“I suppose you are like all other folks you think that the people in Texas are all wild and a set of Robbers and cut throats but it is a mistake. The citizens are surely very respectable honest People the country is the finest I ever saw and as healthy as any other southern country.”

Autograph letter signed by A.L. and R.R. Crossman, to Rachel Crossman. Louisville, Texas, 11 March 1840. 1 page. Integral address panel with postmark to verso.

A colorful letter written from the Republic of Texas. The letter is signed by both “A.L.” and “R.R.” Crossman who are likely father and son, possibly Albert Lancaster Crossman (1804-1844) and his son Robert Alonzo Crossman (1834-1893). They are co-writing to their wife and mother Rachel R. Davis Crossman. Originally from Ireland, Albert married Rachel Davis in Pennsylvania in 1831 and emigrated to Galveston, Texas by 1839. Robert, who appears to be the primary scribe, is listed as a carpenter in the 1860 census, married with 4 children. During the Civil War, he served with the 1st Louisiana Light Artillery, returning to Texas after the conflict.

They are concerned with their family’s well-being and write about their fortunes “keeping a small store and public house on the San Jacinto…six miles from the battle ground, half way from Galveston to Houston.” He comments directly on the public perception of Texans: “I suppose you are like all other folks you think that the people in Texas are all wild and a set of Robbers and cut throats but it is a mistake. The citizens are surely very respectable honest People the country is the finest I ever saw and as healthy as any other southern country.”

With: Autograph letter [by Robert Crossman?], to his Sister. Muddy Creek Township, Butler County, Pennsylvania, 12 July 1848. 2 pages.

A later letter, that although unsigned, appears to be the same hand as the earlier letter from 1840. Written from Muddy Creek Township, the author writes to his sister with extensive updates on family and friends’ health.

1840 letter with separations along old folds, heavy toning. Tear to left edge. Both letters have been laminated.

[Texas, Republic of Texas, Texiana, Manuscripts, Letters, Documents, Ephemera]


[Mexican-American War, Mexican War, Militaria, Veterans, Ephemera, Late Indian Wars, Texas, Alamo, Sam Houston, Davy Cockett]