Historical Marker

The Texas Rangers and the San Saba Mob

Historical marker location:
S. Cherokee Street, San Saba, Texas
( San Saba County Courthouse grounds, west side)
Marker installed: 2005
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Removed from major roads and railways, early San Saba County residents had limited access to law enforcement and government. Beginning in the mid-1850s, citizens in and around the county formed vigilante mobs to dispatch justice. Although initially formed to protect residents, these mobs often evolved into organized gangs, terrorizing the residents they had initially formed to protect. By the 1880s, a group unofficially called the San Saba Mob, or the Assembly, had killed numerous area settlers. Believed to have included religious leaders and elected officials, the mob operated under strict ritual and secrecy, meeting clandestinely at places like Buzzards' Water Hole and Cottonwood Pond. Organized similarly to a fraternal lodge, the group used secret signs and gestures to identify membership. After meeting and deciding who to eliminate, the regulators would ride wearing black masks or hoods, and ambush their victims with a telling nine bullet holes. In 1896, in order to stop the violence, the state sent Texas Rangers led by Sgt. W. John L. Sullivan to investigate, and San Saba County News editor Uluth M. Sanderson began running editorials against the mob. Sullivan was later replaced by Ranger Capt. William J. "Bill Jess" McDonald, who worked effectively with district attorney W. C. Linden to expose as many mob members as possible. To avoid interference from local officials believed to have ties to the group, they moved key trials to Austin and Llano. By 1900, the Rangers and Linden succeeded in breaking the mob's control over county residents, although few members ever paid for their crimes. (2005)

As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.

law enforcement rangers
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
The cattle industry played a significant role in the development of Texas, with cowboys driving cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas during the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Texas random facts
Founded in 1856, San Saba County is located in central Texas and is named after the San Saba River that runs through it. The area has a rich and diverse history that dates back far before its official establishment. Native American tribes, such as the Caddo and Comanche, inhabited the land long before European settlers arrived. Spanish explorers were the first Europeans to explore the region in the 18th century.

During the Mexican Texas era, San Saba County was a part of the municipality of Colorado and later, the municipality of Bexar. It played a significant role in the fight for Texas' independence from Mexico, with notable figures like James Bowie and Sam Houston having connections to the area. After the Texas Revolution, the county became a part of the Republic of Texas and underwent various changes in its jurisdiction before being officially organized as San Saba County.

Agriculture, particularly cotton farming, played a crucial role in the early development of San Saba County. The county's fertile soil, along with the San Saba River, provided favorable conditions for farming. The expansion of the railroad in the late 19th century further boosted the local economy, as it allowed for the transportation of goods and facilitated trade.

Over the years, San Saba County has faced challenges such as droughts, economic fluctuations, and changes in agricultural practices. However, the community has persevered and adapted, diversifying its economy to include industries such as oil and gas, as well as tourism. Today, San Saba County's rich heritage, natural beauty, and friendly community make it a charming place to live, visit, and explore.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of San Saba County, Texas.

  • 1856 - San Saba County was officially established by the Texas legislature.
  • 1859 - Fort McKavett was established near Menardville, bringing increased protection to the area.
  • 1860s - The county faced conflicts with Native American tribes, including the Comanches and Apaches.
  • 1870s - The arrival of the railroad led to economic growth and the development of towns like San Saba.
  • 1882 - The County Courthouse was built, becoming a centerpiece of San Saba.
  • 1900s - Farming and ranching became the main economic activities in the county.
  • 1911 - The Women's Culture Club was founded, promoting education and cultural initiatives.
  • 1930s - San Saba County was severely affected by the Great Depression.
  • 1980s - The county experienced a decline in population due to economic changes.
  • 2000s - Efforts were made to revive the county's economy, focusing on tourism and agriculture.