A new historical marker through the Texas Historical Commission could soon be placed on the Bastrop County Courthouse square.

The details

The 27-by-42-inch historical marker—which would be affixed to a 3.5-inch diameter post—would recognize Jeremiah J. Hamilton , who represented Bastrop and Fayette counties in the 12th Texas Legislature from 1870-71.

Hamilton was born enslaved in 1838 and was brought to Texas in 1847.

“He was illegally taught to read while a slave,” according to a staff document from the Texas Historical Commission. “After emancipation, Hamilton taught school, advocated for Bastrop County Black farmers, registered voters and served as a land trustee.”

Hamilton represented the 26th District as a Republican.

“After his term, he stayed in Austin, working as a carp

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