CONFEDERATE SCRIP
Texas rewarded its fighting men again after the Civil War (or War Between the States).
Carpetbaggers who were in control of the State government during reconstruction sought to reward men who fought in the Union army “during the late Rebellion”, but no grants of land were made under this act, which was passed on August 21, 1868.
When Texans regained control of the State government, they provided that veterans who had been permanently disabled while in Confederate service could receive 1280 acres of land.
This act, which was passed April 9, 1881, further specified that anyone receiving land under this provision could not have an estate valued at more than $1,000.
Titles to land granted under this provision are called CONFEDERATE SCRIP.
GRANTS FOR EDUCATION
The people of Texas have always been interested in better educational systems. Early Texas newspapers reflect this fact. Consequently, land was set aside by the Republic or State at one time or other for the benefit of The University of Texas, county schools, eleemosynary institutions, and public schools. In many cases, this land has been sold, and the systems have benefited from the fund thereby created.
The University of Texas
By the Act of January 26, 1839, the Congress of the Republic of Texas set aside 50 leagues of land to be used in the establishment of two colleges or universities. This land was not surveyed until August 30, 1856, and The University of Texas actually received a fraction over 49 leagues, that is, about 217,000 acres. Most of this land, which was located in Grayson, Hunt, Fannin, Cooke, Lamar, Collin, McLennan, Callahan, and other counties, was sold. From them the University received about $653,000. A fraction of one league remains in the hands of the University.