James Elbert Downes
Crockett, Houston County, Texas
Marker Inscription
(October 31, 1845 -- January 25, 1917) A native of Houston County, James Elbert Downes was the son of area pioneers. He served in the Civil War and was later active in the local Confederate veterans association. He was married to Elizabeth Brown in 1871 and they were the parents of three sons. A prominent local business and civic leader, Downes devoted much of his time to the Methodist Church. The home he built for his family on 7th Street in a noted landmark. Recorded - 1989
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Born in 1845 to Houston County pioneers, James Elbert Downes came of age in time to serve in the Civil War and remained active in the local Confederate veterans association for the rest of his life. A prominent business and civic leader devoted to the Methodist Church, he built a family home on 7th Street that still stands as a local landmark.
Why it matters
Downes's life reflects the postwar Southern community, where Confederate veterans became the merchants, churchmen, and civic pillars who rebuilt local society.
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Related people
- · James Elbert Downes
- · Elizabeth Brown
Themes & tags
Nearby & related markers
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