William Tennant Austin
Galveston, Galveston County, Texas
Marker Inscription
(January 30, 1809 - February 25, 1874) Born in Connecticut. Moved to Texas in 1829. Took part in Texas Revolution, participating in Siege of Bexar, 1835. Served as aide to Stephen F. Austin, "The Father of Texas" (a distant relative), Gens. Edward Burleson and Sam Houston. Commander at Port of Velasco. Was elected clerk of Brazoria County, 1837. Later collector of customs at Velasco. In 1854 moved to Galveston, becoming commission merchant, cotton factor. Officer under Confederacy, Civil War (1861-65). Recorded - 1971
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Connecticut-born William Tennant Austin came to Texas in 1829 and threw himself into its revolution, fighting in the 1835 Siege of Bexar and serving as aide to his distant relative Stephen F. Austin as well as to Generals Burleson and Houston. He commanded the Port of Velasco, held county offices, and worked as a customs collector before moving to Galveston as a cotton factor, later serving the Confederacy in the Civil War.
Why it matters
Austin's career spans the birth of the Texas Republic through the Civil War, linking one man's life to the founding and turbulent early decades of the state.
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Related people
- · William Tennant Austin
- · Stephen F. Austin
- · Sam Houston
Related events
- · Siege of Bexar
- · Texas Revolution
Themes & tags
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