On this day, an important chapter in Texas' history was written.
Confederate Forces Claim Victory over Federal Troops Stranded at Port of Saluria
April 25th, 1861
In the midst of the Civil War, on April 25th, 1861, Confederate colonel Earl Van Dorn led his troops to victory over stranded Federal troops at the port of Saluria in Calhoun County. Saluria, previously a thriving port and ranching center, had attracted Federal troops hoping to find transport back to the North. However, they were intercepted by Van Dorn and forced to surrender. Following their parole, the troops sailed for New York. Although Confederate forces later burned the town during a federal blockade, citizens began moving back to the island after Federal troops left in 1864. Yet by 1904, only a rural school remained as a reminder of the once-prominent community.
Convention of Limits Signed, Recognizing Texas Claims to Disputed Territory
April 25th, 1838
On April 25th, 1838, the Republic of Texas and the United States signed the Convention of Limits, officially recognizing Texas’ claims to disputed territory in Red River County and setting the Sabine River as the eastern boundary of Texas. While tensions still existed between the two countries over Indian depredations along the republic's northern border, this agreement helped to establish clearer boundaries for Texas. However, in the following century, disputes arose between Texas and Louisiana over the exact location of their border, leading to more negotiations and discussions.
Black Seminole Scouts Receive Medal of Honor for Rescuing Commander from Comanches
April 25th, 1875
On April 25th, 1875, Black Seminole scouts Pompey Factor, Isaac Payne, and John Ward earned the Medal of Honor for their bravery in rescuing their commander, Lt. John Lapham Bullis of the Twenty-fourth United States Infantry, from Comanche Indians. The scouts and Bullis were pursuing a band of Comanches when they were outnumbered and forced to retreat. Bullis was unable to mount his horse, but the three scouts turned back to mount him and alternately carried him to safety through hostile Indian fire. Their bravery and gallantry in action earned them the highest honor a soldier could receive.