Major John B. Jones: Texas Ranger and Adjutant General
historical marker
This historical marker in Austin, Travis County, commemorates Major John B. Jones, who lived from 1834 to 1881. Jones was born in South Carolina in December 1834. His family moved to Texas in 1838, settling near present-day Austin, in what became Travis County. During the Civil War, Jones served in the Confederate Army, achieving the rank of Major. In 1874, Governor Richard Coke appointed him to organize and command the Texas Rangers' Frontier Battalion. This force was tasked with addressing Indian raids, banditry, and general lawlessness on the frontier. Major Jones was known for his hands-on leadership, often joining his companies in the field. Under his command, the Frontier Battalion was instrumental in ending Indian incursions and bringing notorious outlaws, such as the Sam Bass gang, to justice. In January 1879, Jones was appointed Adjutant General of Texas. He died in Austin on July 19, 1881, while still serving in this role and commanding the Frontier Battalion. He is buried in Austin's Oakwood Cemetery. This marker, erected in 1964 by the State Historical Survey Committee, recognizes Major John B. Jones's significant contributions to Texas history and frontier security.