A Narrow Escape - Burnet Park, Baytown, TX
Posted by: 
jhuoni
N 29° 46.868 W 095° 03.078
15R E 301702 N 3296296
Burnet Park was once Oakland, the Burnet homesite. It is now a community park. A series of informative markers highlight the life of David G. Burnet, the First President of the Republic of Texas.
Waymark Code: WMXXCF
Location: Texas, United States
Date Posted: 03/12/2018
Views: 0
David G. Burnet - Statesman
A Narrow Escape
In 1836, David G. Burnet and his interim government of the infant Republic of Texas fled from Washington-on-the-Brazos to Harrisburg, Texas, just days before the arrival of Santa Anna's Army. Warned by Sam Houston of Santa Anna’s approach, the government fled once more to Galveston.
Burnett was one of the last members of the new government to board The Flash, a privateer commanded by Luke A. Falvel which would ferry the new government to Galveston. Burnett was delayed when he and his wife went to a warehouse to gather their belongings. Suddenly one of his servants galloped up, excitedly shouting, “Make haste, Mr. Burnet, the Mexicans are coming!”
The Burnets had two of their children with them as well as their friends and servants as they pushed their small boat away from the shore. Mexican General Almonte arrived soon after the boat began rowing away. Though he recognized Burnet standing in the boats bow, he refrained from shooting out of respect for the presence of Burnett's wife, Hannah.
Santa Anna burned Harrisburg later that day, April 17, 1836.
About the Park
David G. Burnet Memorial Park is a 6.3 acre park located east of the Lynchburg Ferries north landing. This historic park is named after David G. Burnet, first President of the Republic of Texas. In addition to conventional park amenities there is a 1/4 mile jogging trail, educational plaza, historical marker, plaques and kiosks emphasizing the history of the park as Burnets home site and the shared history with the Lynchburg ferry and San Jacinto battleground. Also on site is pavilion replica of the Burnet homestead. Take time to visit the Park to learn more about David G. Burnet and the role he and others played in Texas history.