The Republic of Austin is a fascinating page-turner that documents the rough and tumble early years of the lone Star Nation. Like the stitching of a good saddle Jeffrey Kerr weaves together stories that outline how a nation was born and how a small community grew into the Texas capital. “Anyone wanting to comprehend the heritage of Texas needs to read this book.”   Todd Staples - Texas commissioner of agriculture

“Authenic nuggets of Austin history, told with authority and style by an author who knows how to hold his readers interest.” John Boles - William P Hobby Professor of History Rice University