The De Cordova Project

The Life of Jacob de Cordova, Founder of Waco

Short Synopsis:
Jacob Raphael de Cordova was a visionary, publisher, state legislator, city councilman, land agent, and Texas colonizer. He was one of the founders of Waco, Texas and creator of the first accurate map of Texas. This is the all but forgotten story of his life and accomplishments.

Approach:
Jacob’s ancestors were forced to leave Spain during the Spanish Inquisition, we follow his family though Jacob’s birth in Spanish Town Jamaica. We continue following Jacob’s life from childhood until he reaches Texas as a land agent. The film covers Jacob’s accomplishments and his failures along the way, through historical documents, newspapers, and letters.

The story will be told by narrator Ann Harder, two 3rd Great Grandsons of Jacob, and a member of the Wí:ko tribe. Still images, motion graphics, and animation will be used to enhance the story.

Other notes:
Students of McCallum High School and Waco High School, will be and have been working as paid grips and production assistants as part of a job preparation program.