Texas Rangers

[Danny Bear Claw]

Oct. 17, 1835.  In the early stages of the Texas Revolution, the Permanent Council, (an ad hoc governing body that operated for only three weeks during the early stages of the Revolution), adopts a resolution formally organizing the Texas Rangers.  The resolution calls for three companies of Rangers to protect the frontier, but in reality merely formalizes a paramilitary force first organized by Steven Austin in the early 1820s.  Since their inception the Rangers have oscillated between serving as a military force and as a law enforcement agency.  Today the Rangers continue as the oldest statewide police force in North America.

[Harley Starr]

Ever read Elmer Kelton's Texas Ranger series? Kelton balanced the history pretty well with the fiction.

[Bugscuffle]

If you want the real deal, look for "Texas Ranger Tales" by Mike Cox.

[Caprock Louis]

Living in Texas I have met several Rangers.  A more professional polished group of law enforcement individuals you will never meet.  I have a friend who is a retired Ranger in his mid 70s.  Truly a pleasant fine gentleman.  I have written a couple of articles about historic Rangeers in the mid 1800s.  They certainly made a huge difference with the Indian problem of the era as well as law enforcement.  They were not always perfect in historic times however they are truly a proud heritage for Texas.  Many were common men who saw a need for protection of their state and community and were very dedicated to it.  When they finsihed they once again returned to farming and ranching.

Caprock Louis
lost deep in heart of Texas

[Tascosa Joe]

Another good book is "Winchester Warriors" by Bob Alexander.  It is the story of Co D Frontier Bn after reconstruction to it's disbanding after 1900.  A good read.

[Russ McCrae]

Taming the Nueces strip is another good 1800's Ranger read

[Highlander999]

I enjoyed James B. Gillett's book, "Five Years with the Texas Rangers".  An interesting recount of some of their history.

[HogDoc Olliday]

Another great book on the Texas Rangers is:

Lone Star Justice by Robert Utley