This story is based on true events. It is 1832 on a generational farm near Frankfurt, Germany. The Jacob Schmitt family had lived under the rule of a ruthless, autocratic governor when they heard of people going to America where they could start a new life. Philip, the oldest child, was 12 years old when his family left Germany. They traveled bravely across the Atlantic to New York City, and then on to Matagorda, Texas. When they settled in 1833 the territory was owned by Mexico. At 14 years old, Philip enlisted in Sam Houston's army during the Texas Revolutionary War. Several years later Philip, his wife, his daughter, and his brother decided to leave the family ranch and settle in the wilderness of central Texas. It took them 4 months to make the 300 mile journey. They had oxen wagons, horses, cattle and possessions. They endured many obstacles, including crossing the Colorado River with everything and everyone. You can get an image of the brave people and the difficulties they faced in their arduous journey. These settlers were part of the birth, growth, and history of Texas. I am the great-great-great grandson of Jacob Schmitt.