Walter Moses Burton
Burton Elementary School
Walter Moses Burton’s life was one of struggle, perseverance, hope, generosity and dignity. He was at the leadership forefront of African Americans in Fort Bend County following the Civil War. After purchasing a large quantity of land, he became one of the wealthiest and most influential
African Americans in Fort Bend County. In 1869 he was elected Fort Bend County Sheriff and Tax Collector. By 1874, he was elected to the Texas Senate representing the 17th district. During his four terms in the Senate, he served on the committees of Agricultural Affairs, Education, Roads and Bridges and Judiciary. He also joined fellow legislators in supporting bills and resolutions that would benefit African American citizens. Most notable was his contribution to public education. In 1876, Burton introduced the Senate bill to establish an agricultural and manual school for African American youth of the state, which is now known as Prairie View A&M University.