Anson Jones

Anson Jones (1798 to 1858) was an American physician, businessman and politician who became the fourth and last president of the Republic of Texas. Born in Great Barrington, Massachusetts, he was licensed as a doctor by the Oneida, New York, Medical Society in 1820, began practice in 1822 and later earned an MD in Philadelphia, though his early practice never prospered and he turned to trade in New Orleans. After moving to Texas in 1832 he built a successful medical practice in Brazoria. During the Texas Revolution he served as judge advocate and surgeon to the Texas Army while insisting on holding only the rank of private. As a member of the Texas Congress he helped draw up legislation to regulate medical practice. He later served as Secretary of State and then as president, overseeing the final negotiations that led to the annexation of Texas by the United States in 1846. He died in Houston in January 1858.