HISTORIC MARKER TO BE DEDICATED SATURDAY IN BURTON FOR MATTHEW GAINES
A new Texas Historical Marker will be dedicated on Saturday in Burton to honor one of the first African American lawmakers to serve in the Texas Legislature during Reconstruction.
The ceremony commemorating the marker for Senator Matthew Gaines will begin at 1 p.m. and will take place at the Long Life Brotherhood Club/Matson Park, 12419 East Branch Street. The event will be hosted by the Long Life Brotherhood Club and the Washington County Historical Commission.
Matthew Gaines was one of 23 African Americans elected to serve the 12th, 13th and 14th Texas Legislatures. Born enslaved in Louisiana, he was living after emancipation in Burton and working as a Baptist preacher. He was elected to the Senate in 1867 and was a strong advocate for African American constitutional rights. He is also considered instrumental in the creation of Texas A&M University and Prairie View A&M University.
The marker comes as part of a statewide initiative stemming from the passage of the Texas Black Reconstruction Legislators Act, Senate Bill 667, in the 88th Legislature.
Special guests for the ceremony will include Alicia Costello, Texas Historical Commission Historical Marker Program Historian; Dr. Tina B. Henderson, Texas Ten Historical Explorers President; and Lori A. Moore-Bartley, great-great-great granddaughter of Matthew Gaines.
Dr. Henderson said the marker is “a vital recognition of Matthew Gaines’ crucial legislative work, ensuring his impact on Texas history is known and celebrated by all communities, especially the young who need to see these powerful examples of leadership and advocacy.”
Following the dedication ceremony, Long Life Brotherhood will host an easter egg hunt from 2 to 4 p.m. Families will be able to meet the Easter Bunny and enjoy food, drinks, face painting, games and prizes. Admission is free.