Texas State Police facts for kids
The Texas State Police (TSP) was a special police force created in Texas right after the American Civil War. It was started by the Texas Governor, Edmund J. Davis, in 1870. The TSP's main job was to stop crimes, especially those based on race, and it even had African American police officers. This force was later replaced by the Texas Rangers in 1873.
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History of the Texas State Police
The Texas State Police was formed on July 22, 1870. Governor Davis created it to help control crime during the Reconstruction Era. This was a time after the Civil War when the Southern states were being rebuilt. Governor Davis also started other groups like the State Guard of Texas and the Texas Reserve Militia. These groups were early versions of what is now the Texas National Guard.
Key Members of the TSP
Some important people were part of the Texas State Police. One was Captain Jack Helm from DeWitt County, Texas. Another well-known member was Leander H. McNelly. He later became famous for leading a special group within the Texas Rangers.
Why the TSP Was Unpopular
Even though the Texas State Police helped fight crime, many people did not like it. One reason was that Governor Davis had a lot of control over the group. Also, the TSP included African American officers. This was very unpopular with some people, especially those who used to own slaves.
End of the TSP and New Beginnings
On April 22, 1873, the law that created the state police was canceled. After this, many former TSP members joined the Texas Rangers. Leander H. McNelly, who was a captain in the TSP, became an officer in the new Texas Rangers force. At least 36 other state police members also joined the Rangers.
In 1935, the Texas Department of Public Safety (TDPS) was created. This department now serves as one of the main state police forces in Texas.
