Consider the story of Nicholas Henry Darnell. Who was this man memorialized by this plaque? Nicholas Henry Darnell was a significant figure in both Tennessee and Texas. He uniquely served as Speaker of the House in both the Republic of Texas and the State of Texas.
The Nicholas Henry Darnell Plaque stands as a testament to his contributions. Darnell’s life began in Williamson County, Tennessee. Born on April 20, 1807, he was the son of Nicholas and Nannie Flewellen Darnell. William Flewellen, his grandfather, played a key role in his upbringing.
Darnell’s political career started in Tennessee. In 1835, he narrowly lost a race for the Tennessee legislature by only eight votes. However, in 1837, he won unopposed. His time in Tennessee was short-lived as he resigned in 1838.
Darnell moved to San Augustine, Texas. There, he was elected to the Sixth and Seventh Congresses of the Republic of Texas. By November 24, 1842, he had risen to become Speaker of the House.
Texas’s annexation marked a new chapter. Darnell ran for Lieutenant Governor against Albert C. Horton. Initially, Darnell won by a few votes, but he refused to take the oath until all votes were verified. Horton was eventually declared the winner.
In 1858, Darnell relocated to Dallas. He again served as Speaker of the House during the Ninth Legislature. However, his commitment led him to resign in 1862 to join the Confederate Army.
Darnell became colonel of the Eighteenth Texas Cavalry. His regiment’s flag held special significance. Made at his home, it was later placed in the Capitol at Austin.
After the Civil War, Darnell continued to serve Texas. He was assistant doorkeeper of the House of Representatives from 1874 to 1875. In 1876, he represented Dallas, Tarrant, and Ellis counties at the Constitutional Convention. He also served in the House of Representatives for Tarrant County.
Nicholas Henry Darnell was also deeply involved in the Masonic Lodge. He helped establish the lodge in San Augustine. He held every office within the Grand Lodge of Texas. This included the esteemed position of Grand Master in 1844.
Darnell’s personal life included his wife, Isabella Cozart. They had seven children together. Darnell died in Fort Worth in July 1885. He was initially buried in the Masonic Cemetery in Dallas, a final tribute to his masonic affiliations.
The Nicholas Henry Darnell Plaque commemorates a life of service. From Tennessee legislator to Confederate colonel. From Speaker of the House to Masonic leader. Darnell’s story reflects the complex history of Texas.