Since his parents names were never recorded, the person pictured here took the last name of his master, Sam Houston. Born into slavery on a Perry County, Alabama, plantation in 1822, Joshua Houston outlived his owner – who just so happened to be the first President of the Republic of Texas, and a U.S. Senator – by nearly 40 years. And it’s what he did in those 40 years that’s truly inspiring. Once freed, Joshua Houston became a successful businessman, homeowner, church leader, and officeholder. He was twice appointed a city alderman Huntsville (TX), and was elected a county commissioner there twice. And in 1888 he was selected as a member of the Texas delegation to the Republican National Convention! Lean more about Joshua Houston on BlackPast.org (link: http://bit.ly/1czWALw)- please Like & Share.