The Texas Irish Empresarios and their Colonies: Power & Hewetson, McMullen & McGloin. Refugio--San Patricio

by William H. Oberste

Hardcover Faux Leather 310 pages with 3 plates and 7 maps (4 folding). Condition Very Good Dust Jacket Good. Stated second edition 1973. Elegant blue faux leather boards and gilt embossing shows off this Clean, tight, square copy with no marks, highlights or bookplates. Previous owner's signature on front endsheet. Book Well kept and carefully stored in unread condition. Slight shelf wear. Edges have the usual yellowing. Top edge spotted. Pages are lightly toned with minor signs of wear and/or age. An unclipped dust jacket with original pricetag is discolored with age shows the usual shelf wear - tears, stains, wrinkles and chips. Not an ex-library, book club or remainder copy.

A captivating exploration of the Irish influence in Texas colonization during the 19th century.

The book focuses on the lives and endeavors of Irish empresarios who played pivotal roles in shaping Texas history. James Power, James Hewetson, John McMullen, and James McGloin secured land grants and established colonies in Texas. These empresarios were not only notable themselves but also left lasting legacies through their descendants.

Refugio and San Patricio counties became centers of Irish settlement, where families built homes, cultivated farms, and contributed to local economies. Oberste provides insights into the challenges faced by these colonists, including interactions with Mexican authorities, conflicts with indigenous peoples, and the intricacies of daily life. Readers discover the hardships endured by these pioneers—ranging from conflicts with indigenous groups to political tensions. Despite adversity, the Irish colonists persevered, leaving a lasting impact on Texas. Their legacy includes not only physical landmarks but also cultural contributions, such as music, language, and traditions.

"Texas Irish Empresarios and Their Colonies" weaves together historical accounts, archival documents, and personal narratives. Through Oberste's meticulous research, readers gain a deeper understanding of the Irish immigrant experience in Texas. This book stands as a tribute to the resilience, determination, and enduring spirit of those who shaped Texas history. For those interested in the intersection of Irish heritage and Texas colonization, this work provides a fascinating exploration of the past.