Browning, Judge James Nathan, Homesite of

Cowboy, lawyer, state official and jurist. Born in Arkansas, Browning received only a few months formal education, but taught himself by reading at night by the dim light of a pine knot. At 16, he came with his family to Cooke County, Texas, but later moved west to become a cowboy. His first job as a trail hand opened a nine-year career as a cattleman. His quick mind and desire for knowledge led him to begin the study of law with a law firm at Fort Griffin. Admitted to the Bar in 1876, he began a dual career of public service and private practice that continued through moves to Mobeetie, Clarendon and Amarillo. He was named first district attorney of the 31st Judicial District, a sprawling area taking in the entire Panhandle; he often had to ride hundreds of lonely miles to attend court. He was elected (1882) State Representative from the 43rd District (which included 69 counties). Re-elected in 1884, 1886, 1890, he became a popular champion of the rights of small farmers and settlers against big ranching interests. He served as Lieutenant Governor, 1898-1902; and on the Board of Regents, University of Texas, 1903-1907. From 1906 to 1914 he served as District Judge in Amarillo. Twice married, he had 10 children. (1969)

Browning, Judge James Nathan, Homesite of is a historical marker in Amarillo, Potter County, dedicated in 1969. It is one of 49 historical markers documented in Potter County in the Texas Historical Commission Atlas, among 73 historic sites cataloged across the county.

The site sits at 35.2308, -101.8255 near Amarillo. The nearest cataloged historic site is Thompson, General Ernest O. (historical marker), about under a tenth of a mile away. Others within a short drive include Gregg Trail, Fort Worth and Denver City Railway, First Railroad Through the Texas Panhandle, and A.T. & S.F. No. 5000 "Madam Queen".

This record corresponds to Texas Historical Commission Atlas #5375002545. Use the map below for its exact position and turn-by-turn directions.