James Norman Smith
"Uncle Jimmy the Peacemaker." Son of Sgt. James Turner Smith, veteran of American Revolution. Born and educated in North Carolina. Lived for 32 years in Tennessee, where he taught James K. Polk, later a U.S. President. Taught first school in area now De Witt County, 1840 (year he came to Texas). Surveyed De Witt County; was first county clerk. Organized Presbyterian churches at Victoria, Hochheim, Clinton, Peebles Ranch, Mill Creek, Live Oak, and Cuero. Organized first Masonic Lodge in county. At 1857 political rally, introduced old Tennessee friend, Sam Houston.
29.0912° N, 97.2874° W
Where to Find It
at Presbyterian Church, 302 North McLeod Street, Cuero
Nearby Markers
- <0.1 mi NE First Presbyterian Church of Cuero Cuero
- 0.1 mi W First United Methodist Church of Cuero Cuero
- 0.1 mi SW St. Michael's Catholic Church Cuero
- 0.1 mi NW De Witt County Courthouse Cuero
- 0.1 mi N The Bates-Sheppard House Cuero
- 0.1 mi NW Honoring Texas Confederate General August C. Buchel Cuero