Columbus in Colorado County, Texas — The American South (West South Central)
The Rangers of Austin's Colony
In 1823, after several Indian attacks on members of Austin's colony, Captain Robert Kuykendall and Alcalde John Tumlinson of the Colorado District requested permission from Tresplacios to raise a company to protect the colonists. Ten men were recruited to serve under the command of Moses Morrison.
When Stephen F. Austin returned from Mexico City in August 1823, he found the colony still plagued by Indian disturbances and announced that he would employ ten additional men, at his own expense, to serve as "Rangers" for the common defense.
Although the law enforcement group known as the Texas Rangers was not formally organized until 1835, the "Rangers" of Austin's Colony are the earliest recorded force of this type raised in Texas and served as a model for the later formation of the Texas Rangers.
Erected 1986 by Texas Historical Commission. (Marker Number 4199.)
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Native Americans • Settlements & Settlers. A significant historical month for this entry is March 1822.
Location. 29° 42.33′ N, 96° 32.396′ W. Marker is in Columbus, Texas, in Colorado County. Marker is on Spring Street, on the right when traveling west. On south side of courthouse square. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Columbus TX 78934, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Tumlinson Family (here, next to this marker); Stafford-Miller House (a few steps from this marker); Colorado County, 1837, and Robert "Three-Legged Willie" Williamson (within shouting distance of this marker); Colorado County War Memorial (within shouting distance of this marker); Old Stafford Opera House (within shouting distance of this marker); 1890 Cornerstone Ceremony (within shouting distance of this marker); Colorado County Courthouse (within shouting distance of this marker); a different marker also named Colorado County (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Columbus.
Credits. This page was last revised on September 30, 2020. It was originally submitted on April 13, 2010, by Gregory Walker of La Grange, Texas. This page has been viewed 1,485 times since then and 69 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on April 13, 2010, by Gregory Walker of La Grange, Texas. • Kevin W. was the editor who published this page.