Lot 168
Austin, Stephen F (1793-1836) Known as the "Father of Texas"; founded the first Anglo-American colony in the Tejas province of Mexico and lived to see Texas become an independent republic. Autograph Letter Signed ("Step:n F. Austin"), 5 x 7¾ in., March 10, 1811. Written by 17-year-old Stephen to Mr. M. Ruggles: " Dear Sir Please to let the bearer have one hundred pounds of Flower and place the same to acc of M. Austin. Yours &c Step:n F. Austin." Paper is unevenly toned; horizontal fold has several small breaks and upper edge has a few chips, but the letter is boldly penned and signed.
In the spring of 1810, Austin had returned to Potosi, Missouri, from two years at Transylvania University in Lexington, Kentucky, and helped his father, Moses, in the general store which Moses had set up. The flour which Stephen ordered was probably to be sold in the general store. Moses, who is mentioned in this letter, was also involved in mining, smelting, and manufacturing lead. When the family business failed, Moses received from the Spanish governor in San Antonio a land grant of 200,000 acres, on which he intended to settle 300 colonists. In 1820, on his way back to the United States to recruit colonists, Moses became ill and died. Stephen took over his father's dream.
Estimated Value $3,000 - 3,500.
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| Realized $1,800 |
