William Stanbery – Beaten in the Street

Sam Houston, marked for greatness by President Jackson, returned to Washington in 1832 seeking to re-enter public life. The anti-Jackson faction saw an opportunity to indirectly target Jackson by attacking Houston. William Stanbery‘s speech in the House, accusing Houston of fraudulent activities related to Indian rations, triggered tensions that eventually erupted into violence.

Houston confronted Stanbery after reading about the accusations in a local newspaper. The confrontation turned physical, with Houston viciously assaulting Stanbery with a hickory walking stick. Stanbery managed to draw a pistol and fired at Houston, but the charge failed to explode. After a trial in the U.S. House, Houston was found guilty of contempt of Congress but faced a mild admonishment.

Stanbery pursued a criminal complaint against Houston, resulting in a conviction and a $500 fine. Houston never paid the fine and left town, ultimately making significant contributions to the Texas independence movement. Meanwhile, Stanbery’s political career declined, and he returned to practicing law until his death.

The incident and its aftermath had divergent impacts on the lives of both men. Houston went on to become the first President of the Republic of Texas, while Stanbery’s influence waned. This episode remains a significant turning point in Houston’s life and a reminder of the intense partisan conflicts of the time.