Southern Historical Society Papers, Volume 9.
Reverend J. William Jones, Ed.

[224] ensign of that political independence, the glad tidings of the declaration of which, by a general convention of the people's representatives there assembled, had just been received. It proudly streamed over the hoary ramparts and time shattered battlements of the antiquated fortress of La Bahia, until the last rays of the setting sun were casting their “lessening light” against the gay turrets of the old chapel. Just as the “sunset gun” thundered forth its hoarse announcement of departing day, the usual attempt to ‘lower the colors’ was being made, when, by some unlucky mishap, the beautiful silken banner entangled in the halyards, and was torn into pieces. Only a small fragment remained adjusted to the flagstaff, and when Colonel Fannin evacuated Goliad to join General Houston, in accordance with received orders, the last remnant of the first “Flag of the Lone Star” was still fluttering at the top of the staff from which first floated the “Flag of Independence.”

At the defeat and capture of Santa Anna at the battle of San Jacinto the silver service of the wily commander was also captured, and some of the trophies of the victory, consisting of his massive spoons, forks, etc., were forwarded by General Rusk to Miss Troutman “in token of the regard she had inspired in the hearts of the stern,, scarred patriots of the revolution as they gazed upon the virgin ground and lone blue star of the flag she had wrought, and which had led on many of their brave compatriots to death, themselves to victory.”

On the meeting of the first Congress the flag of the Lone Star was adopted as the flag of the republic, and the seals of office were required to have the “Star” upon them, which then became the Coat-of-Arms of Texas.

A public recognition of the first flag of the Lone Star as having been brought to Texas by Ward's battalion from Georgia was made by General Memucan Hunt, the first minister from the Republic of Texas to the United States.

In February, 1845, a bill in favor of the annexation of Texas passed the United States Congress and was signed by the President. On the 4th of July following a convention assembled at Austin, the Texan capital, and assented to the terms proposed by the United States. A State Government was immediately formed, and henceforth the history of Texas is merged in that of the United States.