Independence
by Stephen Stookey
Title
Independence
Artist
Stephen Stookey
Medium
Photograph - Photography
Description
The history of Independence, TX, reaches back to the original settlers of the famed Austin Colony. John P. Cole settled in the area in 1824, lending his name to the original community--Cole's Settlement. The town changed its name to Independence shortly after the Republic of Texas declared independence from Mexico at nearby Washington-on-the-Brazos on 2 March 1836. Independence emerged as an early center of wealth and influence in Texas leading into the 1850s. The town thrived on the cotton industry and collegiate education. Baylor University (Baylor Male College & Baylor Female College) opened its doors in Independence in 1845. Gen. Sam Houston called Independence home in the 1850s. The fortunes of Independence, however, changed in the aftermath of the Civil War when the railroad bypassed the city. With the town in decline both Baylor University and Baylor Female College relocated by the close of the 1880s-- Baylor University moved to Waco; Baylor Female College settled in Belton.
Today, the memory of Independence is preserved by the few remaining residents and businesses, historic churches [including Independence Baptist Church & Liberty Baptist Church], the Texas Baptist Historical Museum, Old Baylor Park, and, of course, the annual celebration of America's Independence Day deep in the heart of Texas!
Image captured with a Canon 5D Mark III & Canon 24-105 f/4L IS USM lens.
FAA Featured Image:
Old and New group
4/15/2014
FAA Featured Image:
Canon 5D I or II or III
4/17/2014
FAA Featured Image:
Rock the Sales group
5/26/2014
BAYLOR DISCOUNT SPECIAL: Use discount code LNLMFA on any image in the Baylor Gallery (including new McLane Stadium art). Limited to 25 customers. This special will move quickly! Decorate your dorm, home, office, Man Cave, or Bear Den with great Baylor-themed art! Sic 'Em Bears!
Uploaded
April 15th, 2014
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