John C. McCoy
Dallas, Dallas County, Texas
Marker Inscription
(1819 - 1887) Practiced law in Kentucky before coming to Texas in 1845. Was agent for Peters' Colony located in Dallas and adjacent counties. First attorney to practice law here. He founded bar association; fought in the Mexican War; was outstanding civic leader. Recorded - 1968
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
John C. McCoy practiced law in Kentucky before arriving in Texas in 1845, the year of annexation, to serve as agent for the Peters' Colony that was settling Dallas and its surrounding counties. He became the area's first practicing attorney, founded its bar association, and fought in the Mexican War. As a civic leader he helped shape the legal and institutional foundations of early Dallas.
Why it matters
McCoy's career traces the moment raw frontier settlement began organizing itself into law, courts, and civic order in North Texas.
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Related people
- · John C. McCoy
Related events
- · Peters' Colony settlement
Themes & tags
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