The Old 300: Texas' Original Gangsters (Kind Of)
So, you wanna know about the Old 300, huh? Well, buckle up, cowboy, because we're about to dive into some seriously dusty history.
Who Were These Guys, Anyway?
Picture this: It's the early 1800s, and Texas is basically the Wild West. No, not the Clint Eastwood kind of Wild West, more like the "we're-trying-to-civilize-a-desert" kind. Enter Stephen F. Austin, a dude who was basically the Texas real estate mogul of his time. He got permission from the Mexican government to bring in 300 families to settle the land. These folks? That's our Old 300.
Now, don't go thinking these were some kind of elite special forces unit. They were just regular folks looking for a fresh start. Farmers, ranchers, and probably a few folks who were just tired of their mother-in-law. But, let's be real, they had some serious cojones to uproot their lives and head into the unknown.
More Than Just Numbers
While we call them the "Old 300," there were actually 297 families and a few single dudes thrown in for good measure. And let's not forget, the number 300 is a bit of a historical exaggeration. It's like saying you have a "million" friends.
These pioneers were tough as nails. They had to deal with everything from Comanche raids to unpredictable weather. And let's not forget the whole "Mexico-becoming-independent" thing that threw a wrench in their plans. But they persevered, and their legacy is the foundation of modern Texas.
So, What Happened to Them?
Well, they did what Texans do best: they multiplied. Like, a lot. Their descendants are scattered all over the state, and some of them probably think they’re related to Davy Crockett.
Fun Fact: Many of the Old 300 were of British descent, bringing their own unique cultural flavor to the mix. So, next time you're eating barbecue, thank an Englishman (kind of).
How to Become an Old 300 Expert
How to find out if you’re related to the Old 300? Start digging through old family records and consider joining the Descendants of Austin’s Old 300 organization.How to appreciate their legacy? Visit historical markers, learn about Texas history, and most importantly, eat some good barbecue.How to impress your friends with Old 300 trivia? Read up on Texas history, watch a few Westerns (for atmosphere), and practice your drawl.How to contribute to preserving their story? Support historical societies, volunteer at local museums, and share their story with others.How to feel a deep connection to Texas? Learn about the Old 300, visit their descendants, and embrace the spirit of the Lone Star State.
