In 1836, Sam Houston was elected as the first president of the Republic of Texas. This marked a pivotal moment in the state’s history as it gained independence from Mexico. Mirabeau B. Lamar was also elected as vice president, forming a strong leadership for the new republic. In addition to the elections, voters approved a referendum requesting annexation by the U.S., further solidifying Texas’ desire to become part of the United States.
Another notable event took place in 1850 when the Texas legislature incorporated Lockhart Academy, the first school in Caldwell County. This move emphasized the importance of education in the state and set a precedent for the establishment of more schools and educational institutions in the future.
Moving ahead to 1877, Texas outlaw Bill Longley was found guilty of the murder of Wilson Anderson by a Lee County jury. He was subsequently sentenced to death, making Longley a notorious figure in Texas history.
Fast forward to 1930 when the Daisy Bradford #3 blew near Turnertown. This event marked the discovery of the East Texas Oil Field, which would go on to have a significant impact on the state’s economy and transform Texas into a major player in the oil industry.