March 25, 1843, seventeen Texans were executed at Salado, Tamaulipas, Mexico. These individuals were selected through a black bean lottery after attempting to escape captivity. Following the execution, their bodies were returned to Texas and laid to rest on Monument Hill in La Grange, Fayette County.
On the same day in 1986, the General Land Office received a new seal in honor of the Texas Sesquicentennial, marking 150 years since Texas declared its independence. This event signified a significant milestone in the state’s history and was commemorated through various activities and celebrations throughout the year.