John Rector Francis (1824 - 1911)

Born 5 Sep 1824 in Decatur, Morgan County, Alabama

Ancestors

Died 3 Jul 1911 at age 86 in Mesilla Park, Dona Ana, New Mexico

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Biography

John Rector Francis, born September 5, 1824 in Alabama, the oldest son of George and Margaret Ann Francis, came to Texas with his grandfather, Morgan Rector. He first settled on the Brazos River; later coming to Seguin, where he met and married Josefa Navarro March 30, 1854, whose family was held in high esteem, being prominent in the affairs of the colony. Her Uncle Jose Antonio was a signer of the Declaration of Independence of Texas.

Later the young couple moved to Live Oak, where John raised livestock. John heard of a railroad line that was due to come across Texas and invested heavily in land along the supposed route. The plan fell through and he eventually had to sell much of the land to pay taxes on it. He, along with his six brothers, enlisted in the militia on October 7, 1861, as a 4th Corporal, with the Fort Merrill Guards, Mounted Co. Live Oak County 29th Brigade, Texas.

John Rector Francis was known for his piety and zeal. He distributed Bibles and religious literature, traveling from town to town in a great circuit over south and southwest Texas. His close association with his grandfather, Morgan Rector, shaped his moral and religious values. He was much loved by all who knew him.

Sources

source:Gloria Garvey McQuinn. Johnston - Menefee and Related Families