David Abner facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
David Abner Sr.
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| Texas State Representative for District 5 (Harrison and Rusk counties) | |
| In office January 13, 1874 – March 15, 1875 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born | 1826 Selma, Alabama, U.S. |
| Died | 1902 (aged 75–76) Marshall, Texas, U.S. |
| Political party | Republican |
| Children | David Abner Jr. |
| Profession | Politician, farmer, educator |
David Abner Sr. (1826–1902) was an important American politician. He served in the Texas House of Representatives. David Abner Sr. was born into slavery in Selma, Alabama. He later became a key leader in Texas politics.
Contents
David Abner's Early Life and Freedom
David Abner Sr. was born in 1826. When he was 17, in 1843, he was moved to Upshur County. This area is in East Texas. After the American Civil War, he gained his freedom. This was due to the Emancipation Proclamation.
He then moved to Marshall in Harrison County. This is also in East Texas. In Marshall, he first rented land and a mule. He rented them from the sister of his former owner. After a few years, he was able to buy the farm. He worked hard and became successful.
David Abner's Political Journey
David Abner Sr. played a big role in politics. In 1873, he was chosen for an important committee. This was for the first "Colored Men's State Convention." Later, he was elected as the treasurer for Harrison County.
Serving in the Texas Legislature
In 1874, David Abner was elected to the state legislature. He represented Harrison and Rusk counties. This meant he helped make laws for Texas. He was part of the Fourteenth Texas Legislature. He also served on the Education Committee. This committee focused on schools and learning.
Helping Write the Texas Constitution
While serving in the legislature, another big event happened. In August 1875, a meeting was called. Its purpose was to rewrite the 1869 Texas State Constitution. This is the main set of rules for the state.
David Abner was one of three people chosen to attend this meeting. He was the only Republican at the convention. He voted for a rule that stopped the state from spending money to encourage immigration. After his time in the state legislature, he continued to be active. In 1876, he was the vice president of the Republican State Convention.
Life After Politics
David Abner Sr. also cared a lot about education. In 1881, he helped start Bishop College. He was one of its first trustees. A trustee helps manage and guide a college.
His son, David Abner Jr., followed in his footsteps. In 1884, David Abner Jr. made history. He was the first Black man to graduate from a Texas college. Later, he became the president of Guadalupe College. He then became president of Conroe College.
David Abner Sr. passed away in 1902. He died in Marshall, Texas. He is buried there in a family cemetery.
