That No-Man's-Land (or neutral ground, or the Sabine Free State) has an interesting history. Designed in the early 1800s as a buffer between French/Spanish/Anglo Louisiana and largely Spanish Texas, the agreement was never formally endorsed by either central government, but was an agreement between the military commanders to avoid encroaching on each other. That neutral ground had no government protection and so was populated by brigands, ne'er-do-wells, and other unsavory characters, along with a population of folks who just wanted to be left alone.
It's an interesting history, An attempt by two local commanders who wanted to keep hostility to a minimum, and it made an indelible stamp on the people that persists even now. Local folks are proud of that history, and revel in it.
4 comments:
My late father (1945-2013) told me about going over into LA as a teenager with his bootlegger Dad to bring back liquor into Texas. Looking at the map, the former Sabine Free State may well have been where they went to get it.
--Tennessee Budd
Future President Zachary Taylor was Commander of Fort Jessup in 1822. My ancestors are listed as soldiers on the troop roster. The original kitchen still stands at Fort Jessup, some of the buildings footing are there as is a recreation of the officers barracks. If you are in the area it is worth visiting.
President Taylor's son led the Confederates during the Red River Campaign. My great-great grandfather was with him at Burr Ferry defenses then at Pleasant Hill
Deacon in Louisiana
Deacon,
Been to Fort Jesup several times. We'd take the Scout troop and camp down the road once a year or so. I actually taught the re-enactors how to make beer bread in a dutch oven over a hardwood fire.
We're from Negreet, settled there in 1850s... So we've been there a while. Still have the original homestead too!
Post a Comment