George Glenn
Historical marker location:George Glenn
George Glenn, son of Wash Glenn, was born into slavery in March 1850 and raised on the ranch of local cattleman Robert B. "Bob" Johnson. He was trained in ranching activities and as a trail cook. Following Emancipation, Glenn chose to stay on the Johnson Ranch as a cowhand.
In the spring of 1870, Glenn accompanied Johnson on a cattle drive to Abilene, Texas. There, Johnson became ill and died. His body was placed in a metallic casket and temporarily buried in July 1870. Following the sale of the cattle, Glenn disinterred Johnson's body to drive it home in a wagon. Following the six-week trip, Johnson was re-interred next to his wife in the Columbus Cemetery.
Glenn never made the trip to Abilene again. In 1872, he wed Lucy Conner. The couple established a homestead in Glidden and had at least one child. Glenn maintained a lifelong friendship with John Edward Folts, Texas Ranger, cattleman and nephew of Bob Johnson.
Glenn was recognized for his bravery in traveling nearly 800 miles by wagon to bring his employer home. One of few African American members of the old trail drivers of Western America, Glenn was honored at the group's 1924 and 1926 reunions for his valor. An attendee at the 1924 reunion in San Antonio, noted Texas author and folklorist J. Frank Dobie interviewed Glenn, preserving the first-hand story of his famous trip for future generations.
In 1931, at the age of 80, Glenn died of pneumonia at his home in Glidden. John Edward Folts once said of Glenn, "of such stuff were the old trail drivers, white and black, made…," and today Glenn is remembered for his bravery and loyalty, an example of the hard-working trail drivers of the late nineteenth century.
(2003)
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 Texas Rangers, a famous law enforcement agency, were first organized in 1835 to protect settlers from Native American attacks.
During the Republic of Texas era, Colorado County saw rapid growth and development. The county seat, Columbus, was established in 1839 and quickly became a major commercial center. The town served as an important stop on the Old San Felipe Road, a major transportation route connecting East and Central Texas. The discovery of oil and gas in the region in the early 20th century further fueled the county's growth and economic prosperity.
Colorado County played an important role during the Civil War. Many residents of German descent who settled in the county were Union sympathizers, while others supported the Confederacy. The county witnessed several skirmishes and military actions, including the Battle of Columbus in 1862, when Confederate forces repelled a Union raid. After the war, the county slowly rebuilt its economy and infrastructure.
In the 20th century, Colorado County diversified its economy beyond agriculture. The discovery of oil and gas led to the development of a thriving energy industry, and manufacturing and services sectors also grew. Today, Colorado County is a mix of suburban and rural areas, with agriculture, oil and gas, and tourism forming the pillars of its economy. The county continues to preserve its historical sites and celebrate its diverse heritage, attracting visitors from across the state and beyond.
Colorado County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Colorado County, Texas.
- 1821: The area that would become Colorado County, TX is included in Austin's Colony, established by the Mexican government.
- 1835: The area plays a role in the Texas Revolution as volunteers from Colorado County participate in the Battle of Gonzales.
- 1837: Colorado County is officially established as a county in the Republic of Texas.
- 1838: Columbus is selected as the county seat.
- 1846: Colorado County is incorporated into the state of Texas as it becomes part of the United States.
- 1850s: The county experiences rapid growth as more settlers move into the area, establishing farms and ranches.
- 1861: With the outbreak of the Civil War, many residents of Colorado County actively support the Confederacy.
- 1870s: The county's economy starts to diversify with the discovery of oil, leading to the establishment of oil wells and refineries.
- 1935: The Lower Colorado River Authority is established, and dams are constructed in the area for flood control and water supply.
- 1970s: Colorado County experiences an agricultural decline as farming becomes less profitable.
- 1997: The Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long Center for the Performing Arts is opened in Austin, providing a cultural center for the region.