The Encyclopedia Americana (1920)/Sterne, Adolphus
STERNE, stêrn, Adolphus, Texan pioneer:
b. Cologne, Germany, 5 April 1801; d. New
Orleans, La., 27 March 1852. Leaving his
birthplace in his 16th year to escape military
duty, he came to the United States, going first
to New Orleans and then visiting Texas in 1824.
A lover of adventure and proficient in many
languages and dialects, he joined the English
settlers in their early struggles against the
Mexicans, and took part in the Fredonian War.
Saved from being sentenced to death by an
amnesty, he went into business at Nacogdoches,
and became a notable figure in eastern Texas.
He studied law, was court interpreter, and after
Texas won her independence he served in both
Upper and lower houses of Congress.