Gen. George W. Terrell, Republic of Texas Statesman
historic place
In Austin, Travis County, a historical marker erected in 1936 by the State of Texas commemorates Gen. George W. Terrell. George Whitfield Terrell was a prominent figure during the Republic of Texas era. Born in Kentucky around 1803, he moved to Texas by 1840. Terrell held several high-ranking positions. He served as a district attorney and later as a district judge, which included duties as an associate justice of the Supreme Court of the Republic of Texas. He was also the Attorney General for the Republic. Beyond his legal roles, Terrell acted as an Indian commissioner, notably negotiating the Treaty of Bird's Fort in 1843. He also served as a diplomat, representing the Republic of Texas as chargé d'affaires to nations including France, Great Britain, and Spain between 1844 and 1845. Gen. George W. Terrell died in Austin in 1846 and is buried in Oakwood Cemetery. His career highlights the early governmental and diplomatic efforts of the Republic of Texas.