My first cousin three times removed Thomas Simons was born 21st January 1826 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. His family had moved from England and moved on again to settle in Texas. The Mexican War followed the annexation of Texas, and this is the newspaper report about Thomas' involvement in the War:
Niles' National Register, May 29, 1847 Thomas Simons - The Mexicans have ceased their murders on the road, but have dared to attack a rear party coming down with the last train from Monterey, and in the attack mortally wounded one of Capt. Grey's men - a Mr. Thomas Simons of Texas - a young man very respectably connected, a great promise, and deservedly by all who knew him, we speak of him from a perfect knowledge of his many good qualities. Mr. Simons was some distance in the rear of the train, in company with three others; all unarmed but himself; when they were set upon from the chaparral and seven Mexicans charged upon them. The fight had to be maintained a lot by young Simons, his companions deserting him and the firing commenced. An escort ball broke his thigh and he fell from his horse. The Mexicans closed round and fired him whilst on the ground but with a revolving pistol he killed one, disabled a second, and kept the rest at bay until his companions charged in advance, came to the rescue, drawn hither by the firing. He was taken to Calvaro - his leg was nearly shot off, and it is supposed impossible that he can recover. It needs no prophet to foretell how dire it will be.