Jim Highsaw

Jim Highsaw (1854 - unknown), sometimes spelled Hysaw was a cowboy and gunfighter in the Old West, known for his participation in the Pecos War of 1876–1877. Although largely unknown today, Highsaw was well known by his contemporaries and has become a basis for a number of fiction.

Early life James "Jim" Monroe Highsaw was born on 1854 in Eastland County, Texas. By 1860, violence from the ongoing Texas-Indian Wars prompted the Highsaws to move to Erath County. Their name was said to have been the basis for areas such as the High Salt Creek. During that time, former Confederates opposing the Reconstruction began to take over high-ranking government positions in Texas, such as the coveted county sheriffs and other law enforcement positions. These men were dubbed the "Mob" by those who opposed them, including the Highsaws and several other families. In turn, the Mob branded many of them as outlaws. The Highsaw, Witcher, Wylie, and Clary clans then banded together in defiance. At that time, Jim Highsaw became an employee of John Chisum and his Jinglebob Ranch. Highsaw's reputation had also grown, becoming famous for being "quick as lightning on the draw"; as well as one of Chisum's most reliable and feared men. During one incident, he and another cowboy Charles Rankin was fired upon by suspected thieves. Highsaw then went back to Texas.

Later life Highsaw dirfted between Texas and New Mexico, finding employment at the XIT Ranch, 89 Brand Ranch, and Mason Ranch. In the 1880s, he served as an undercover informant for one Captain McMurray of the US Army.

Further indictments on him from various counties in both states, and being pursued by local lawmen and the Texas Rangers, forced Jim Highsaw to hide.