Athanase de Mezieres

Athanase de Mézières, born to French nobility, played a significant diplomatic role in Texas during the 18th century.

Career

Initially a French officer, he later worked with Spanish authorities, forging alliances with Indigenous groups, including the Comanche and Norteños, to counter Apache hostilities. His diplomatic and language skills made him a key figure in fostering peace and expanding Spanish influence. Though appointed governor of Texas, he died before assuming the role, leaving behind a legacy in the region's colonial history.

probably crossed the West Fork of the Trinity River near present-day Fort Worth. He wrote:

It is worthy to note that from the Brazos River on which the Tuacanas are established, and until one reaches the river which bathes the village of the Taovayzes (Red River), one sees on the right a forest that the natives appropriately call the Grand Forest. ...it is very dense, but not very wide. It seems to be there as a guide to even the most inexperienced, and to give refuge in this dangerous region to those who, few in number and lacking in courage, wish to go from one village to another. — De Mezieres

Bolton argues that de Mezieres was describing the Eastern Cross Timbers and the route would have him crossing the West Fork of the Trinity River between the present Fort Worth and Arlington.