On February 19, 1846, a historic moment unfolded in Austin as Texas President Anson Jones ordered the Lone Star Flag lowered for the last time, declaring, “The Republic of Texas is no more.”
February 19, known as Texas Statehood Day, marks the formal transfer of sovereignty from the Republic of Texas to the State of Texas. While Texas was legally admitted into the United States on December 29, 1845, authority was officially handed over on this day in 1846. After nearly a decade as an independent nation, Texas took its place as the 28th state of the Union. At the end of the ceremony on the steps of the old log Capitol building, the Stars and Stripes were raised, symbolizing the beginning of a new chapter in Texas history.
In his farewell speech, Anson Jones, the last president of the Republic of Texas, reflected on the bright future he envisioned for the Lone Star State: “With such a population as Texas possesses, characterized as it is with great intelligence and enterprise… it will be her own fault if she does not reach an importance and a social elevation, not surpassed by any community on earth.” Over the past 167 years, Texans have met that challenge, building a legacy of excellence admired around the world.
