In November of 2007, a historic cistern was discovered in West Columbia, Texas on the site of the first capital of the Republic of Texas. This discovery generated a great deal of excitement, especially after Dr. Alston Thoms, anthropology professor at Texas A&M University, and his team verified that the cistern could have dated to the early nineteenth century.
Consequently, the highly regarded archeological firm, Prewitt & Associates, was hired to conduct archeological investigations. In the preliminary report, Doug Boyd , vice-president of Prewitt & Assoc. makes this statement:
“Without doubt, the First Capitol site is significant in the history of our State…”
Currently the Capitol of Texas Park is being developed on the site. It is a 10-foot-wide, 337-foot-long walkway with 20 granite markers telling the history of the Republic of Texas. The historic cistern has been incorporated into the park. Donors should donate to the CFBC: Capitol of Texas Park Fund.
Capitol Park
19th Century artifacts for cistern.