Legends of the Old West: Episode 6 – “McNelly’s Rangers”

Host: Black Barrel Media
Host/Author: Chris Wimmer
Release Date: July 31, 2024
Duration: Approximately 35 minutes

1. Introduction and Historical Context

In Episode 6 of Legends of the Old West, host Chris Wimmer delves into the tumultuous period of the mid-1870s, a time marked by significant conflicts and transformations in the American West. The episode sets the stage by highlighting key events such as Quanah Parker's surrender in June 1875, the Red River War, and the ensuing Great Sioux War, emphasizing the widespread impact these events had on Native American tribes and the expansionist ambitions of the United States.

“In the summer of 1875, around the same time of McNelly's Palo Alto fight on June 12, events were in motion all over the west that would soon have major impacts on American history.” (01:08)

2. Captain Leander McNelly and the Palo Alto Fight

Captain Leander McNelly emerges as a central figure, leading a militia of approximately 30 men in the Washington County militia. The episode recounts the June 12, 1875, Palo Alto fight where McNelly and his Rangers successfully eliminated 15 of 16 bandits and recovered between 250 and 300 head of stolen cattle.

“They had killed 15 of 16 bandits during the galloping gunfight on June 12 and recovered between 250 and 300 head of stolen cattle.” (03:48)

3. Challenges and Leadership Amidst Illness

Despite initial successes, McNelly faced significant challenges, including his deteriorating health due to tuberculosis. Confined to a hotel room in Brownsville during July and August, he relied on his second-in-command, Lieutenant T.C. Robinson, and a network of informants to maintain operations.

“But he couldn't ride with them personally. McNelly also kept his network of paid informants operating...” (04:25)

4. The Las Cuevas Incident

In October 1875, following unsuccessful negotiations between the U.S. Army and Mexican authorities over stolen cattle, McNelly seized the opportunity to act. Learning of a raid led by Juan Flores Salinas, a prominent figure in the Lower Rio Grande Valley, McNelly led his Rangers across the Rio Grande into Mexico. During the initial assault, the Rangers mistakenly attacked the wrong village, resulting in a fierce firefight where McNelly reported killing four men.

“McNelly intended to cross the border, strike the Salinas Ranch at Las Cuevas and recover the stolen cattle. The mission would be outside the law.” (08:02)

“McNelly's troop killed four.” (09:42)

5. Escalation and Standoff at Las Cuevas

The confrontation escalated when Salinas rallied 250 men to defend Las Cuevas. Despite being heavily outnumbered, McNelly and his Rangers engaged in a prolonged standoff. The arrival of U.S. cavalry provided some support, but the situation remained precarious. Negotiations ensued, with McNelly refusing to back down despite the lack of military support.

“McNelly didn’t believe the promise for a second, but an army major ordered the regular soldiers to return to Texas. McNelly, meanwhile, stayed right where he was.” (14:48)

Ultimately, McNelly resorted to intimidation tactics, leading to the recovery of a portion of the stolen cattle without capturing the thieves. The Las Cuevas War concluded on November 21, 1875, marking McNelly’s final significant action on the border.

6. Captain McNelly’s Legacy and Leadership Style

Captain McNelly was a larger-than-life figure, both revered and controversial. His aggressive strategies and disregard for bureaucratic constraints earned him immense popularity among Texans while simultaneously testing the patience of his superiors.

“He was a bold leader, a ruthless fighter, and brave nearly to the point of insanity. He quite simply didn't care what it took to get the job done.” (16:24)

McNelly’s inability to adhere to conventional military protocols, coupled with his unorthodox methods, painted him as both a hero and a maverick, reflecting the complex nature of law enforcement on the frontier.

7. Transition of Command to Jesse Lee Hall

As McNelly's health declined, the Texas Legislature reorganized his unit into the Special State Troops, appointing Jesse Lee Hall as his successor. Hall, known for his red hair and reputation as a peace officer, quickly proved his mettle by tackling local criminal activities, including bank robberies and cattle rustling.

“Hall had earned a solid reputation as a peace officer in the area around Sherman, Texas...” (23:04)

Under Hall’s leadership, the unit achieved significant successes, including the apprehension of the notorious outlaw John Wesley Hardin in July 1877.

8. Capture of John Wesley Hardin

A pivotal moment in the episode is the detailed account of Lt. John Armstrong and Jack Duncan’s daring operation to capture John Wesley Hardin. Their meticulous planning and determination culminated in a dramatic confrontation aboard a train in Alabama, where Hardin was apprehended after a brief shootout.

“Armstrong grabbed Hardin and that set off a scuffle in the car... Armstrong drew his pistol and returned fire and killed Hardin's friend.” (30:02)

The return of Hardin to Texas was met with public acclaim, highlighting the effectiveness of Hall and his team.

9. Captain McNelly’s Passing

Tragically, just a week after the capture of Hardin, Captain Leander McNelly succumbed to tuberculosis on September 4, 1877, at the age of 33. His legacy is memorialized in Burton, Texas, where a monument stands as a testament to his enduring impact on Texas law enforcement.

“Captain McNelly passed away September 4, 1877, and he's buried in the Mount Zion Cemetery in Burton, Texas.” (32:15)

10. Conclusion and Legacy

Episode 6 culminates by reflecting on McNelly’s dual legacy as both a beloved community figure and a contentious military leader. His untimely death marked the end of an era for the Texas Rangers, paving the way for successors like Jesse Lee Hall to continue shaping law enforcement in the American West.

“He was both wildly popular and barely tolerable at the same time.” (16:24)

The episode closes with a preview of upcoming stories, promising listeners a deep dive into the adventures of early American frontier figures like Jedediah Smith and Hugh Glass.

Notable Quotes

• “In the summer of 1875, around the same time of McNelly's Palo Alto fight on June 12, events were in motion all over the west that would soon have major impacts on American history.” – Chris Wimmer (01:08)

• “He was a bold leader, a ruthless fighter, and brave nearly to the point of insanity.” – Chris Wimmer (16:24)

• “Armstrong grabbed Hardin and that set off a scuffle in the car.” – Chris Wimmer (30:02)

Legends of the Old West: “McNelly’s Rangers” offers a compelling exploration of Captain Leander McNelly’s efforts to enforce law in the lawless frontier, his confrontations with notorious outlaws, and the enduring legacy of his leadership within the Texas Rangers. Through vivid storytelling and meticulous attention to historical detail, Black Barrel Media brings to life the rugged challenges and heroic endeavors that defined the American West.