Emily West is a figure shrouded in mystery and legend, often referred to as the “Yellow Rose of Texas.” Her name has become synonymous with the song of the same name, which romanticizes her role in the Texas Revolution. However, separating fact from fiction is crucial in understanding the true story of Emily West.
Key Facts
- Identity and Background:
- Emily West was a free woman of color, possibly of mixed race.
- She was born in New Haven, Connecticut.
- There is speculation that her association with Mrs. Emily West de Zavala, the wife of Lorenzo de Zavala, may have influenced her name.
- Connection to Texas:
- In 1835, Emily West was contracted to work as an indentured servant for James Morgan in New York.
- She was brought to Texas by Colonel and Mrs. James Morgan.
- There is a legend that she was captured by Mexican General Santa Anna during the Battle of San Jacinto in 1836.
- According to the myth, she sent word of Santa Anna’s whereabouts to General Sam Houston and distracted Santa Anna, contributing to Houston’s victory.
- However, there is no reliable evidence to support this story.
- Post-Battle:
- After the Battle of San Jacinto, Emily West applied for and received a passport to return to her home in New York, possibly around 1837.
Identity and Background
Emily West was born around 1815 in New Haven, Connecticut. She was a free woman of color, possibly of mixed race. In 1835, she was contracted to work as an indentured servant for James Morgan in New York. She was brought to Texas by Colonel and Mrs. James Morgan, where she worked as a housekeeper at their hotel in Morgan’s Point.
Connection to Texas
The legend of Emily West is primarily associated with the Battle of San Jacinto in 1836. According to the myth, she was captured by Mexican General Santa Anna as he marched to fight General Sam Houston. The story goes that she sent word of Santa Anna’s whereabouts to Houston and then entertained the Mexican general, distracting him enough that Houston’s troops swept in and defeated the Mexican army. However, there is no reliable evidence to support this narrative.
Post-Battle
After the Battle of San Jacinto, Emily West applied for and received a passport to return to her home in New York, probably around 1837. She likely left Texas as soon as she could, possibly due to the chaotic and uncertain conditions following the war.
Conclusion
The story of Emily West is a compelling tale of courage and patriotism. However, it is essential to distinguish between historical fact and embellished legend. While Emily West was a real person, her involvement in the Battle of San Jacinto, as portrayed in the popular myth, lacks credible evidence. Her true story is one of an ordinary woman caught up in the extraordinary events of the Texas Revolution.
FAQs
Who was Emily West?
Emily West was a free woman of color, possibly of mixed race, who was born in New Haven, Connecticut around 1815. She is often associated with the legend of the “Yellow Rose of Texas.”
What is the legend of the “Yellow Rose of Texas”?
The legend tells the story of a light-skinned slave woman who distracted Mexican General Santa Anna at the Battle of San Jacinto, allowing General Sam Houston’s army to achieve victory. However, there is no reliable evidence to support this story.
Was Emily West involved in the Battle of San Jacinto?
According to the myth, Emily West was captured by Santa Anna and used her charm to distract him. However, there is no credible evidence to suggest that she played any role in the battle.
What happened to Emily West after the Battle of San Jacinto?
After the battle, Emily West applied for and received a passport to return to her home in New York, probably around 1837. She likely left Texas as soon as she could, possibly due to the chaotic and uncertain conditions following the war.
Is there any evidence to support the legend of Emily West?
No, there is no reliable evidence to support the story of Emily West distracting Santa Anna at the Battle of San Jacinto. Historians have found no contemporary accounts or documents to corroborate this tale.
Why did the legend of Emily West become popular?
The legend of Emily West gained popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, likely due to its romantic and patriotic appeal. The story was further popularized by the song “The Yellow Rose of Texas,” which was first published in 1858.
Is Emily West considered a historical figure?
While Emily West was a real person, her involvement in the Battle of San Jacinto, as portrayed in the legend, is not supported by historical evidence. Therefore, her status as a historical figure is primarily based on the popular myth rather than documented facts.
What is Emily West’s legacy?
Emily West’s legacy is a complex mix of fact and fiction. While the legend of her involvement in the Battle of San Jacinto is unsubstantiated, she remains a symbol of courage and patriotism for many Texans. Her story continues to be told and debated, highlighting the enduring power of historical myths and legends.