James P. Dumas
Van Alstyne, Grayson County, Texas
Marker Inscription
(1820-1875) Born in South Carolina. In 1841 married May Thompson and moved to the Republic of Texas. In his capacity as surveyor, he helped map land that became a section of Dallas. Moved from Collin to Grayson County just before Texas joined the Union. Fought in Mexican War, 1846. Was appointed surveyor for Grayson County. Later came to own famous "Sister Grove" farm. So extensive was his land that he could ride from his home to Sherman (about 20 miles) without leaving his own property. He helped found Merchants & Planters Bank in Sherman, 1872.
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
James P. Dumas (1820-1875), a South Carolinian, married and moved to the Republic of Texas in 1841 and worked as a surveyor, helping map land that became part of Dallas. He fought in the Mexican War of 1846, served as Grayson County surveyor, and amassed holdings so vast he could ride the twenty miles to Sherman without leaving his own land, later helping found a Sherman bank in 1872.
Why it matters
Dumas embodies the surveyor-settlers whose chains and compasses converted frontier North Texas into the farms, banks, and towns of the settled state.
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Related people
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Themes & tags
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