Historical Marker

Captain Jesse Burnam

Historical marker location:
CR 401, Marble Falls, Texas
( SH 71 at North CR 401)
Marker installed: 2014
Marker size: 27" x 42" with post

Texas Patriot Jesse Burnam (also spelled Burnham), born in Madison county, Kentucky, was the youngest son of seven children. In 1812, Jesse married Temperance Null Baker in Shelbyville, Tennessee. Jesse was a private in the Mounted Volunteers of Tennessee in the War of 1812, serving from Sep. 1814 to Apr. 1815, including the Battle of New Orleans. Jesse, Temperance and family arrived in Texas in 1821, settling at Pecan Point (Red River County). By 1823, they were among Stephen F. Austin’s “Old Three Hundred,” building a home, fortified trading post and ferry service on the Colorado River frontier. Austin commissioned Burnam as a captain of militia in May 1824. Temperance died in 1833, leaving Jesse with nine children. He later married Nancy Ross, who bore him seven more children. Jesse was a delegate to the Conventions of 1832 and 1833 and the Consultation of 1835. He aided Col. James W. Fannin in gathering volunteers and supplies during the Texas Revolution, and Gen. Sam Houston arrived at Burnam’ s Crossing on March 17, 1836, ordering the ferry, homestead and store burned ahead of the advancing Mexican army. Jesse was a Representative in the Republic of Texas’ provisional government and its first congress.

Jesse and Nancy moved their family to Burnet County in 1855, following two older sons who had settled here. Jesse’s land was southeast of present-day Marble Falls on Double Horn Creek, where he established one of the first sheep raising operations in the area and a large wheat farm. The historic Burnam homestead, now in the family’s fifth generation, includes a log cabin, two-story home, spring house, and family cemetery where Jesse, Nancy and others are buried

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.

pioneers
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
In the late 19th century, Texas became known for its cattle drives, in which cowboys would move herds of cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas and other northern states. The cattle drives were dangerous and difficult work, but they played a key role in the development of the American cattle industry.
Texas random facts
Burnet County, TX is located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country and has a rich history that spans centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Tonkawa and Lipan Apache. In the 1830s, European settlers began to arrive in the region, and in 1846, Burnet County was officially established by the Texas legislature.

During the mid-1800s, the county played a significant role in the development of Texas. It served as a route for settlers heading west to other regions and became a popular stop for travelers. The town of Burnet, the county seat, grew steadily and became a center for trade and commerce.

In the late 19th century, Burnet County experienced a boom when the railroad reached the area in 1882. This new mode of transportation brought an influx of people and helped to stimulate economic growth. Agriculture, particularly the production of cotton, flourished during this time. The county also saw the establishment of various businesses, schools, and churches.

In the 20th century, Burnet County continued to evolve. It became known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities, attracting visitors from all over. The area also played a role in World War II, as Camp Bowie, a military training facility, was built in the county. Today, Burnet County remains a vibrant community with a mix of historical significance and natural beauty, offering residents and visitors a unique experience.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Burnet County, Texas.

  • 1848: Burnet County is established by the Texas legislature and named after David G. Burnet, the first president of the Republic of Texas.
  • 1852: The first permanent settler, Reuben Hornsby, arrives in the area.
  • 1854: The town of Burnet is designated as the county seat.
  • 1861-1865: Burnet County residents serve in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War.
  • 1870: The population of Burnet County reaches over 2,000.
  • 1873: The Austin and Northwestern Railroad is completed, connecting Burnet County to other parts of Texas.
  • 1882: The Texas Legislature establishes the first marble quarry in Marble Falls, bringing economic growth to the county.
  • 1937: Lake Buchanan is completed, becoming the first of several reservoirs built in Burnet County to provide water and hydroelectric power.
  • 1984: The Highland Lakes chain, a series of six reservoirs including Lake Buchanan, becomes a major tourist attraction in Burnet County.
  • 2008: The historic Burnet County Courthouse, built in 1884, is restored and reopened to the public.