Jourdan Smith
Elgin, Bastrop County, Texas
Marker Inscription
(March 24, 1811 - March 30, 1873) Born in Georgia. Came to Texas to fight in revolution in 1836. Received 320 acres of land for service, plus one-third league headright, from the Republic of Texas. Worked as a carpenter and a professional builder. Married Frances Duckworth in 1843. Purchased a farm in Young's Prairie community, 1848, where he served as justice of the peace. Only one of his children lived to maturity. This land is still owned by his descendants. Recorded - 1970
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Georgia-born Jourdan Smith came to Texas in 1836 to fight in its war for independence, earning land from the young Republic for his service. A carpenter and professional builder, he settled in the Young's Prairie community, served as justice of the peace, and passed down land his descendants still hold today.
Why it matters
His story reflects the frontier settlers whose military service and homesteading helped turn the Republic of Texas into a lasting community.
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Related people
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Themes & tags
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