Often called the “Mother of Texas,” Jane Wilkinson Long led an eventful life on the Texas frontier. Her life as a pioneer, mother, widow, businesswoman, and revolutionary is brought to life for children in
Jane Wilkinson Long: Texas Pioneer.
After being orphaned at a young age, Jane married Dr. James Long when she was only sixteen. Dr. Long dreamed of conquering “Tejas” and used his wife’s fortune to build an army. Jane and her family soon joined him on the Bolivar Peninsula, only to be left again as Dr. Long attempted to conquer Mexico. Alone on the frontier with only her slave to help her, Jane endured a brutal winter. With the coming of spring, Jane learned of her husband’s death in Mexico. Now a widow, Jane joined Stephen Austin’s pioneers in the Austin colony and obtained a land grant. She built an inn in Brazoria that soon became a meeting place for revolutionaries like Stephen Austin, William Barret Travis, and Sam Houston. Jane’s unflagging spirit helped her to build a life for herself and her family despite numerous setbacks.
About the Author
Neila Skinner Petrick has long been fascinated with Jane Wilkinson Long and has published another book about the famous Texan, Jane Long of Texas: 1798-1880, also available through Pelican. Jane Wilkinson Long: Texas Pioneer is Ms. Petrick’s first book for children.
About the Illustrator
Joyce Haynes has been drawing since an early age. Her work appears in numerous books, including Nana’s Rice Pie. She is also an illustrator for Highlights for Children magazine.
JANE WILKINSON LONG
Texas Pioneer
By Neila Skinner Petrick
Illustrated by Joyce Haynes
JUVENILE NONFICTION / Biography & Autobiography / Historical
JUVENILE NONFICTION / People & Places / United States / General
32 pp. 8 1/2 x 11
31 color illustrations
Ages 5-8
ISBN: 9781589801479 hc