John A. Quitman

Today in Texas HistoryOn the trail to Texas independence.Apr 23, 1836 - Secretary of War, Thomas J. Rusk, directs Benjamin Crowell Franklin to head to Galveston and tell David G. Burnet, President of Texas, of the defeat of Santa Anna at San Jacinto.The volunteer cavalry company under John A. Quitman arrive at San Jacinto. They will be put into use to guard the Mexican army as they head westerly.Dispatches reaches General Urrea to join Filisola at Fort Bend immediately. Urrea was fixing to attack Galveston where the Texas cabinet were located.The New Orleans Bee writes on US General Gaines possibly crossing the Texas border to get involved in the war. "If Gaines enters Texas with his forces, he exceeds his authority, no matter on what pretext."Photos: Thomas J. Rusk, John A. Quitman, General General José de Urrea, General Vicente Filisola.