Colonel Robert Simonton Gould
Historical marker location:(1826-1904)
Born in North Carolina. Educated at University of Alabama. Came to Texas in 1850. Practiced law in Centerville. Served as the first district attorney, then as judge in the Old 13th Judicial District.
Represented Leon County as member of Secession Convention, 1861. Afterward, as this county voted 534 to 82 in favor of secession, raised locally troops which as Co. B, became nucleus for 6th Texas Cavalry (or Gould's) Battalion, in the Confederate Army. First as major, then as colonel, Gould led battalion for 4 years in Louisiana and Texas. Saw duty in Red River campaign to prevent invasions of Texas, fighting in the 1864 repulses of Federals at Mansfield and Pleasant Hill. At Jenkins Ferry, Ark., Col. Gould had his horse killed under him.
After the war he was reelected judge of the Old 13th District, but was removed in 1867 by military authorities in charge of reconstruction in Texas.
Appointed assistant justice of Texas Supreme Court in 1874, he was afterwards elected, and served until Dec. 31, 1882 (being chief justice in 1880-1882).
Was named, along with Governor O. M. Roberts, as one of two first professors of law at the University of Texas, holding tenure 1883-1899. Died in Austin
April 12, 1861: The Civil War begins with the Confederate attack on Fort Sumter, located in South Carolina's Charleston Harbor.
April 15, 1861: President Abraham Lincoln issues a call for 75,000 volunteers to serve in the Union Army to suppress the rebellion.
May 24, 1861: The first major land battle, known as the First Battle of Bull Run (or First Battle of Manassas), takes place in Virginia. It ends in Confederate victory.
September 17, 1862: The Battle of Antietam in Maryland becomes the bloodiest single-day battle in American history, with heavy casualties on both sides. The Union forces, commanded by General George McClellan, manage to halt Confederate General Robert E. Lee's advance into Union territory.
January 1, 1863: President Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring that all slaves in Confederate-held territories are to be set free. However, the proclamation does not immediately free all slaves in the United States.
July 1-3, 1863: The Battle of Gettysburg in Pennsylvania takes place, resulting in a significant Union victory and inflicting heavy casualties on Confederate forces. It marks a turning point in the war.
November 19, 1863: President Lincoln delivers the Gettysburg Address, emphasizing the principles of liberty, equality, and the preservation of the Union.
April 9, 1865: General Robert E. Lee surrenders to Union General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House in Virginia, effectively ending the Civil War.
April 14, 1865: President Lincoln is assassinated by John Wilkes Booth while attending a play at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C.
May 10, 1865: Confederate President Jefferson Davis is captured, signaling the collapse of the Confederate government.
December 6, 1865: The Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution is ratified, officially abolishing slavery throughout the country.
While this timeline provides an overview of key events, it is important to note that the Civil War spanned over four years, from 1861 to 1865, and encompassed numerous battles, campaigns, and political developments that shaped the course of American history.
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 discovery of oil in 1901 near Beaumont, Texas, sparked an oil boom that transformed the state's economy and led to the rise of the modern petroleum industry.
During the mid-19th century, Leon County experienced rapid growth and development. The arrival of the railroad in the 1870s brought even more settlers to the area, and towns such as Centerville and Buffalo began to flourish. Agriculture played a vital role in the county's economy, with cotton, corn, and cattle being the main products. The county also became known for its timber industry, as vast forests provided ample resources for logging.
In the early 20th century, Leon County faced economic challenges due to the decline of the cotton industry and the Great Depression. However, the advent of improved road networks and the establishment of electric power brought some revitalization to the region. The construction of Lake Limestone in the 1970s provided a new recreational and economic opportunity for the county.
Today, Leon County maintains its agricultural heritage while also embracing modern developments. The county is home to a diverse range of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism. Its natural beauty, with its rolling hills and tranquil lakes, continues to attract visitors from near and far. With a strong sense of community and a resilient spirit, Leon County preserves its past while embracing the future.
Leon County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Leon County, Texas.
- 1835: Leon County is created and named after Martín De León, a Mexican empresario.
- 1836: The Battle of Nacogdoches takes place during the Texas Revolution.
- 1837: The county seat is established in Leona.
- 1841: Centerville becomes the new county seat.
- 1861: Texas secedes from the United States and joins the Confederate States of America.
- 1870: The International-Great Northern Railroad is built through Leon County.
- 1883: The Houston & Texas Central Railroad extends its line to Centerville.
- 1927: The Texas oil boom reaches Leon County.
- 1950: The population of the county reaches its peak at around 22,000.
- 1998: The county is hit by a severe tornado, causing significant damage.
- 2021: Leon County continues to be a rural community with a focus on agriculture and outdoor recreational activities.