COLONEL GRAY: Reading one man's diary has given 
historians a better look at an important date in Texas 
history. We'll tell you more just ahead on Passport to 
Texas. 
____________________________________________________________

Passport to Texas from Texas Parks and Wildlife

Colonel William Fairfax Gray came to Texas, from Virginia 
in 1835. His main purpose was to secure land 
investments, but a year later his presence in the state 
would help document one of the most important events 
in our history -- the signing of the Texas Declaration of 
Independence.

"He is one of the single most important eyewitnesses to the 
events of the convention." :04

Walt Bailey is a park interpreter at the Washington-on-the 
Brazos State Historic Site, the location of this historic 
event. He says even though Colonel Gray wasn't a 
delegate at the convention, he kept a diary of the entire 
proceedings.

"It provides the best source of information ... it has given us just 
a wonderful treasure trove of the story of the convention, and 
helps us get in touch with the delegates and appreciate the 
courage and sacrifice that it took to found the nation of Texas." 
:20

A copy of Colonel Gray's 200-page diary can be viewed at 
the park during the Texas Independence Day celebration 
March 4 & 5. Details about the celebration are in the 
calendar section of the Texas Parks and Wildlife web site.

Although Colonel Grey did not go into politics himself 
after the convention, his role as an observer would make 
him an important representative in the archives of Texas 
history. 

That's our show for today. For Texas Parks and Wildlife, 
I'm Cecilia Nasti. 


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