Founder (1761–1821) of the American lead industry, father of Texas pioneer Stephen F. Austin, and the first man to obtain permission to bring Anglo-American settlers into Spanish Texas. DS, signed “M. Austin,” one page, 7.25 x 5.25, February 11, 1802. Document reads, in full: “Please pay Mr. Jos. Pratt One Hundred & forty two pounds & half of lead out of the Lead in your hands of mine and this order shall be your Discharge for the same.” Document is affixed to a larger off-white sheet and framed to an overall size of 10.5 x 8.5. In very good to fine condition, with two horizontal folds, scattered toning and soiling, a few creases, and light show-through from writing and two mounting remnants on reverse. In 1789, Austin won the Virginia state contract to provide a lead roof for the new capitol building. His innovative business and mining strategies earned Austin credit for founding the lead industry in the United States. After falling into financial peril in 1812, Austin would move to Texas in 1820 in pursuit of other business opportunities. After receiving permission to bring 300 colonists to Texas, Austin returned to Missouri to find residents for his new colony, only to die two months after his arrival. He requested that his son, Stephen F. Austin, continue with the planned Texas colony—a measure that would earn Stephen a title as the ‘Father of Texas.’ The Robert Davis Collection, read more about Robert Davis. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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