Winner of the Best Book Award from the Wild West History Association, 2012.

Winner of the Co-Founders Best Book Award from Westerners International, 2012.

Captain John R. Hughes, Lone Star Ranger is the first full and complete modern biography of a man who served as a Texas Ranger from 1887 until early 1915. He came to the attention of the Rangers after doggedly trailing horse thieves for nearly a year and recovering his stolen stock. After helping Ranger Ira Aten track down another fugitive from justice, Hughes then joined Company D of the Texas Rangers on Aten’s recommendation, intending to stay for only a few months; he remained in the service for nearly 30 years.

When Captain Frank Jones was killed by bandits in 1893, Hughes was named captain of Company D. As captain, Hughes and his men searched the border and identified every bandit involved in the killing of Jones. They all received justice. 

This biography of one of the “Four Great Captains” sheds light on his life prior to becoming a Texas Ranger and on his love interest, though he never married. From joining Company D in 1887 until retirement, Hughes served the state honestly and proudly, earning the respect of all he met. Zane Grey dedicated his most popular novel, The Lone Star Ranger, to Hughes and his Rangers.

The book is published by University of North Texas Press. The audiobook is published by University Press Audiobooks.

"The action between the covers of this book almost reads like a novel, and it is tough to put down...this book is a must!" (Denver Westerners Roundup)

"An extensively researched and well-written account that will provide enthusiasts with an entertaining and informative read and spark discussion among scholars." (Southwestern Historical Quarterly)

"This biography of Capt. John R. Hughes is filled with hard riding, straight-shooting derring-do." (Chronicle of the Old West)