Lee Simmons
Sherman, Grayson County, Texas
Marker Inscription
(1873-1957) Ran for sheriff at request of citizens of Denison. Elected in 1912 and served two years. Was appointed by Governor Pat Neff to special commission in 1920's to inspect Texas prison system; named by Governor Dan Moody to prison board, 1928; In 1930 became general manager of prison system, where he made an outstanding record. Organized prison rodeo. Died before completing autobiography "Assignment Huntsville". Recorded, 1967
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Lee Simmons (1873–1957) stepped into public life when Denison citizens urged him to run for sheriff, winning election in 1912. In the 1920s successive governors tapped him to inspect and then oversee the Texas prison system, and by 1930 he was its general manager, earning a strong reputation and famously founding the Texas Prison Rodeo. He died before finishing his autobiography, fittingly titled "Assignment Huntsville."
Why it matters
His career reflects the Progressive-era push to reform and modernize state prison systems across America.
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Related people
- · Lee Simmons
- · Pat Neff
- · Dan Moody
Themes & tags
Nearby & related markers
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