Bernardo was Texas' first and largest plantation during the colonial and Republic period. Jared Groce, his family, and the large contingent of enslaved African Americans made this the most successful economic enterprise in Austin's Colony. Events that occurred at Bernardo shaped the course of Texas history. This book presents the story of Bernardo, its people, and of the archaeological project that uncovered its buried remains. James Victor Woodrick was raised in Austin County, Texas. He graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a Master of Science degree in Chemical Engineering in 1966. His 28-year career with DuPont included assignments in technology, manufacturing and business management, including Plant Manager at Dupont's facilities near Alvin and Orange, Texas. After DuPont, he served for ten years as President of Texas Chemical Council. Jim and his wife Frances live in Austin.