Dateline: October 25, 2001

Book spotlights life of local pioneer man  

In conjunction with the 2002 Gray County Centennial activities, author Delbert Trew of Alanreed, has published a new book entitled The RO Brand which chronicles the life of Alfred Rowe, founder of McLean and the RO Ranch.

In addition to all known references published about Rowe, the new book presents original photographs received from the Rowe Estate in England and extensive new information gleaned from land abstracts and legal documents filed in both early day Gray and Donley Counties after they were organized.

This personal insight into Rowe’s life shows the intellect, honesty, and hard-working habits he practiced allowing the Englishman to accumulate a fortune in land and cattle assets between the years of 1878 and 1912 when he perished on the Titanic.

Another feature of the book is a detailed explanation of how land acquisition in early day Texas worked allowing the Big Ranch Era to exist for many years. The books ends with the facts and figures of the final disposition of Alfred Rowe’s estate and the start of the Lewis Era of RO Ranch history. A special page reviews facts and details of the Titanic disaster. Detailed maps, early day town plots of McLean and Rowe, and other historical documents are also contained in the book.

The paperback edition has 48 pages, 28 photos, and numerous Western illustrations. It is on sale at the Burton Memorial Library or at the two McLean museums for $8. You can also purchase the book from the author for $9.50 including shipping and handling. Send check to Delbert Trew, Box A, Alanreed, TX 79002.