George Lafayette Ramsdale (1820-1884), a native of Devonshire, England, came to Texas by 1836 and enlisted in the Army during the War for Independence from Mexico. After the Revolution, Ramsdale, his wife, Elizabeth (1825-1909), and their children lived in Harrison, Rusk, Houston, and Bosque counties. During the Civil War, he served the Confederacy by protecting the frontier. In 1866 the family moved to Wise County, where he farmed and operated a tannery. His military service, adventuresome spirit, and community leadership exemplified the state's pioneer heritage.