Little Bits of History Along U.S. Roadways: Texas

Friday, February 25, 2011

Birthplace of Sam Houston

Rockbridge County, VA

Marker No. A-52

Marker Text: In a cabin on the hilltop to the east Sam Houston was born, March 2, 1793. As commander-in-chief of the Texas army, he won the battle of San Jacinto, which secured Texan independence, April 21, 1836. He was President of Texas, 1836-1838, 1841-1844; United States Senator, 1846-1859; Governor, 1860-1861. He died, July, 1863.

Location: On U.S. Route 11, 5.3 miles north of Lexington at Sam Houston Wayside, the Timber Ridge Presbyterian Church is located behind the wayside. When traveling north on Route 11 the wayside is the on the right, past the underpass for Interstate 81/64, exit 195. Erected by the Conservation & Development Commission in 1929.

Until I came across this marker, I did not know that Sam Houston had been born in Virginia. I have discovered many individuals were born in Virginia then later went on to achieve fame in other parts of the country.

Description

When I travel the U.S. roadways, I prefer driving on the two lane highways rather than the interstate highways, when time and my route permits. One reason is my interest in state and county historical road markers. I have taken photos of these markers and their related landmarks on and off for several years, since I was a teenager. In the past few years I have made the photographing these markers and studying these little bits of history into my hobby. This blog contains my personal photos of these markers taken during my travels. My blog is more than just a collection of photos, I will also share some of the things I have learned, as I read, studied and followed-up on the information common in these markers. There are often interesting stories and other connections related to these markers, which frequently lies just below the surface. I will also connect the dots and share the series of stories that are common among multiple markers.
My chief interest is in the stories of the metal state and county historical road markers, but I will include photos and information about other markers, when they relate to my main entry. To learn more about how my interest in historical road markers developed, read my introduction to this blog entered on October 8, 2009.
I invite you to share your comments about stories, facts, and other information shared in these markers. I have attempted to keep my entries brief without getting into extensive background information, (I did not want to get carried away with every historical detail) just that information that I found interesting, unusual or fascinating. Maybe you live near one of these markers, maybe you are related to the person, or have personal knowledge about the topic, event or location. I would love to learn from you more details and history. The history of our country is not only informative, but I find it also amazing, exciting and some times humorous as we learn about those people, places and events that shaped who we are as Americans. Regardless of our background, history or heritage, we share a common history as a nation and as a people.