Old West Lawmen List – M
The vast expanse of the American West, during the 19th century, was a crucible of ambition, opportunity, and lawlessness. As settlers, prospectors, and entrepreneurs pushed westward, the need for law and order became paramount. This Old West Lawmen List – M highlights some of the individuals who, with varying degrees of success and notoriety, attempted to tame the wild frontier, bringing a semblance of justice to a land often governed by the gun. Their stories are tales of bravery, dedication, and sometimes, moral ambiguity, reflecting the complex realities of life on the edge of civilization.
Allen R. Maddox: Maddox carved his niche in the annals of Texas history through his service in Company B of the legendary Texas Rangers. In 1896, he answered the call to uphold the law, joining the ranks of this elite force tasked with maintaining order across the sprawling Texas frontier. While details of his specific exploits remain somewhat obscured by the passage of time, his presence in the Texas Rangers underscores his commitment to justice and his willingness to confront the challenges of a rapidly changing era.
Christian “Chris” Madsen (1851–1944): Born in Denmark, Chris Madsen immigrated to the United States and embarked on a distinguished career in law enforcement. He is best known for his service as a U.S. Deputy Marshal in the Oklahoma Territory. Madsen’s reputation was solidified through his close collaboration with fellow lawmen Heck Thomas and Bill Tilghman. Together, these three became famously known as the "Three Guardsmen," a formidable trio that played a pivotal role in quelling the rampant lawlessness that plagued the Indian Territory. Their combined efforts significantly contributed to establishing a safer and more stable environment in a region often characterized by its volatile nature. Madsen’s long life spanned a significant period of Western history, witnessing its transformation from a wild frontier to a more settled and organized society.
George Maledon, aka Prince of Hangmen (1830-1911): A somber figure in the history of frontier justice, George Maledon, earned the grim moniker "Prince of Hangmen" through his role in carrying out the sentences of Judge Isaac Parker in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Before his appointment as executioner, Maledon served as a deputy sheriff in Fort Smith. Judge Parker, known for his stern and unwavering commitment to the law, presided over a court that handed down numerous death sentences. Maledon’s task was to ensure these sentences were carried out. Over a period of 22 years, Maledon executed more than sixty condemned criminals. The sheer number of lives he took in the name of justice earned him the chilling title that would forever be associated with his name. His story offers a stark reminder of the harsh realities of frontier justice and the individuals who were tasked with its most unpleasant aspects.
Bryan Marsh (1833-1901): Bryan Marsh’s life was one of service, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to both his state and his community. Born in Alabama, Marsh’s journey led him to Texas, where he settled near Tyler and established himself as a respected member of the community. When the Civil War erupted, Marsh answered the call to duty, enlisting and rising to the rank of captain in the Texas Cavalry. He served with distinction throughout the conflict. In 1864, during the Battle of New Hope Church, Georgia, Marsh suffered a devastating wound that resulted in the amputation of his right arm. Despite this profound loss, Marsh’s spirit remained unbroken. Returning to Texas after the war, he continued to serve his community, accepting the role of captain of Company B, Frontier Battalion of the Texas Rangers in 1880. Even with only one arm, Marsh led his company with courage and determination. In February 1881, his company played a crucial role in quelling a riot in San Angelo, restoring order to the troubled town. When budget cuts forced the disbandment of his company later that year, Marsh returned to Smith County, where he continued his public service as sheriff for many years. His legacy is one of resilience, leadership, and unwavering commitment to duty, even in the face of adversity. Fellow Ranger Jeff Milton described him as a man who "would drink right smart and scrap right smart… wasn’t afraid of anything."
Barney Mason: Barney Mason was a figure operating on the fringes of the law, known as both a gunman and a lawman. He served as a deputy under the notorious Pat Garrett in Lincoln County, New Mexico, a region known for its violence and lawlessness. In 1880, Mason was involved in a fatal incident at Fort Sumner, New Mexico, where he killed John Farris. The killing was deemed an act of self-defense. Mason’s story provides a glimpse into the blurred lines between law and disorder that often characterized life on the frontier.
Milt Mast: Milt Mast is remembered primarily for his role as the sheriff of Nacogdoches County, Texas. His most notable achievement was the capture of the infamous outlaw Wild Bill Longley on June 26, 1877. Longley, a notorious gunfighter with a reputation for violence, had been evading law enforcement for years. Mast’s capture of such a notorious figure brought him considerable recognition.
Edward J. Masterson, aka Little Ed (1852–1878): "Little Ed" Masterson, brother of the more famous Bat Masterson, earned his own place in the history of the West as a dedicated lawman. He served as the marshal of Dodge City, Kansas, a town renowned for its saloons, gambling halls, and frequent outbreaks of violence. On April 9, 1878, while attempting to maintain order in the rowdy town, Masterson was killed in the line of duty by cowboys. His death was a stark reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers in the Wild West. Masterson’s sacrifice cemented his legacy as a brave and dedicated individual who gave his life in the service of his community. The Old West Lawmen List – M also includes Edward J. Masterson.
James “Jim” P. Masterson (1855–1895): Another of the Masterson brothers, James "Jim" Masterson followed in the footsteps of his siblings, carving his own path in law enforcement. He served as a lawman in both Dodge City and Ingalls, Kansas, contributing to the effort to maintain order in these turbulent frontier towns. Later, Masterson transitioned to federal service, becoming a U.S. Deputy Marshal in the Indian Territory. In this role, he actively pursued outlaws, including members of the notorious Doolin Gang. He played a role in the capture of Arkansas Tom Jones, a member of the Doolin Gang.
Robert Masterson, aka Smiling Bob: While overshadowed by his more famous brothers, Bat and Ed, Robert Masterson, known as "Smiling Bob," also contributed to the cause of law and order in the West. He served as a marshal in Trinidad, Colorado, in 1882. Reportedly, he killed twenty-one men during his time as a lawman.
William Bartholomew “Bat” Masterson (1856?–1921): Arguably the most famous of the Masterson brothers, Bat Masterson achieved legendary status as a lawman, gambler, and sports writer. His career in law enforcement began in Ford County, Kansas, where he served as a deputy sheriff and later as sheriff. He also served as marshal in Trinidad, Colorado, and as a peace commissioner in Dodge City, Kansas. Later in life, he became a U.S. Deputy Marshal in New York and a sports writer.
Dave H. Mather, aka Mysterious Dave (1851-1930?): "Mysterious Dave" Mather was a complex figure whose career straddled the line between lawman and outlaw. He served as a marshal in Dodge City, Kansas, and as an assistant marshal in El Paso, Texas. He also worked as a U.S. Deputy Marshal in New Mexico. However, Mather was also implicated in various criminal activities. He was associated with the lawless Dodge City Gang in Las Vegas, New Mexico, and was suspected of involvement in horse and cattle rustling. His story is a reminder that the lines between law and lawlessness were often blurred in the Old West.
Jacob B. Matthews (18??-1904): Jacob B. Matthews’ life was marked by both military service and law enforcement. He served in the Tennessee Cavalry during the Civil War, experiencing the hardships and violence of that conflict. After the war, Matthews ventured west, where he became involved in law enforcement. He served as a deputy sheriff under Sheriff Brady during the tumultuous Lincoln County War in New Mexico.
D. Boone May (1852-1910): D. Boone May was a versatile figure on the frontier, working as a gunman, stage guard, and U.S. Deputy Marshal. He served in Deadwood, South Dakota, and Cheyenne, Wyoming, both towns known for their rough-and-tumble character. May earned a reputation for bravery and effectiveness in combating crime. He reportedly killed several stage robbers during his time as a stage guard in the 1870s. This Old West Lawmen List – M recognizes D. Boone May.
Thomas P. McCall: Thomas P. McCall holds the distinction of being the first sheriff of Medina County, Texas, a position he assumed in 1858. His early tenure in this role helped establish law enforcement structures in the newly formed county. Later, McCall served as a deputy sheriff in Bexar County before returning to the role of sheriff. He served for ten years.
William McCauley: William McCauley distinguished himself through his service as a Texas Ranger in the 1890s. In 1897, he played a key role in dismantling a gang that had been terrorizing the town of San Saba, Texas. McCauley’s actions contributed to the restoration of peace and security.
Robert McClure: Like William McCauley, Robert McClure served as a Texas Ranger in the 1890s. He also participated in the effort to break up a gang terrorizing San Saba, Texas, in 1897. Their combined efforts helped to bring the perpetrators to justice and restore order to the community.
Mike McCluskie, aka: Arthur Delaney, Art Donovan (18??-1871): Mike McCluskie, a gambler and occasional lawman operating under various aliases, was an Irishman from Ohio. He was hired by the Newton authorities as a Special Policeman to help keep order. During the elections, he got into an argument with another Special Policeman by the name of Billy Bailey. The argument led to violence and McCluskie ended up killing Bailey. It was this event that instigated the Hide Park Gunfight, in which McCluskie was shot in the neck and back by Hugh Anderson during the gunfight.
Myron McCord: Myron McCord’s contribution to law enforcement in the West came through his appointment as a U.S. Marshal in the Arizona Territory. He assumed this role on June 6, 1901, taking on the responsibility of upholding federal law in a region known for its vastness and challenges.
O.W. McCuiston: O.W. McCuiston’s tenure as sheriff of Raton, New Mexico, placed him at the center of a significant labor dispute. In 1894, he became involved in a railway strike, a situation that tested his ability to maintain order and protect the interests of the community.
William Jesse McDonald (1852-1918): William Jesse McDonald was a lawman with a long and varied career. He served as a deputy sheriff in Mineola, Texas, and as a U.S. Deputy Marshal in the Indian Territory. He later rose to the rank of captain in the Texas Rangers.
James “Jim” McIntire (or McIntyre) (1846-1902): James “Jim” McIntire lived a life as a Texas gunman and lawman from 1860. He was a Texas Ranger, city marshal of Las Vegas, New Mexico, deputy sheriff, cowboy, hunter, gambler, and outlaw.
T.W. McIntosh: T.W. McIntosh served as a deputy marshal in Prescott, Arizona, contributing to the enforcement of law and order in this growing frontier town.
Joseph “Joe” W. McKidrict (1871-1894): Joe McKidrict, a twenty-three-year-old Texas Ranger, was shot and killed by U.S. Deputy Marshal Bass Outlaw on April 5, 1894, in El Paso, Texas.
Joseph McKinney (18??-1850): Having served only five months as Sheriff of Sacramento County, California, McKinney and his deputies were trying to arrest several squatters who had taken over land during the California Gold Rush. As the officers attempted to enter the house, gunfire erupted, and when the smoke cleared, Sheriff McKinney and two squatters were killed.
Thomas L. “Tip” McKinney: Thomas L. “Tip” McKinney accompanied Pat Garrett when he killed Billy the Kid on July 14, 1881.
Sherman W. McMasters (1853-??): Sherman W. McMasters was an outlaw turned lawman.
Francis Marion McMahon (18??-1940): Francis Marion McMahon served in Company D of the Texas Rangers and arrested Bass Outlaw on April 4, 1894. He later served as a U.S. Deputy Marshal.
Leander H. McNelly (1844–1877): Leander H. McNelly commanded the “Special Ranger Force” in 1874 which patrolled the Mexico border.
John McPherson (18??-1879): John McPherson served as the Police Chief in Las Vegas, New Mexico, until the Dodge City Gang showed up. He was killed in a gunfight with Charles “Slick” Karl.
Mike Meagher (1844–1881): Mike Meagher served as the Wichita, Kansas Marshal, U.S. Deputy Marshal in Indian Territory, and Caldwell, Kansas Mayor.
Joseph Lafayette Meek (1810-1875): Joseph Lafayette Meek served as the territory’s federal marshal for the next five years.
Hod Miles: Hod Miles was an outlaw turned deputy sheriff, who in January 1888 killed Jake Gibson.
F.M. Miller: F.M. Miller was a female U.S. Deputy Marshal.
James B. Miller, aka Killin’ Jim, Killer Miller, Jim the Killer, Deacon Miller (1866-1909): James B. Miller became a hired gun in the 1880s and served as an occasional lawman in Pecos, Texas.
Alexander Hamilton Mills (1837-1882): Alexander Hamilton Mills was the sheriff of Lincoln County, New Mexico, during the Horrell War.
Jeff Davis Milton (1861-1947): Jeff Davis Milton served for more than 50 years as an Old West lawman.
David Montgomery: David Montgomery was Chief Deputy Marshal of Lincoln County, New Mexico, in 1878.
John “Happy Jack” Morco: John “Happy Jack” Morco was a policeman in Ellsworth, Kansas.
Joe Morgan: Joe Morgan was a gunman and lawman who fought Deputy Sheriff Ben Williams in Las Cruces, New Mexico, on September 15, 1895.
Jeff B. Moore: Jeff B. Moore served several terms as sheriff of Crockett County, Texas.
W.T. “Brack” Morris (18??-1901): W.T. “Brack” Morris served in Company D of the Texas Rangers in 1882 and was sheriff of Kames County, Texas, when he was killed on June 13, 1901.
Alexander L. Morrison, Jr.: Alexander L. Morrison, Jr. served as chief deputy to his father in Santa Fe County, New Mexico.
Alexander L. Morrison, Sr.: Alexander L. Morrison, Sr. was appointed marshal of Santa Fe, New Mexico, in March 1882.
Harry N. Morse (1835–1912): Harry N. Morse was elected Sheriff of Alameda County, where he quickly earned a reputation as a determined manhunter.
George Nelson Moses (1844-1911): George Nelson Moses was a U.S. Deputy Marshal in Arizona and New Mexico, and later the first sheriff of Barton County, Kansas.
Burton C. Mossman (1867–1956): Burton C. Mossman managed the Hashknife Outfit of Arizona to stop the rampant cattle rustling before becoming the first captain of the Arizona Rangers in 1901. This Old West Lawmen List – M includes Burton C. Mossman.
George W. Mowbray: George W. Mowbray worked as a posseman under Heck Thomas, Bill Tilghman, and Chris Madsen in the early 1890s and was later appointed as a U.S. Deputy Marshal himself.
The lives and careers of these individuals, documented in this Old West Lawmen List – M, illustrate the diverse paths that led men (and a few women) to take on the mantle of law enforcement in the American West.