Ammon Underwood
West Columbia, Brazoria County, Texas
Marker Inscription
(February 13, 1810 - November 17, 1887) Born in Massachusetts; came to Texas, 1834. As a young man, held odd jobs, survived 2 shipwrecks, and explored Texas countryside. Fought in 1835 Siege of Bexar, Texas Revolution. Then settled here. Married Rachel Carson, 1839, by whom he had 4 children. Ran a thriving mercantile firm for 50 years, but lost a fortune in cotton during Civil War. Anson Jones, President of Texas, 1844-46, was a close friend. Served in the State Legislature in 1884. Recorded - 1970
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Born in Massachusetts in 1810, Ammon Underwood came to Texas in 1834 after a young life of odd jobs, two shipwrecks, and wandering exploration. He fought in the 1835 Siege of Bexar during the Texas Revolution, then settled at West Columbia, where he ran a thriving mercantile business for fifty years and counted Republic of Texas president Anson Jones among his close friends. He lost a cotton fortune during the Civil War but later served in the state legislature.
Why it matters
Underwood's long life bridges the Texas Revolution, the Republic, and statehood, illustrating how New England migrants helped build the commerce of early Texas.
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Related people
- · Ammon Underwood
- · Anson Jones
- · Rachel Carson Underwood
Related events
- · Siege of Bexar
Themes & tags
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