Why Great-Grandpa Went to Texas

Linda Sappenfield — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 22:18:00 GMT

Any discussion of what makes Texans Texans should include David Crockett. Perishing at the Alamo just a few weeks after his arrival, this newcomer martyred himself for Texas independence. However--loyalty and sacrifice aside--Crockett's actions upon leaving Tennessee already signaled his suitability for Texan-hood. Having lost re-election for Congress, Crockett reportedly declared, "You may all go to Hell, and I will go to Texas."

I don't mean to suggest that contentiousness is the defining Texan characteristic (some would argue), but the desire for re-invention probably is. Many of Tweed Scott's interviews in Texas in Her Own Words note the allure of the second chance. Mike Harris observes, "Even Davy Crockett was looking for a new start" (pg. 15). Paul Andrew Hutton agrees that one of Texas' greatest charms is that "you have the possibility of becoming something new" (pg. 10).

Many of us claim Texas ancestors who required fresh starts--and right away, too--following illegal duels, horse-trading incidents with fatal outcomes, or other such events occurring in more settled areas of the nation. These hurried transplants, along with others chasing adventure or prosperity, would likely have supported Vonceia Reece's judgment that "To be a native Texan means you are adaptable" (pg. 52).

In April, Round Rock Reads! will sponsor three events: a film, a panel discussion/ice cream social, and a book discussion. These features were chosen to portray the history of the Texan identity. Come join us in an exploration of the past, the personalities of the Lone Star State, and a bit of modern controversy. You'll see why the late Marge Mueller, mayor Luckenbach, reflected, "I agree that with opportunity comes the struggle. This is Texas" (pg. 152).

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Why Great-Grandpa Went to Texas