The Convention At Washington-On-The-Brazos - Burnet Park, Baytown, TX
Posted by: jhuoni
N 29° 46.865 W 095° 03.079
15R E 301700 N 3296291
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: WMXXCD
Location: Texas, United States
Date Posted: 03/12/2018
Views: 2
David G. Burnet - Statesman
The Convention at Washington-On-The-Brazos
The great irony of David G Burnet appointment as president of the Republic of Texas was that he wasn't actually supposed to be at the March 1836 convention at Washington-on-the-Brazos in the first place. His initial efforts as a Statesman were focused on defining Texas's place in the government of Mexico, not toward succession. His political position made him unpopular with his fellow Texans who favored independence; thus, he was not elected to the Consultation in 1835 or the Convention in 1836.
Burnet arrived in Washington-on-the-Brazos on March 10, 1836 on a lawyer's errand, 8 days after the delegates had declared their independence from Mexico. His clients John and William Smith, had been charged with murder and Burnet went to the convention to plead for their pardons.
He was approached by a member of the Convention while tying his horse. The delegates were locked in disagreement over appointing a new president and the conventioneer ask Burnett if he would allow his name to be placed on the ballot. Burnet thought about the matter for 5 days before agreeing.
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.