Charles Edward Travis, born in Claiborne, Alabama, on August 8, 1829, was the son of Texas Revolution leader William Barret Travis and Rosanna Cato. Charles had a difficult childhood but became a Texas Ranger and legislator after his father died in the Alamo. Historical events and family ties molded his legacy.
Early Life
Charles Edward Travis was a historical figure nurtured in his father’s shadow. He resided in New Orleans with his mother after the Alamo’s fall and then with relatives in Texas.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| August 8, 1829 | Born in Claiborne, Alabama |
| 1836 | Father died at the Battle of the Alamo |
| 1841 | Lived in New Orleans with mother and stepfather |
Military Career
Since joining the Texas Rangers, he has served with distinction. Travis’s dedication to the military earned him the rank of Captain.
| Year | Position |
|---|---|
| 1854 | Appointed to the 2nd Cavalry |
| 1856 | Court-martialed, gaining national attention |
| 1860 | Continued service, but faced controversies |
Political Involvement
In addition to the military, Charles Edward entered politics. His service in the Texas Legislature from 1853 to 1854 showed his commitment to community and state development.
| Year | Position |
|---|---|
| 1853-1854 | Elected to the Texas Legislature |
| 1856 | Involved in political controversies |
| 1860 | Continued involvement in state politics |
Family Background
Charles Edward Travis was born into a historic family. William Barret Travis, a Texas Revolution leader, and Rosanna Cato, his mother, shaped him. Charles’ mother and stepfather, Dr. Samuel B. Cloud, reared him after his father’s death.
| Family Member | Relationship | Notable Facts |
|---|---|---|
| William Barret Travis | Father | Hero of the Alamo |
| Rosanna Cato | Mother | Raised Charles after his father’s death |
| Dr. Samuel B. Cloud | Stepfather | Supported Charles’s upbringing |
| Susan Isabella Travis | Sister | Born after Charles; contributed to family lore |
Personal Life
Charles Edward’s complicated personal life reflected his upbringing. He faced several challenges after the Alamo, including familial and military respect.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1854 | Married, but faced personal challenges |
| 1860 | Death, leaving behind a legacy of service |
Court-Martial
His 1856 court-martial was a major event in Charles’s life. This spectacular trial brought attention to military leaders’ struggles at the time.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 1856 | Court-martial convened at Fort Mason |
| 1856 | Gained national attention due to the trial |
| 1860 | Continued to navigate the aftermath |
Legacy
Charles Edward Travis’s legacy is intertwined with his father’s and Texas history. His story illustrates the problems descendants of historical individuals have in defining themselves.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Influence on Texas History | Remembered for military and legislative contributions |
| Family Heritage | Son of a renowned Texas hero |
| Historical Impact | Reflects the era’s turbulent events |
FAQ
What became to Charles Edward Travis after the Alamo?
Charles stayed with his mother and stepfather in New Orleans after the Alamo before joining the Texas Rangers and legislature.
Did Charles Edward Travis have siblings?
His sister, Susan Isabella Travis, was born a few years later.
Why was Charles Edward’s court-martial significant?
His 1856 court-martial made headlines and highlighted military officials’ struggles.
How did Charles Edward Travis influence Texas politics?
Charles advocated for his neighborhood in the Texas Legislature from 1853 to 1854.
