BRACKEN, JOHN W. (1857~1939) John W. Bracken, Texas Ranger and Spanish American War veteran, was born in Rusk, Cherokee County, Texas on July 27, 1857, to Edward R. and Sarah Watkins Bracken. Shortly after his birth, the family moved to Austin.

Bracken served as a Texas Ranger in Company B of the Texas Frontier Battalion, fought in the Spanish American War, where he was a sergeant of Company M of the 1st U. S. Volunteer Infantry. He also served in the Austin Police Department.

At the age of 81, he passed away at his home, 1907 Eva Street, on April 3, 1939. He was survived by his wife, Frances, and was buried in the Texas State Cemetery the next day.

Information taken from: Texas Ranger Records; Obituary, un-identified newspaper, Tuesday, April 4, 1939, page 9; and Death Certificate.