Daniel Webster (80 John) Wallace, born a slave in Victoria County, Texas, on September 15, 1860, did not like farm work, and ran away to become a cowboy. Daniel worked for a number of ranchers in east-central Texas, but it was through his work as a wrangler and horse breaker for John Nunn—whose brand on his cattle was a large number 80—that “80 John” eventually became Webster’s nickname. While Webster was a typical cowboy in some respects, he was atypical in others. He saw a bigger future for himself than many of his peers who were contented to spend their lives following someone else’s cattle. He realized that his lack of education was a handicap and traveled to Navarro County, Texas, where he learned to read and write. He also married Laura Dee Owens, who by comparison was well-educated, on April 8, 1888.
By his mid-twenties, 80 John Wallace had made an arrangement with his boss, Clay Mann, to accept cattle as part of his pay. He later acquired a 1,280 acre ranch, a reputation for fairness and hard work, and a savvy that allowed him to survive in the ranching business. Daniel Webster “80 John” Wallace died on March 28, 1939, leaving behind a legacy that included a wife, three daughters, and a son; a well earned respect from all who knew him; and an estate valued at more than $1 million. He also received the admiration of Mitchell County and the state of Texas with an historical marker recognizing his achievements and a school named in his honor.
