The archive
All stories
History · People
Texas Genealogy Family RegisterThe following family register entries to Lone Star Junction are posted so that our viewers can share information about specific families that lived in early Texas. Inquiries of more general interest in Texas…
Facts · Symbols
The Texas State SealToday, the seal of the state of Texas has developed into a uniform design with both a front (obverse) and a reverse side. By law, the seal is required to authenticate official documents of the state. The…
Facts · History
Texas State Song – Texas, Our Texas, hail the mighty State!“Texas, Our Texas,” the official state song of Texas, was adopted by the Legislature in 1929 after being selected in a state-wide competition. It was composed by William J. Marsh of Fort Worth. The lyrics were…
Facts · Symbols
The Texas State Insect: Monarch ButterflyThe Monarch Butterfly became the Texas state insect by a 1995 resolution of the state legislature. The resolution was introduced by Representative Arlene Wohlgemuth on behalf of students in her district.
Facts · Symbols
The Texas State Tree: PecanThe pecan tree was signed into law as the state tree of Texas in 1919. Legend has it that Texas Governor, James Hogg, was particularly fond of the pecan tree and requested a pecan tree be planted on his…
History · People
50 People Who Shaped Texas HistoryThe following are people that performed key roles in the development of Texas before 1900. Click the name for additional biography and details of each individual.
History · People
Robert M. Williamson “Three-Legged Willie” (1804-1859)A severe illness at the age of fifteen left R. M. Williamson crippled for life. As a result of the illness, his right leg was drawn back at the knee. To compensate, he wore an artificial limb from the knee…
History · People
William A. A. “Bigfoot” Wallace (1817-1899)In a land and at a time known for its tough and colorful characters, William A. “Bigfoot” Wallace felt right at home. During his sixty years in Texas, he set the standards as a ranger, backwoodsman and folk hero.
History · People
William Barret Travis (1809-1836)Born in South Carolina on 9 August 1809, William Barret Travis will always be remembered as the Texas commander at the Battle of the Alamo. He spent his childhood in Saluda Co., SC, which was also the home of…
History · People
Alexander W. Terrell (1827-1912)For over fifty years, Alexander Terrell maintained a high profile in Texas. His public service career progressed from that of district court judge to military officer, legislator, and U. S. minister to Turkey.
History · People
Henry Smith (1788-1851)For his role in the Provisional Government during the early stages of the Texas Revolution, Henry Smith is remembered as the first American governor of Texas. He is also remembered as having married three times…
History · People
Erastus “Deaf” Smith (1787-1837)Erastus Smith was hearing impared. Despite this handicap, however, Smith became one of Sam Houston’s most reliable and most trusted scouts. He was a man of few words, but was well known for his coolness in the…