Travis Clack Henderson
Paris, Lamar County, Texas
Marker Inscription
One of eight children, Travis Clack Henderson was born in Alabama on June 24, 1836 to John Henry and Minerva Bernard Henderson. In 1856, he moved to Paris, Texas, and established himself as a farmer. He joined the local militia in 1860. During the Civil War, he served with the 32nd Dismounted Texas Cavalry as Captain and staff officer, and became a prisoner of war in 1864. Released in 1865, he returned to Lamar County and wed Martha "Mattie" Susan Thomas (d. 1885) in 1866. The couple had seven children and were active in the community, especially in educational and governmental efforts. He represented the area for 12 years in the Texas House of Representatives and for two years as a State Senator. (2004)
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Born in Alabama in 1836, Travis Clack Henderson moved to Paris, Texas, in 1856 to farm and joined the local militia in 1860. During the Civil War he served as a captain and staff officer with the 32nd Dismounted Texas Cavalry, was taken prisoner in 1864, and was released in 1865. Back in Lamar County he married, raised seven children, and went on to represent the area for twelve years in the Texas House and two in the State Senate.
Why it matters
Henderson's life traces the arc of a Confederate soldier who returned from war and prison camp to help rebuild civic life, a common path for the Southern veterans who shaped Reconstruction-era Texas politics.
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Related people
- · Travis Clack Henderson
Related events
- · American Civil War
Themes & tags
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