Sam Houston, Twice-signed Document Collage

September 15, 2021

This stunning new arrival would make the perfect addition to a Texas home or office. The custom piece celebrates the third president of the Republic of Texas, Sam Houston.

Sam Houston was a soldier, an important leader of the Texas Revolution, and an American politician. Houston is considered by many as the father of the Republic of Texas. This custom piece celebrates him and his life.

The collage features a document that was signed twice by Houston himself, dating to April 4, 1844. The document is an order to reimburse Dr. Jack Shackelford for his purchase of "1 Box Sperm Candles." Shackelford had made this purchase earlier in August 1842 as he helped the Republic defend against the Mexican invasions of that year.

The document reads in full: "Genl Sam Houston, For Executive Contingents, to J. Shackelford, August 11, 1842, To 1 Box Sperm Candles 36.3 lbs 759 $27.56 par funds." Below the text of the invoice, Houston writes, "Approved 4th Apl. 1844 Sam Houston" with his distinctive paraph. Over the top of text he adds his bold signature ordering to "pay this, Sam Houston," again adding his elaborate paraph. "J. Shackelford" is written in the lower right corner.

Houston continues to be celebrated throughout the United States for his role in forming Texas. During the Texas Revolution, as the region fought for independence from Mexico, Houston proved himself a great military leader. Despite the crushing defeat at the Alamo, being outnumbered and under-equipped, Houston managed to lead his soldiers to capture the Mexican General Santa Anna, effectively ending the revolution. Houston served as both the first and third president of Texas before it became part of the United States and then as one of the first two Texan senators.

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