November 24: Organization of the Texas Rangers (1835)
Prayer Idea
Pray for people who work in law enforcement.
History Note
The Texas Revolution (1835-1836) was an attempt by settlers in Texas to obtain independence from Mexico. This conflict included the famous Battle of the Alamo.
On November 24, 1835, the provisional government of Texas formally authorized an Ordinance Establishing a Corps of Rangers. Each ranger had to provide his own weapon, horse, and equipment. Enlisted men received $1.25 per day to cover their food, clothing, and care for their horses.
During the Republic of Texas period (1836-1845) and after Texas became part of the United States in 1845, the Rangers primarily guarded against attacks by members of Native nations. Some Texans wanted to pursue peaceful relations with Native nations, but many others wanted to push them out of Texas entirely.
After the Civil War, the Texas Rangers began to function more like a modern police force, investigating crimes and arresting people suspected of crimes. Unlike county sheriffs and local police, the Rangers could operate across the entire state.
In 1935 Texas created the Department of Public Safety, which included the Texas Rangers and the Texas Highway Patrol. Rangers who display conspicuous gallantry, courage, and heroism at considerable risk to their own lives may be awarded a Medal of Valor from the state.
Sgt. John Aycock served with the Texas Rangers from 1982 to 2001. In 1987 and again in 1995, Sgt. Aycock was involved in successful efforts to rescue children who had been kidnapped. Only five people have received the Texas Medal of Valor. Sgt. Aycock received it twice.
Don Hunt created this statue of a Texas Ranger, which is on display at the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum in Waco. Photo courtesy the Lyda Hill Texas Collection of Photographs in Carol M. Highsmith's America Project in the Carol M. Highsmith Archive, Library of Congress.
Learn More
This video provides a brief look at the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum.
Find more resources at Homeschool History.
