Do the people of Paris know that probably the greatest lawman of the west was a native of your area. His name was Bass Reeves and he was born a slave and worked for George Reeves who was a Texas Representative that later became Speaker of the House in Texas.
After his flight to freedom in Indian Territory he became probably the first Black Deputy US Marshall west of the Mississippi.
His story is exceptional and he should be better known than Earp, Hickok or Masterson. Due to the fact that he was black most of the fame he deserves has never been afforded him.
In an effort to help remedy this I have written a book that covers his life in Paris, Texas. The title is Young Bass Reeves and it should be on Amazon by October of 2011.
If you have questions about this great man please contact me.