Robert Handy states that his indentured "negro boy" James Robinson journeyed with him to Texas in March 1835 or 1836 and that the two joined the army and saw action at the battle of San Jacinto. Handy recounts that "when a passport was offered him [Robinson] to return to his home and friends [in Philadelphia], he refused it and begged permission to remain and share the fate of those who met the Enemy." The petitioner further states that "while thousands of our citizens were retreating in panic and confusion to the United States, this single minded negro boy, though unacknowledged as a patriot, and bound by no ties of interest; still rose superior to every selfish consideration, and bravely breasted the storm of mexican invasion at the gloomiest hour of our fortunes." Handy asks the legislature to compensate Robinson for his bravery and services.
Result: Referred to special committee.
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Repository: Texas State Library-Archives Division, Austin, Texas
