John Austin Wharton (1806–1838) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids John Austin Wharton
Wharton County, Texas, was named for John A. Wharton and his brother William H. Wharton.
Texas Congressman
In office 1837–1838
Personal details
Born	April 1806 Nashville, Tennessee
Died	December 17, 1838 (aged 32) Texas
Political party	Conservative Party
Profession	Congressman Soldier Freemason

John Austin Wharton (born April 1806 – died December 17, 1838) was an important leader, lawyer, and soldier in early Texas history. He served as a top military helper, called the Adjutant General, at the famous Battle of San Jacinto.

After he passed away, the President of the Republic of Texas, David G. Burnet, gave a speech at his funeral. He said that Wharton was "the keenest blade on the field of San Jacinto." This meant Wharton was a very brave and important fighter. John Austin Wharton died while working in the Texas government. His nephew, also named John A. Wharton, who later became a general in the Confederate States Army, was named after him.

Early Life and Moving to Texas

John Austin Wharton was born in Nashville, Tennessee, in April 1806. When he was about 10 years old, he lost his parents. His uncle, Jesse Wharton, then raised him and his four brothers and sisters. His uncle made sure John received a good education.

His older brother, William H. Wharton, moved to Texas first, in 1827. John Austin Wharton followed him and arrived in Texas sometime between 1829 and 1833. At that time, Texas was still a part of Mexico.

Fighting for Texas Independence

When John Austin Wharton arrived in Texas, he quickly became a strong supporter of Texas becoming independent from Mexico. He went to important meetings and discussions that led to Texas declaring its independence on March 2, 1836.

He also helped start one of the first Freemason groups in Texas. Freemasonry is a social organization that focuses on brotherhood and helping others.

Hero of San Jacinto

In December 1835, Sam Houston, a key leader in the Texas Revolution, asked Wharton to go to New Orleans. His job was to get supplies for the upcoming fight against Mexico. Wharton was responsible for bringing two important cannons, known as the "Twin Sisters," to the Texian army.

Later, Houston made Wharton the Adjutant General on his staff. This meant Wharton was a chief assistant to the commander. Wharton fought bravely during the Battle of San Jacinto. This was a major battle where the Mexican leader, Antonio Lopez de Santa Ana, was captured. Thomas Rusk, who was Texas' Secretary of War, praised Wharton for his excellent service. Wharton also served as the Secretary of War for the new Republic of Texas in 1836.

After Texas Became Independent

After Texas won its independence, Wharton was elected to the Texas Congress. The Congress met in Houston. He served from 1836 to 1837 and led the Education Committee.

During this time, the Texas ship Independence was carrying Texas officials, including Wharton's brother, William H. Wharton. William was the Texas Minister to the United States. On April 17, 1837, Mexican navy ships captured the Independence. William H. Wharton was put in prison in Matamoros, Mexico.

John Austin Wharton tried to get his brother and other Texans released. But when he arrived in Mexico, he was also put in prison. Luckily, both Wharton brothers managed to escape and return to Texas.

John Austin Wharton became sick and passed away on December 17, 1838. He was buried in Founders Memorial Park in Houston. At his funeral, the President of the Republic of Texas gave a speech, calling Wharton "the keenest blade of San Jacinto."

Memorials

• Wharton County, Texas, a county in Texas, is named after John Austin Wharton and his brother.
• The Texan ship Wharton was named in honor of John Austin Wharton.