​Cicero Howard

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Marker Text: Born in Missouri in 1850, Cicero Howard arrived in Eagle Lake by 1867 with Captain George Ziegler, a Union Civil War veteran. Howard became the foreman for Captain William Dunovant, who had acquired large land holdings for growing cotton, sugarcane, pecans and other crops. Howard managed Dunovant's large group of farm workers, most of whom were African American. Dr. I.B. Sigler, who also worked for Dunovant, later recalled that Howard was respected and favored by both Dunovant and the large work force of African Americans and their families. 
    Howard was self-educated at a time when many African Americans could neither read nor write. He was successful on his own farm and businesses, along with managing Dunovant's agricultural interests. Howard showed his skills and dependability, earning the respect of many of his neighbors. He became the first elected African American official in Eagle Lake when he was elected Colorado County commissioner in November 1878. He was reflected in 1880, 1882 and 1884. After two years out of office, citizens again elected him to the county commissioners court in 1888, selecting him in 1890 and 1892. He cast one of the deciding votes for the financing and building of the 1889 county courthouse and jail. 
    In 1871, Howard married Cornelia Whitney (1840-1929) in Colorado County. The couple raised Cornelia's nephew, John W. Whitney (1888-1981), who became a noted art restorer and conservator. Ciero Howard was a beloved citizen, and more than 400 people attended his funeral in 1919. One account stated "Cicero was a good citizen, was always forum on the moral side of each question that arose, and was a great influence for the good as much as any man in the county." (2018) 

Marker No: 22394

27 x 42 Aluminum Subject Marker

Geographic: 

Location: ​100 E. Main Street, Eagle Lake