Ulysses Cephas
San Marcos, Hays County, Texas
Marker Inscription
(1884-1952) The son of former slaves Joe and Elizabeth Cephas, Ulysses Cephas was born in San Marcos. He was trained at an early age to carry on the blacksmithing trade of his father. Known as "Boots" to his friends and family, Cephas eventually owned his own blacksmith shop and was known throughout the county for his skills in shoeing horses and creating superior wagons and farming implements. a respected community leader, he was an active member of the First Missionary Baptist Church and organizer of the San Marcos Independent Band.
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Born in San Marcos in 1884 to formerly enslaved parents, Ulysses "Boots" Cephas learned the blacksmith's trade from his father and grew into one of the county's most respected craftsmen, prized for his skill at shoeing horses and building wagons and farm tools. He owned his own shop and gave back to his community as a church member and organizer of the San Marcos Independent Band. His life traces one family's path from bondage to skilled independence in a single generation.
Why it matters
Cephas's story captures the postemancipation rise of Black artisans and community leaders who built livelihoods and institutions in the face of Jim Crow-era barriers.
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Related people
- · Ulysses Cephas
- · Joe Cephas
- · Elizabeth Cephas
Themes & tags
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