The Texas Rangers. A Century Of Frontier Defense.

WALTER PRESCOTT WEBB

Publication: Houghton Mifflin Company, 1935, Boston

First edition. 8vo. Limited to 205 copies of which 200 are for sale, and signed and numbered by the author. This is copy 7. Pigskin and linen with a morocco title label, xiv [2], 583 [1] pp., gilt top edges. acknowledgments, preface, illustrated, plates, portraits, bibliography, index. Illustrated by Lonnie Rees and from photographs. Traces the evolution of the Texas Rangers from their beginnings in the early Republic of Texas through the early 20th century. Begins with the origins and early role of the Rangers, explaining how the Rangers emerged in the aftermath of the Texas Revolution as a volunteer force defending settlers against Native American raids and other threats on the frontier. The book follows the Rangers’ participation in major conflicts including the Indian wars on the plains, the Mexican War, and internal strife during the Republic and early statehood periods. The author highlights notable leaders like John Coffee Hays and the adaptation of weapons such as the revolver to frontier warfare. As Texas became part of the United States and society evolved, the Rangers transitioned from loosely organized fighters into a more formal statewide law enforcement body. Webb covers episodes like border policing, the Cortina War, and efforts to control outlaws and bandits. The narrative extends into the early 20th century, including the Rangers’ role in the Mexican Revolution period and well-known figures such as Frank Hamer, who pursued infamous criminals like Bonnie and Clyde. Adams 150 145 says, "It is the most thorough and reliable work to date on the Texas Rangers, and contains much material on Texas outlaws."

This copy contains the bookplate on the front pastedown sheet of Dr. Howard Stout Neilson, a prominent member of the Darien, CT community. Fine, bright, tight copy housed in the original slipcase with a paper spine label and titles printed in black. This book is from the renowned personal collection of Dr. George D. Lacy.