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            This is the story of Stephen F. Austin and his request for a colony in Texas for a book called “Fly on a Texas Wall–Where would you like to be a fly on a wall in Texas history to see what really happened?” Comments from the fly on his shoulder.

January 1821 – Stephen, dead broke, moves to New Orleans. Fly—Ooh, goody! Fish heads!

April 1821 – Stephen finds job training as lawyer. Fly–Even better! Dead bodies!

May 1821 –Stephen certain Texas colony won’t work. Fly—What’s in Texas? Plenty of fish heads here.

June 10, 1821 –Stephen’s father dies, leaves colony to him. Fly—We gotta go to Texas?

July 1821 – Stephen joins Erasmo Seguin in Texas. Fly—Great! Cow manure!

August 1821 – Stephen tours Texas with Manuel Becerra. Fly—Not bad, a little dry.

March 1822 – Stephen goes to Mexico City. Fly—1300 miles? Plenty of horse manure!

April 1822—Stephen in independent Mexico City. Fly—Wow! Big City! More manure!

May 1822—Stephen gives plan to Emperor Agustín I. Fly—Great digs! Good food!

August 1822—First colonization law-4,600 acres, for free. Fly—The Gringos are coming!

October 1822—Stephen plays both sides as revolts start. Fly—Bring on the bloodshed!

November 1822 –Emperor ends Congress, signs colonization bill. Fly—What? No blood?

December 1822—Generals rise in revolt, Agustín still in power. Fly—Dang it! Still no blood!

January 1823—Stephen’s grant approved, needs Emperor’s signature. Fly—Quit pacing!

February 1823—Grant needs more details, Emperor’s cabinet resigns. Fly—Oh, for God’s sake!

March 1823—New Revolutionary 3-Man Junta, new Congress. Fly—Would you just get it done?

April 1823—Grant approved by new liberal Congress. Fly—Hallelujah! Back to Texas!

June 1823 –Stephen headed home, Empresario of Texas. Fly—San Felipe? Where’s the glory?

August 1823—Stephen’s perseverance and fortitude won him the contract. Fly—All that for this?