James Bradford Pier
Kenney, Austin County, Texas
Marker Inscription
(Nov. 23, 1813-Feb. 5, 1888) A native of Circleville, Ohio, J. B. Pier came to Texas in 1835 with his wife, Lucy (Merry). The Piers settled in this area near the site of the early Texas town of Travis. Pier served as a member of the Texas Army during the War for Independence. He was detailed as a rear guard at the camp opposite Harrisburg during the Battle of San Jacinto. In later years, he was a farmer, stock raiser, teacher, and merchant. He served as Justice of the Peace of Austin County and was the first postmaster of the Travis community. Pier is buried in the nearby Travis Cemetery. (1985)
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
James Bradford Pier, an Ohio native born in 1813, came to Texas in 1835 with his wife Lucy and settled near the early town of Travis. He served in the Texas Army during the war for independence, posted as a rear guard across from Harrisburg during the decisive Battle of San Jacinto in 1836. In peacetime he farmed, raised stock, taught, kept a store, served as justice of the peace, and became the Travis community's first postmaster.
Why it matters
Pier's life traces the arc of the Texas Revolution generation, from citizen-soldier at San Jacinto to builder of the civic institutions of a new republic.
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Related people
- · James Bradford Pier
- · Lucy Merry Pier
Related events
- · Battle of San Jacinto
Themes & tags
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