Body of Pioneer Patriot Exhumed From Grave Here

The body of James Pinckney Henderson, first Governor of Texas, which has lain in a Congressional Cemetery grave for 72 years, was exhumed yesterday upon request of the Lone Star State and will be shipped to Austin tomorrow for burial on April 21, the anniversary of the State's independence.

Machinery has been in operation for some time to have the body of the Texan returned to his home for interment in the State cemetery. Senator Connally has been instrumental in obtaining permission for transfer. Although buried in a lead casket, it was found yesterday that the coffin was in such a state of decay that a new one had to be substituted before the remains could be shipped.

Although a native of Lincolnton, N.C., Henderson was a Texas patriot. He recruited a company for service in behalf of the Republic of Texas in 1836. Shortly afterward, upon being commissioned brigadier general, he returned to the United States and raised another company of volunteers at his own expense.

After Texas had won its independence, he served successively as attorney general and secretary of state and later as a diplomatic representative in negotiations with the United States for annexation. He was elected the first governor in 1846.

After serving as major general in the Mexican War and being given a sword by Congress for bravery, he was appointed to the United States Senate to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Thomas J. Rusk.

The Washington Post

Publishing date: April 11, 1930