was attacked by Gen. Burleson near Seguin while attempting to escape to Mexico. Nineteen men were taken prisoner, including Raphael. Refusing to be sold into slavery, Raphael was blindfolded and shot. Raphael’s life represents the untold story of African Creoles on the Spanish Colonial frontier.