Hays, John Coffee

Texas Ranger and surveyor, John Coffee Hays (1817-1883), came to Texas in 1836, in time to participate in the Texas Revolution.

At Sam Houston's suggestion, Hays joined the Texas Rangers under Erastus "Deaf" Smith. He served in the rangers until 1846, reaching the rank of colonel, and participated in many skirmishes and engagements with Mexican and Indian forces, including the battles of Plum Creek, Salado Creek, Walker's Creek, and Monterrey. Hays formed the 1st Texas Mounted Volunteers Regiment at the start the Mexican War. His exploits during the Republic period in Texas and the Mexican War helped earn the Texas Rangers their legendary reputation as soldiers.

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