Ep 5. Real Lone Star Ranger, The

As the fifth episode of season one of Wild West Chronicles, "Real Lone Star Ranger, The" is an enthralling look at one of the most intriguing figures of the Wild West period - Captain Leander H. McNelly, commander of the Texas State Police. Often referred to as the "Real Lone Star Ranger," McNelly is remembered for being a legendary lawman who waged war against the notorious outlaws that terrorized the frontier.

The episode begins with a brief history of the Texas State Police and their mission to control the rampant violence and lawlessness in Texas after the Civil War. Following McNelly's appointment as commander of the state police, he immediately set out to transform the rag-tag group of recruits into a well-trained outfit that could take on the toughest outlaws in Texas.

Through a series of interviews with historians and experts, the documentary explores McNelly's relentless pursuit of justice and his decision to employ unorthodox tactics to achieve his objectives. McNelly famously declared that his goal was to "ride over the border of Mexico, hang a few and return." He was known for being a fierce, yet fair, leader who utilized a combination of cunning and force to apprehend the most wanted criminals in Texas.

The documentary goes on to detail some of McNelly's most famous exploits, including his raids on the Mexican border and his pursuit of notorious outlaw John Wesley Hardin. McNelly's tactics were often controversial, but his unyielding commitment to serving justice and upholding the law earned him a reputation as one of the most effective lawmen of the period.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to stunning footage of the Texas landscape, bringing to life the harsh realities of life on the frontier. The show also includes dramatic reenactments of some of McNelly's most famous battles, depicting the courage and determination of both the lawmen and the outlaws they fought against.

As the episode draws to a close, viewers are left with a deep appreciation for the bravery and tenacity of Captain Leander H. McNelly and the men who fought alongside him. While many of the stories of the Wild West have been romanticized over the years, "Real Lone Star Ranger, The" is a testament to the true grit and determination that characterized the era. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in the history of the Wild West and the brave souls who fought to tame it.