By AVERY SALAS/Contributor
For Paul Hancock, land is more than just property — it is a testament to a legacy built over generations. As a proud son of the Republic of Texas, Hancock’s connection to his land runs deep, tracing back generations.
The family land story for this Smith County man begins with his great-grandfather, Hardy Hancock, who was granted 320 acres of fertile soil in the early 1800s by Sam Houston, a symbol of the early promise and rugged independence of the Texas Republic.
Hardy’s son, William “Bill” Hancock, inherited and worked it, passing it to his son Elmer. Elmer’s stewardship continued the tradition, ensuring the land stayed in the family.
Now, Paul Hancock carries on that heritage, owning 680 acres along the Attoyac River in Shelby County and 120 acres in Smith County.
“I’ve always believed in the land,” Hancock said, reflecting on the history that flows through his veins. “It’s more than dirt and trees — it’s where my family’s heart is. It’s where we’ve lived, worked, and built something worth keeping.”
One of Hancock’s greatest treasures is the original deed to the farm his great-grandfather acquired in the late 1830s. It is framed and proudly displayed alongside carefully preserved maps of the land surveys.
It’s not just a family heirloom; it’s a piece of history that connects him to a time long passed but never forgotten.
Hancock, retired Air Force veteran, says it’s not just about owning land, but about honoring the sacrifices and successes of those who came before him.
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