Settled the Mexican land that is now Texas. Austin came to an agreement with the Mexicans to settle in their land, and in 1821, he brought 300 families to settle in the area. The Mexicans felt the settlers would provide a buffer between them and the Indians. The agreement between Austin and the Mexicans stipulated that the settlers would speak Spanish, practice Roman Catholicism and not own slaves. Between 1822 and 1830 he presented Texan demands for autonomy to the Mexican government; the negotiations proved difficult, and the Mexicans went so far as to imprison Austin. The settlers eventually decided not to comply, which led to wars and the slaughter at the Alamo in 1836. DS, signed 'S. F. Austin,' one page, 8.5 x 10.5, January 11, 1836 - 43 days before the seige of the Alamo. Texian Loan certificate for Robert Triplett who loaned the State of Texas 320 to be paid back over five years at a rate of eight percent per annum, signed in black ink by S. F. Austin, B. J. Archer, and Wm. H. Wharton. A cancellation cut to middle portion of document, resulting in a small triangular area of paper loss, some light edge and fold toning and a partial separation along lower fold, otherwise fine condition. COA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
