More excerpts and a photo at the link.
Davy Crockett's last letter in Texas' hands | Chron.com - Houston Chronicle
Davy Crockett's last letter in Texas' hands | Chron.com - Houston Chronicle
AUSTIN — Two months before his death at the Alamo, the legendary Davy Crockett wrote to his children that he dreamt of finding fame and fortune in Texas, "the garden spot of the world."
The letter, which the Texas Historical Commission purchased from a Houston collector for $550,000, is believed to be Crockett's last.
If so, there's no hint of foreboding in his tone, no sign of the mythological hero who was bravely prepared to defend the Alamo to his death, if necessary.
John L. Nau III, chairman of the historical commission, announced the purchase at the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum Tuesday, noting that the letter's owner, Ray Simpson of Houston, will refund $60,000 of the sale price.
Nau said a permanent home for Crockett's letter remains undetermined, but he promised it will eventually be placed on display for all Texans to see.
"This is truly a state treasure," Gov. Rick Perry said at the unveiling ceremony. "The history of mankind is very rich with this colored, vivid mosaic of this extraordinary place called Texas."
Crockett, writing to his son and daughter on Jan. 9, 1836, described himself as "blessed with excellent health" and in "high spirits," despite encountering difficulties in Texas.
His text contained no grammatical punctuation, including commas or periods at the end of sentences.
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3 comments:
Only what if the letter isn't really by Davy Crockett?
I noticed that nobody had commented on this item. This is late, but I figured I owe it to my fond childhood memories of Fess and Buddy to at least say that any writing by the immortal Davy has to be a national treasure. This reminds me that another Alamo-related letter, Travis' desperate appeal from the Alamo "to the People of Texas & all Americans in the world," is one of the great American documents -- it never fails to raise goosebumps.
I feel the same way, Fred. And I sure hope the Crockett letter is authentic.
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