Texas' Historical Milestones On This Day May 7th

Today we take a look back at some key moments that have helped shape the Lone Star State. On May 7th, 1824, the Mexican state of Coahuila y Tejas was officially established. This followed the drafting of a new constitution in Mexico, and the inclusion of Texas as a state in its own right was an important step in the development of the region.

Moving forward to May 7th, 1844, and we see the arrival of the Scioto Belle at Galveston from New Orleans. This steamer was a vital link between Galveston and Houston, as well as landing points along the Trinity River. During a yellow fever epidemic, the boat was converted into a hospital by Dr. John Henry Bowers and proved to be a vital resource in this challenging time.

Jumping ahead to May 7th, 1861, and we note the birth of Anna Pennybacker in Petersburg, Virginia. She would later go on to play a vital role in Texas history, graduating from the first class of Sam Houston Normal School in Huntsville, TX. In 1888, she wrote and published A New History of Texas, which would become a staple textbook in classrooms across the state for the next four decades.

Finally, we have to acknowledge the famous quote from Davy Crockett, who said, "You may all go to Hell, and I will go to Texas." This was his response to losing the 1835 race for Tennessee's seat in the U.S. legislature, and showed his commitment to relocating to Texas, where he would ultimately perish at the Battle of the Alamo.

Key moments in Texas history, we'll continue to explore in upcoming articles.