The Texas Navy played a crucial role in the fight for Texas independence from Mexico. It was formed in November 1835 by the General Council of the Provisional Government of Texas, primarily to protect the coastline and disrupt Mexican supply lines. This decision came in response to increasing hostilities and the need for a naval force to support the Texan struggle for independence.

The original commander of the Texas Navy was Commodore Charles E. Hawkins. However, due to illness, he was replaced by Commodore Edwin W. Moore in 1839, who is often credited with transforming the navy into a more effective fighting force. Despite Moore’s efforts, he faced significant opposition from President Sam Houston, who was skeptical of the navy’s value and wary of its expenses. Houston’s opposition was so intense that he even issued an arrest warrant for Moore at one point.

The Texas Navy initially consisted of four schooners: the Liberty, the Invincible, the Independence, and the Brutus. These ships were relatively small but agile, and they played a pivotal role in the early stages of the conflict.

Texan sloop-of-war Austin

As the war progressed, the navy expanded to include additional ships, including the flagship Austin and the sloop-of-war San Antonio. The Texas Navy’s crew was notably diverse, including sailors from various backgrounds such as Americans, Europeans, and even former pirates, reflecting the adventurous spirit of the Texan cause.

The Texas Navy saw significant action during the Texas Revolution, with notable battles including:

Battle of Matamoros (1836): The Invincible and Brutus captured the Mexican ship Pelicano, disrupting Mexican supply lines.

Battle of Campeche (1843): Under Commodore Moore’s command, the Texas Navy engaged in a fierce battle against the Mexican Navy and the larger, more powerful steam frigate Montezuma. Despite being outgunned, the Texans managed to inflict substantial damage on the Mexican fleet, showcasing their naval prowess. Moore was known for his innovative naval tactics, which allowed the smaller Texan ships to punch above their weight in battles against larger Mexican vessels.

These battles helped secure crucial supply lines and support for the Texan army, contributing to the ultimate success of the Texas Revolution.

The Texas Navy was officially disbanded in 1846, following the annexation of Texas by the United States. The U.S. Navy absorbed the remaining ships and personnel. The disbandment was driven by several factors, including the financial strain of maintaining the navy and the integration of Texas into the United States, which rendered an independent Texan naval force unnecessary. The navy had struggled with funding throughout its existence, with the provisional government having limited resources and often relying on privateers and volunteers to supplement its forces.

The Texas Navy’s legacy is a testament to the determination and resourcefulness of the early Texan settlers. Despite facing significant challenges, they managed to establish a naval force that played a crucial role in securing Texas’ independence and left an enduring mark on the state’s history. The Texas Navy’s efforts not only disrupted Mexican supply lines but also showcased the innovative tactics and diverse makeup of its crew, embodying the adventurous and resilient spirit of the Texan cause.