John Mitchell
Caldwell, Burleson County, Texas
Marker Inscription
Born in Tennessee c. 1836-37, John Mitchell came to Texas in 1846. He began purchasing land in this area in 1870, the same year he married Viney Cox. As a member of both the 12th and 14th Legislatures, Mitchell championed increased educational opportunities for African Americans. Elected as a delegate to the 1875 Constitutional Convention, he defended the policies of Gov. Davis and was one of 11 members to vote against adoption of the new constitution, which ultimately marked the end of reconstruction in Texas. John Mitchell returned to Burleson County as a farmer and rancher, and donated land for a church and school that bore his name. Upon his death in 1921, he was buried in a family graveyard. (2002)
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Born in Tennessee about 1836, John Mitchell reached Texas in 1846 and began buying Burleson County land in 1870. Serving in the 12th and 14th Legislatures, he championed education for African Americans, and as a delegate to the 1875 Constitutional Convention he defended Governor Davis and was among eleven who voted against the new constitution that closed out Reconstruction in Texas. He later farmed and ranched and gave land for a church and school bearing his name.
Why it matters
Mitchell stands among the Black political leaders of Reconstruction Texas who fought to secure education and rights before the door of that era swung shut.
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Related people
- · John Mitchell
- · Viney Cox
- · Edmund J. Davis
Related events
- · 1875 Texas Constitutional Convention
Themes & tags
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