The Cowboy Way of Doing Things
Do what’s right, ride tall, and keep your boots clean—it’s the cowboy way.
Colonel Edwin Vose Sumner was a pivotal figure in the development of law and order in the American West during the late 19th century. As the founder of Fort Union and a leader in cavalry operations, Sumner’s contributions significantly shaped military and civil affairs in a region rife with conflict and lawlessness, particularly during the End of the Frontier period spanning from 1890 to 1912.
The Context of the Old West
The Old West era is characterized by its lawlessness and the struggle to establish order in a rapidly expanding territory. As settlers moved westward, they faced threats from Native American tribes, outlaws, and the harsh realities of a developing society. Fort Union, established in 1851, became a strategic base in the New Mexico Territory, serving as a hub for military operations and a focal point for enforcing law and order.
Fort Union was crucial not only for military purposes but also for facilitating trade routes and safeguarding supply lines, particularly along the Santa Fe Trail.
Colonel Sumner’s Early Life and Military Career
Born on January 30, 1797, in Boston, Massachusetts, Edwin Vose Sumner began his military career in the United States Army in 1819. He rose through the ranks as an experienced cavalry officer, gaining recognition for his leadership during the Mexican-American War. Sumner’s strategic acumen made him an ideal candidate to command forces in the turbulent terrains of the West.
Fort Union: A Legacy of Leadership
As the founder of Fort Union in 1851, Sumner played a crucial role in transforming the military outpost into a formidable bastion against both Native American resistance and criminals seeking to exploit the vulnerable settler populations. Fort Union became one of the largest and most important military installations in the Southwest.
Under Sumners command, the fort provided necessary military support during conflicts such as the Taos Revolt of 1847, and its presence helped legitimize U.S. authority in the region. Over the years, Sumner’s leadership and emphasis on discipline were vital in maintaining the integrity of the forces stationed there.
The army is the instrument of civilization; we shall bring order to a chaotic land. – Colonel Edwin Vose Sumner
Cavalry Operations and Law Enforcement
Sumners Role in Law and Order
Sumner’s role extended beyond the mere establishment of military forts; he was deeply involved in implementing strategies to maintain law and order within the expanding territories. His cavalry units were instrumental in various operations aimed at curbing violence and protecting settlers from both Native American tribes and criminal elements.
The late 19th century saw numerous conflicts, including the Apache Wars, where Sumner’s cavalry units were deployed extensively. Detailed accounts indicate that Sumner utilized tactical formations and rapid movements, often surprising adversaries, which was crucial in subduing uprisings.
Transition to Civilian Law and Governance
As the frontier began to fade in the late 1800s, the militarys role shifted towards supporting local law enforcement agencies. Sumners experiences and training played a significant role in the formation of a more structured approach to law enforcement, paving the way for the establishment of modern police forces in these regions.
Fort Union also served as a training ground for future leaders of law and order, blending military discipline with civil governance principles to address lawlessness effectively.
End of an Era and Lasting Impact
The Significance of 1890-1912
The close of the frontier in 1890 marked a significant shift in American society. With increased settlement and modernization, the need for military presence diminished, leading to transformations in how law and order were perceived and enforced.
Colonel Sumner’s legacy endured as he laid the groundwork for a new era where civilians, rather than military personnel, took charge of maintaining law and order. His methods and philosophies in military operations would influence the escalating complexities of governance in the early 20th century.
Tangible Milestones of Sumner’s Career
1851: Establishment of Fort Union.
1861: Sumner plays a key role in the defense against Confederate forces in New Mexico.
1870s: Active involvement in the Apache Wars.
1890: Recognition of the end of the frontier marks a turning point in law enforcement.
1912: Completion of Sumner’s envisioned structure of civil law enforcement derived from military governance.
Conclusion: Actions and Legacy
Colonel Edwin Vose Sumner’s life exemplifies the complex interplay between military leadership and law enforcement during a transformative era in American history. His founding of Fort Union and his dedication to cavalry operations established a foundation for law and order that would shape the Old West and beyond.
As modern society continues to grapple with issues of governance and public safety, Sumner’s structured approach to maintaining order remains a pertinent example of effective leadership in times of uncertainty.
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