Michel B. Menard
Galveston, Galveston County, Texas
Marker Inscription
(December 5, 1805 - September 2, 1856) A native of Canada, Michel B. Menard came to Texas in 1829. He lived in Nacogdoches and Liberty before settling in Galveston in 1833. He was one of the signers of the Texas Declaration of Independence in 1836, and later represented Galveston in the Congress of the Republic of Texas. As one of the founders of the Galveston City Company he was instrumental in the development of the island. Menard County was created in 1858 and named in his honor. Recorded - 1994
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
A French-Canadian trader, Michel B. Menard reached Texas in 1829 and settled on Galveston Island in 1833, then signed the Texas Declaration of Independence in 1836. As a founder of the Galveston City Company he steered the island's early development into a major port, and later served the Republic in its Congress. Menard County was named in his honor in 1858.
Why it matters
Menard's career links the founding of the Republic of Texas to the rise of Galveston, which for decades was the young state's leading port and gateway for immigrants and commerce.
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Related people
- · Michel B. Menard
Related events
- · Texas Declaration of Independence
Themes & tags
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