What was the Texas Revolution?

The Texas Revolution was a conflict fought between the Republic of Texas and Mexico from 1835 to 1836. It resulted in the independence of Texas from Mexico and the establishment of the Republic of Texas.

What were the causes of the Texas Revolution?

The causes of the Texas Revolution were multifaceted. Some key factors include discontent among American settlers in Texas due to the centralist policies of the Mexican government, the abolition of slavery in Mexico (which clashed with the pro-slavery sentiments of many Texas settlers), and the general desire for greater political autonomy.

Who were the major figures of the Texas Revolution?

Prominent figures in the Texas Revolution include Sam Houston, Stephen F. Austin, James Bowie, William B. Travis, Davy Crockett, and Antonio López de Santa Anna.

What were the major battles of the Texas Revolution?

The Texas Revolution included several significant battles, including the Battle of the Alamo (1836), the Battle of San Jacinto (1836), the Battle of Goliad (1836), and the Siege of Béxar (1835).

What was the significance of the Battle of the Alamo?

The Battle of the Alamo, which took place in February 1836, was a pivotal event in the Texas Revolution. Although the Texian defenders, including famous figures like Davy Crockett and Jim Bowie, were ultimately defeated by the Mexican army led by Santa Anna, the battle inspired and rallied Texian forces and became a symbol of resistance.

How did the Texas Revolution end?

The Texas Revolution ended with the decisive Texian victory at the Battle of San Jacinto on April 21, 1836. The Texian army, led by Sam Houston, defeated Santa Anna's forces, captured Santa Anna himself, and forced him to sign the Treaties of Velasco, recognizing the independence of Texas.

What was the outcome of the Texas Revolution?

The outcome of the Texas Revolution was the establishment of the independent Republic of Texas. It remained an independent nation for nearly a decade until it joined the United States as the 28th state in 1845.

How did the Texas Revolution impact the United States?

The Texas Revolution had a significant impact on the United States. It led to the annexation of Texas, which sparked tensions between the United States and Mexico and eventually resulted in the Mexican-American War (1846-1848).

Were there any notable documents associated with the Texas Revolution?

Yes, the Texas Declaration of Independence, signed on March 2, 1836, was a crucial document in the Texas Revolution. It outlined the reasons for separating from Mexico and establishing an independent Texas.

What is the importance of the Texas Revolution in Texan and American history?

The Texas Revolution holds great importance in Texan and American history. It demonstrated the spirit of independence and self-determination, leading to the formation of the Republic of Texas and eventually the expansion of the United States westward. It also influenced the debate over slavery and contributed to the tensions between the North and South leading up to the American Civil War.

Historical Marker

Somervell County

Historical marker location:

Elm Street, Glen Rose, Texas

( Somervell County Courthouse grounds. 1965 bronze plaque replaced 1936 original.)

Marker installed: 1936

Marker size: 1936 Centennial - Highway Marker (pink granite)

Named for Alexander Somervell (1796-1854), native of Maryland, veteran of the Battle of San Jacinto, secretary of War under Texas President David G. Burnet; commanded the 1842 Somervell Expedition seeking to end Mexican invasions of Texas Republic. Region was in old Brazos Land District. Home of Wacos and other Indians. First white settler was Charles Barnard, 1848. First cotton crop and first tannery were introduced during Civil War, 1861-1865. Created from land in south end of Hood County and organized in 1875; Glen Rose (founded as Barnard's Mill), county seat. (1965)

A brief timeline of the Texas Revolution

1821: Mexico gains independence from Spain, and Texas becomes a part of the Mexican territory.
1824: The Mexican government establishes a constitution, known as the Mexican Federal Constitution of 1824, which grants certain rights to the Mexican states, including Texas.
1826: The Fredonian Rebellion occurs when Haden Edwards, an empresario (land agent), declares the independence of the Republic of Fredonia in East Texas. The rebellion is quickly suppressed by Mexican authorities.
1830: The Mexican government passes the Law of April 6, 1830, which imposes several restrictions on American immigration to Texas and increases Mexican control over the region. This leads to growing tensions between Mexican authorities and the Anglo-American settlers.
1832: The Battle of Velasco takes place between Texian settlers and Mexican forces near the town of Velasco. The Texians win the battle, which marks one of the early armed conflicts in the region.
1835: The Texas Revolution officially begins with the Battle of Gonzales. Texian rebels refuse to surrender a cannon, and Mexican troops are sent to retrieve it. However, the Texians successfully defend the cannon, which has a flag with the words "Come and Take It" painted on it.
October 1835: Texian forces capture the Mexican garrison at Goliad, marking a significant victory for the revolutionaries.
November 1835: The Consultation, a provisional government, is established by the Texian rebels. They declare loyalty to Mexico while seeking a restoration of the Mexican Constitution of 1824 and the removal of Mexican President Antonio López de Santa Anna.
December 1835: Texian rebels, under the command of Ben Milam, capture San Antonio de Béxar after a 13-day siege. Mexican forces under General Martín Perfecto de Cos surrender, giving the Texians control of the city.
March 1836: The Texian garrison at the Alamo, in San Antonio, is besieged by a large Mexican force under General Santa Anna. The battle lasts for 13 days, and despite fierce resistance, the defenders are overwhelmed, and all are killed.
March 2, 1836: The Texas Declaration of Independence is adopted at the Convention of 1836, held at Washington-on-the-Brazos. Texas declares itself as an independent republic.
March 27, 1836: The Goliad Massacre takes place when General Santa Anna orders the execution of around 350 Texian prisoners of war at Goliad.
April 21, 1836: The Battle of San Jacinto occurs near the present-day city of Houston. Led by General Sam Houston, the Texian army defeats the Mexican forces, capturing Santa Anna himself. The battle lasts only 18 minutes and is a decisive victory for the Texians.
May 14, 1836: The Treaties of Velasco are signed, officially ending the Texas Revolution. Santa Anna, as a prisoner, signs the treaties recognizing Texas as an independent republic and agreeing to withdraw Mexican troops from the region.
October 22, 1836: Sam Houston is inaugurated as the first President of the Republic of Texas.

This timeline provides a general overview of the major events during the Texas Revolution, but it is important to note that there were numerous smaller engagements and political developments throughout the conflict.

About Texas State Historical Markers

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.

counties Texas Revolution Republic of Texas military topics

Texas is not a state – it’s a state of mind

About Somervell County

Somervell County, located in north-central Texas, has a rich history that dates back several centuries. The area was originally occupied by Native American tribes, primarily the Tonkawa, before European settlers arrived in the 1850s. The county was officially established in 1875 and was named after Alexander Somervell, a Texas general who fought during the Texas Revolution.

In the late 19th century, Somervell County became a prominent center for agriculture and ranching. Cotton was the main crop grown in the county, and many farms and plantations flourished during this time. Additionally, the discovery of large limestone deposits in the county led to the establishment of several quarries, which became an important industry for the area.

One of the most significant events in Somervell County's history occurred in the early 20th century. In 1929, construction began on the Glen Rose Dam, which created the picturesque Lake Granbury. This provided water for irrigation and recreational opportunities, leading to the growth of tourism in the area.

Today, Somervell County continues to thrive with a diverse economy that includes tourism, agriculture, and small businesses. The county is known for its natural beauty, with attractions such as the Dinosaur Valley State Park, which features fossilized dinosaur footprints, and the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, a popular safari park. The historic downtown area of Glen Rose remains a charming destination for visitors, showcasing its rich history through numerous preserved buildings and museums.

Somervell County Timeline

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

1849 - Somervell County is established as a county by the Texas state legislature.
1850 - The first settlers begin arriving in Somervell County.
1852 - The county's first post office is established at Glen Rose.
1860 - The population of Somervell County reaches 604 residents.
1861 - The Civil War begins, and many men from Somervell County join the Confederate Army.
1875 - The Texas Central Railroad is completed, passing through Glen Rose and boosting the local economy.
1881 - Dinosaur tracks are discovered along the Paluxy River, leading to increased tourism and scientific interest in the area.
1906 - The creation of the Brazos River Authority brings hydroelectric power to Somervell County.
1929 - The Great Depression heavily impacts the county's agricultural and oil industries.
1969 - The Comanche Peak Nuclear Power Plant is completed, providing a major source of employment and revenue for Somervell County.
1990 - The population of Somervell County reaches 6,333 residents.
2013 - The creation of the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center attracts tourists from around the world.
2019 - Somervell County celebrates its 170th anniversary since its establishment.