On September 26, 1736, the controversial figure Carlos Benites Franquis de Lugo arrived in San Antonio to assume the role of ad interim governor of Spanish Texas. His administration would be marked by numerous controversies and conflicts, as he grappled with the challenges of governing a territory that was constantly under threat from indigenous tribes and competing European powers.
Another significant event in Texas history occurred on September 26, 1854, when Allyre Bureau became the director of the Société de Colonisation Europeo-Americaine au Texas. This group of French and Swiss emigrants founded a colony near the present-day city of Dallas, contributing to the diverse cultural landscape that Texas is known for today.
Fast forward to September 26, 1927, and we find the end of an era as the “Toonerville Trolley” streetcar service from Houston to Bellaire was replaced with bus service. This marked a significant shift in transportation infrastructure and reflected the changing needs and technologies of the time.
Jumping ahead a few decades, September 26, 1981, was a momentous day for Houston Astros fans as Nolan Ryan threw his fifth no-hitter. Ryan, a legendary and record-breaking pitcher, solidified his status as one of the greatest players in baseball history with this impressive feat.
Finally, on September 26, 2012, iconic country singer George Strait announced his retirement from touring after his Cowboy Rides Away Tour. Strait’s farewell tour culminated in a memorable performance in Arlington, Texas, on June 7, 2014, marking the end of an era in Texas music.