Returning to Texas in 1836, here is an up-to-date history as of that year: The History of Texas; or; the Emigrant's Farmer's and Politician's Guide... by David B. Edward. Actually, it cuts off in 1835, slightly before independence was declared, though published in 1836. Edwards provides information about physical features, towns, and political events in Texas. Edwards also discusses the navigability of the Rio del Norte (Rio Grande) and the possibility of it forming the border. This would eventually come to pass, but not without a war between America and Mexico to establish that boundary. The book contains a map of Texas as it was (see image this page). Item 67. $11,000.

The border would be decided as a result of the Mexican War, with future President Zachary Taylor being sent out by Washington to establish the Rio Grande as the boundary. Mexico declared the Nueces River, farther north, to be the boundary. Taylor and his troops had gathered at Corpus Christi, along the Nueces, and in early 1846, they were ordered to move south to the Rio Grande. Item 118 is a broadside dated March 8, 1846, in Spanish, headed Quartel General, Exercito de Ocupacion, Corpus Christi... In it, General Taylor seeks to reassure the ethnically Mexican population south of the Nueces that his troops will exercise the utmost discipline in safeguarding the rights and security of the people living in this region. Item 188. $3,750.

The William Reese Company may be reached at 203-789-8081 or

amorder@reeseco.com. Their website is www.williamreesecompany.com.