As a land scout for Stephen F. Austin’s colony, Amos Gates became the first American settler to cross the Brazos River. As such, he had an infinite number of rural properties and acreage on which to establish his homestead. What he selected was a rolling ridge of land, high above the river, looking out for miles across the Brazos River Valley. When he passed away in 1884, he was buried on his ranch, at the heart of Gates Crossing, in the heart of a community whose moniker honors his role in Texas history.
Today, Gates’ Texas estate has been restored to its natural beauty. The pastures have been nourished and replanted with fertile grasses. The ponds are once again clear and full. More than 1,000 new trees have been planted.
Settled in 1836 by Amos Gates. Gates Crossing at Washington on the Brazos is an 1836 Acre portion of the original Gates Perry Ranch. We have set aside 600 Acres of private Reserve for our ranch owners to enjoy the property and outdoors just like it was when it was settled all that time ago. The remainder of Gates Crossing is divided into 14-160 acre private ranches. If you are interested in our community please contact us below to schedule a time to tour Gate Crossing.
The Gates Perry Cemetery is a Texas historical site that sits in the heart of Gates Crossing. Amos Gates, one of Texas's “Old Three Hundred” and Washington County’s first settler, is buried here with members of his family. When Amos passed away he was said to be the Oldest Man in Washington County.
The settlers who received their titles under Stephen F. Austin's first contract, known today as the Old Three Hundred, made up the first organized, approved group of Anglo-American immigrants from the United States to Texas. The new land titles were located in an area where no Spanish or Mexican settlements had existed. It covered land between the Brazos and the Colorado rivers, from the Gulf Coast to the San Antonio Road.