William Joel Bryan
Jones Creek, Brazoria County, Texas
Marker Inscription
(December 14, 1815 - March 3, 1903) Grandson of Moses Austin, whose dream of Anglo-American colony changed course of Texas history. Came to Texas with his mother and stepfather in 1831; served in Texas army from 1835 to 1838. A highly successful planter, he was instrumental in building of deepwater port at mouth of the Brazos. Town of Bryan, Texas, is named for him. He married Lavinia Perry. Lived at "Durazno" Plantation-- a gift of his uncle, Stephen F. Austin. Had 7 children. Recorded - 1970
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Grandson of Moses Austin, whose colonizing dream reshaped Texas, William Joel Bryan came to the country with his family in 1831 and served in the Texas army from 1835 to 1838 during the struggle for independence. A prosperous planter, he was instrumental in building a deepwater port at the mouth of the Brazos and lived at 'Durazno,' a plantation given to him by his uncle Stephen F. Austin. The city of Bryan, Texas, bears his name.
Why it matters
Bryan's life links the Austin family's founding vision to the plantation economy and commercial ambitions that shaped the Republic and early state of Texas.
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Related people
- · William Joel Bryan
- · Moses Austin
- · Stephen F. Austin
- · Lavinia Perry
Themes & tags
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