Mercer [Texas] Colonists

Charles Fenton Mercer was born in Fredricksburg, Virginia June 16, 1778.  Mercer became interested in Texas colonization.  Initially his interest was drawn to Peter's Colony in northern Texas, and he emigrated to Texas (1843) as an agent of that colony.  On January 19, 1844 he prevailed upon President Sam Houston, to grant him an empresario contract located east of Peter's Colony in Northeastern Texas.  According to the terms of his contract, Mercer was to settle one hundred (100) families during the next five years, i.e. by January 29, 1849, on any unclaimed lands.  Mercer then organized the Texas Association to facilitate the actual recruitment of prospective settlers.  

This book tells of all the obstacles that were faced trying to form the Mercer Colony including Squatters and unfavorable land offerings.   

Gifford White

(1984), 2010, paper, 45 pp.

ISBN: 9780788485893

101E-TX0012