Colt SAA, Winchester 94, S&W Double Action, belonging to Texas Ranger, Lee Queen
Description:
The Texas Rangers are know as possibly the most elite non-federal law enforcement officers, in our country. They are legendary, to say the least. This set belonged to one of their best, Company B Texas Ranger, Lee Queen. Lee grew up in Round Rock, Texas, which is where Sam Bass was killed in 1878. That may very well be the inspiration responsible for him enlisting with the Texas Rangers.
Ranger Queen was directly involved with many major operations, during his tenure. He was regarded by Captain Bill McDonald of Company B, as one of his best men. He left Lee and Billy McCauley to guard two killers, Lewis and Crawford, at the Wichita Falls jail. A lynch mob was threatening to serve justice, without trial. No harm came to Lewis and Crawford, until the Rangers finally left them in the care of twenty-five armed men. The possee was unable to keep the mob from finally carrying out their intentions.
Ranger Queen was present at the Railroad Strike of 1894, in Temple, Texas. He was also present in El Paso, Texas, during February 1896. The governor sent the Rangers to keep a prize fight between Bob Fitzsimmons, and Pete Maher from occuring on Texas soil. It was told that Bat Masterson was to provide security with one-hundred men, making certain the fight occured where planned. The thirty-five Rangers, including Queen, made certain the fight was moved across the river, in Mexico, near Langtry, Texas.
Ranger Queen served with Company B from 1893 to 1896, when he married Maggie Ewbank, daughter of XIT Ranch foreman, Henry Ewbank. Lee served as Sheriff of Hartley County for nearly seven terms. He was succeded by his son, Ralph, who took over the office after Lee passed away. The Queens raised two sons, and four daughters. His other son, Beale, was Wagon Boss of the JA Ranch. Robert Lee Queen was born September 14, 1869, and passed away August 13, 1933. He was one of the most feared, and respected law enforcement officers in the Texas Panhandle. He lived, and died, a Texas Legend.
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Manufacturer:
Colt, Winchester, S&W
Model:
SAA, 1894, Double Action
Serial Number:
Colt 1511**, Winchester 5850**, Smith 5852**
Caliber Info:
45, 30 WCF, .38
Condition:
Includes all provenance, including original tintype photos