David Crockett

David Crockett Painting by William Henry Huddle, 1889.

David (Davy) Crockett was one of the most famous figures of his day. Born in Tennessee in 1786, Crockett had many adventures in his youth as a frontiersman and military scout. In the 1820s, he entered Tennessee politics and eventually served two terms in Congress. His reputation as a sharpshooter, hunter, and storyteller grew with his success, and many fanciful accounts of his life were published, both by Crockett and by those seeking to capitalize on his fame.

By 1835, Crockett had become disillusioned with politics and set off to explore Texas, departing Tennessee with the famous quote: "You may all go to hell and I will go to Texas." Crockett fell in love with Texas and joined the volunteers in the fight for Texas independence. He died at the Battle of the Alamo on March 6, 1836.

Handbook of Texas article on David Crockett

The Texas State Library and Archives includes in its collection these claims made against the Republic of Texas by David Crockett and his heirs.

Click on image for larger image and transcript.
Claim on behalf of Crockett for $60 for sale of two rifles, January 1836 (Battle of the Alamo not yet begun)

Click on image for larger image and transcript.
Letter from Crockett asking payment of claims, February, 1836 (Santa Anna marching on the Alamo)

Click on image for larger image and transcript.
Claim of Crockett's heirs, December, 1836 (six months after the fall of the Alamo)

Click on image for larger image and transcript.
Public Debt Claim for David Crockett's widow, 1854 - In December 1854, Elizabeth Crockett, widow of David Crockett, received this certificate from the State of Texas, entitling her to the sum of $24 owed to her late husband for his service at the Battle of the Alamo.