Judges of the Plains facts for kids

The Judges of the Plains were special officials in the past. They helped solve arguments about who owned cattle, horses, and other farm animals. In Spanish and Mexican times, they were called Jueces del Campo.

What Did Judges of the Plains Do?

Solving Animal Ownership Problems

These judges had a very important job. They went to all the big yearly gatherings where ranchers would round up their cattle (called rodeos) and horses (called recogidas). At these events, animals were also marked with a special symbol called a brand.

If two people disagreed about who owned an animal, the Judge of the Plains would make the final decision. There was no way to argue against their choice!

Keeping Things Fair

The Judge of the Plains was also like a police officer for animal-related crimes. They would investigate if someone stole livestock or used fake brands or ownership papers. The rules they followed were often old traditions, passed down from the time of the Spanish Empire in the Americas.

This job lasted for one year and was not paid. People usually took on this role for the honor, especially landowners who owned a lot of land in the area.

A History of the Judges

From Spanish Roots to American Law

When American settlers came to the area, they kept this important job but renamed it the Judge of the Plains. The Republic of Texas adopted this role. Later, when the United States gained new lands from Mexico after the Mexican–American War in 1848, these areas also kept the office. Many former Mexican citizens lived in these places.

States like California, New Mexico, and Arizona kept the Judge of the Plains office. They even made it an official part of their laws. California made it official in April 1851 with a law called "AN ACT concerning Judges of the Plains (Jueces del Carnpo,) and defining their Duties." This role continued to be important in California well into the 1900s.