There have been countless debates as to how one determines their generational status. Must all First Generation Texans be Native or do we count the first ancestor to arrive? 

If the First Generation must be a Native Texan, then consider those we leave out of official Texan status? Remember Davy Crockett? He was born in Tennessee. And what about Sam Houston who hails from Virginia?

We like the way this Texas Monthly article tackles the subject. In the end, there is no official stamp of approval, do what is most meaningful to you and your family. As for us, if you were born somewhere else and are lucky enough to find yourself now living in Texas, we'll proudly call you a First Generation Texan.

And what about being a Native Texan? Here's another great retro article from Texas Monthly that shares some thoughtful insights!

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Here's my personal path to Sixth Generation status:

My great-great-great Grandfather on my Mother's side moved to Texas from Arkansas - he's the first generation Texan in my family - on either side. He isn't a Native Texan, but he moved to Texas as a young man and made it his home. He raised his family here, built a career and life here, played, lived, and died here. 
My great-great Grandfather is the second generation.
My Great Grandfather is the third generation.
My Grandfather is the fourth generation.
My Mother is fifth generation.
I am sixth generation Texan, and my daughter is seventh generation.

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If you aren't sure what generation you are, ask your parents or grandparents. It's a great opportunity to learn more about your own family history.

If your family doesn't know, do some research on your own through the Texas State Library.  Chances are, someone in your family has done some research and can help you out. 

Maybe you'll find out you are a descendent of the Old Three Hundred - the original families brought by Stephen F. Austin to settle in Mexican Texas c. 1823-1824. No matter when your family arrived, no matter what flag was flying at the time, the sense of place and history connected to this land is special and something we want to honor, explore, and celebrate.