Henderson King Yoakum

Henderson King Yoakum (September 6, 1810 – November 30, 1856) was an American politician, historian, lawyer, and military officer.

Born in Tennessee, Yoakum studied at the United States Military Academy. As a soldier, he served in the Cherokee removal and the Mexican–American War. For a time, he was a member of the Tennessee Senate. He then moved to Texas, where he worked as a lawyer and published a history book on the state. Yoakum County, Texas, is named for him.

Early life and education Yoakum was born on September 6, 1810, in Claiborne County, Tennessee, the son of George Yoakum II and Mary Ann (née Maddy) Yoakum.

In 1832, Yoakum graduated from the United States Military Academy. His graduating class was 45 students large, with him ranking 21st. He was ranked lieutenant before resigning in spring 1833. under James Coffield Mitchell.

Yoakum was a Democrat. He returned to Huntsville on October 2, 1846, where he continued practicing law. his friend Sam Houston is buried beside him, per Houston's dying wish. In 1976, a plaque was installed in Huntsville.