Peter W. Grayson

Peter Wagener Grayson (1788 – July 9, 1838) was an American politician, lawyer, diplomat, and poet.

Born to a political family, Grayson practiced law in Kentucky and served in its general assembly. He moved to Texas in 1830, operating a plantation and becoming an associate of Stephen F. Austin. He served as Texas Attorney General, though after a series of disappointments in his political career, committed suicide. Grayson County, Texas is named for him.

Early life Grayson was born in 1788, in Bardstown, Virginia, the son of Benjamin Grayson and Caroline Malinda (née Taylor) Grayson. His brother was Kentucky Attorney General Frederick W. S. Grayson, and his sister, Mary Elizabeth Grayson, married James D. Breckinridge. His great-uncle was William Grayson, and he was also related to President James Monroe.

Career Grayson served in the War of 1812, and also worked as an attorney and poet amidst the war. He moved to San Felipe, Texas in 1830, where he practicied law. He purchased land from Stephen F. Austin, and by 1832, operated a large plantation near Matagorda and owned many slaves.