The Grigsby Pecan was a majestic pecan tree. It once marked the homesite and grave of the founder of a pioneer settlement known as Grigsby’s Bluff. The tree also served as the point of origin from which the town site of Port Neches was surveyed back in 1902, more than 100 years ago.
On November 1, 1834, Joseph Grigsby received a grant of 17 labors of land, or 3,009 acres. Empresario Lorenzo de Zavala gave this to him. The land was located along the Neches River. After the Battle of San Jacinto, Grigsby moved most of his family to the bluff on the Neches and built a lovely home under the shade of a beautiful pecan tree.
Joseph Grigsby had an active interest in the development of Jefferson County. This is evidenced by his partnership with four other landowners, one of whom was Captain Henry Millard. Each of these landowners gave 50 acres of land. Out of this gift, the town of Beaumont was surveyed in 1837.
Before Grisby passed away in 1841, he served as a representative in the 2nd, 3rd and 4th Congresses of the Republic of Texas. He and his four children were buried underneath the pecan tree.
In 1902, Grigsby’s homesite and other adjoining property was acquired by the Central Asphalt and Refining Company. They were responsible for laying out the town of Port Neches. They also named it. The company’s main office was most likely located at the former site of Grigsby’s home. At about this same time, the five graves of Grigsby and his four children were moved to an undisclosed location. It is still not known where the graves were moved to.
As for the Grisby Pecan, the tree itself was destroyed in a storm after the first edition of Famous Trees of Texas went to press in 1969. The site of the historic tree is near the southeast end of Grigsby Avenue in Port Neches. It was believed to have been on a high bluff overlooking the Neches River.
We hope you enjoyed this article about one of Texas’ famous trees. From time to time we like to bring you information on Texas tree history. It’s part of our continuing efforts to educate you on trees and especially the trees that make Texas special. Please continue reading our blog for the best and most up-to-date tree news and information.
