Henry Percy Brewster facts for kids

Henry Percy Brewster was an important person in Texas history. He was born in 1816 and lived until 1884. Brewster was a lawyer, a statesman (meaning he helped lead the government), and a soldier. He bravely fought in two big wars: the Texas Revolution and the American Civil War. During the Civil War, he became a high-ranking colonel in the Confederate Army.

Henry Percy Brewster's Life Story

Early Life and Texas Revolution

Henry Percy Brewster was born in Laurens County, South Carolina. He studied law and started his career there. In 1836, he visited New Orleans and decided to join the new Texas Army.

When he arrived in Velasco, Texas, he was chosen to work for General Sam Houston. Brewster served as Houston's secretary. He was part of the important Battle of San Jacinto. After the battle, he went with General Houston, who was hurt, to New Orleans.

Working for the Texas Government

Later in 1836, Brewster came back to Texas. He briefly served as the acting Secretary of War and Navy. This was for President David G. Burnet. That same year, he started his own law practice in Brazoria.

In 1840, he became the District Attorney for his area. A District Attorney is a lawyer who works for the government. They bring legal cases against people accused of crimes. Brewster held this job until 1843.

Six years later, Governor of Texas George Tyler Wood chose him for an even bigger role. Brewster became the Attorney General of Texas. This means he was the state's chief legal officer. In 1855, Brewster moved to Washington, D.C. He worked there on international law cases.

Service in the Civil War

When the Civil War began, Brewster returned to Texas. He joined the Confederate Army as a captain. A captain is a military officer who leads a company of soldiers.

On September 11, 1861, he became an adjutant general for General Albert Sidney Johnston. An adjutant general helps a commanding general with important tasks. The next spring, he became General Johnston's chief of staff. This means he was the main assistant to the general.

Brewster was with General Johnston when he was killed. This happened at the Battle of Shiloh in April 1862. After that, Brewster worked for General John Bell Hood. He rose through the ranks to become a colonel.

Later Life and Public Service

When the Civil War ended in 1865, Brewster went back to Texas. He practiced law in San Antonio. In 1881, Governor John Ireland gave him another important job.

Brewster became the Commissioner of Insurance, Statistics, and History. He held this position until he passed away in Austin in 1884. His body was taken to Galveston and buried in the Gulf of Mexico.

Honors and Legacy

Brewster County, Texas, was named in his honor in 1887. This shows how important Henry Percy Brewster was to Texas history.