A&M International Announces Second Book in the Canseco-Keck History Series

Texas A&M International University has announced the publication of the second book in the Canseco-Keck History Series.

Titled, Forgotten Texas Leader: Hugh McLeod and the Texan Santa Fe Expedition, the book, written by Paul N. Spellman, tells the story of Hugh McLeod and events in early Texas history.

Spellman narrates the overlooked events in the life of Hugh McLeod, considered by history as "The commander of the failed Santa Fe expedition."

McLeod, trusted by legendary men like Mirabeau B. Lamar, Albert Sidney Johnston and Thomas Jefferson Rusk as a friend and colleague, was the most popular public speaker of his day. He served in the Republic of Texas Legislature, organized the office of Adjutant General, and held officer commissions in four armies over his lifetime. He fought at the Battle for the Neches, wrote the official report of the Council House Fight, helped spur Galveston's growth into a city, and at the time of his death, was next in line to command the Confederate regiment that became known as Hood's Brigade.

McLeod's life as a legitimate Texas leader is revisited as Spellman tells the story of the Texas Santa Fe Expedition, the Council House Fight, and other significant events in Texas history. In his comprehensive retelling of the 1841 expedition, Spellman reminds history readers that the failure of the Santa Fe expedition was caused by many factors, including McLeod's uneven leadership. He notes that the personable general went on to live an active life in service to Texas and the causes in which he fervently believed.

Dr. Jerry Thompson, dean of the College of Arts and Humanities and editor of the Canseco-Keck History Series, said Spellman's book was chosen as part of the Series because it depicts the true life of a Texas leader whose memories have been left in oblivion.

"Spellman's book brings to life a leader who people of all ages should know belonged to an important era in Texas' history. It contains facts derived from quality research and bodes well with the theme of the Series," he said.

The Canseco-Keck Series, sponsored by John Keck and Ceci Canseco Keck, publishes a book once a year that touches on history topics such as the Texas-Mexican border, Texas or the Civil War. The books are published by the Texas A&M University Press. The Series was established in honor of the Canseco-Keck's love for Texas border history.

Both have also established a grant that allows for research on Series topic, Thompson said.

"We are grateful to this visionary couple for their contribution toward Texans' continued learning of their history. By sharing their love for history, they are enriching our lives and, at the same time, providing a great example for future generations who would like to do the same," he said.

For further information, please contact Dr. Thompson at (956) 326-2460. University office hours are 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at pais@tamiu.edu