Long, Jane (1798-1880), was called the Mother of Texas because of her spirited defense of her children during pioneer days. During the winter of 1821-1822, her husband, James, left their home to fight for Texas’ independence. He assigned soldiers to guard his wife and baby, but the soldiers left when Long failed to return. Mrs. Long’s only helper was a servant girl, who became ill. Mrs. Long and her family survived the winter, but she had to fight off Indians, hunt for food, and give birth to another baby. Her husband was murdered in Mexico, but she stayed in Texas. She was born in Charles County, Maryland.
