In his latest book, “What’s in a Name: Why Fort Davis was Named for Jefferson Davis and Why the Name was Never Changed,” author Larry Francell delves into the intriguing history of Fort Davis, Texas. Situated in the Davis Mountains of Jeff Davis County, the fort’s name has sparked discussions and debates, particularly in light of recent years’ reevaluation of historical figures and their legacies.
Larry Francell, a seasoned historian with degrees from Austin College and UT-Austin, brings over fifty years of experience in museum work and local government to his examination of this historical enigma. Having started his career as a summer ranger at Fort Davis National Historic Site, Francell has a deep personal and professional connection to the area. His extensive involvement in Jeff Davis County’s government and authorship of several works on local history provide him with unique insights into the complexities surrounding the fort’s naming.
In “What’s in a Name,” Francell investigates the origins of how Fort Davis got its name from Jefferson Davis, the President of the Confederacy during the American Civil War, and why it has remained unchanged despite the controversy. The book goes beyond the fort’s naming to explore the broader history of the fort and the key figures involved in its establishment and naming process.
Drawing on his rich background in local history and governance, Francell offers readers a detailed narrative that challenges and enlightens. His exploration addresses the nuanced perspectives of those who lived during the fort’s naming and those who continue to live in its shadow. Francell’s work is particularly timely, given the ongoing national conversations about historical figures and places, their impacts, and their commemorations.
“What’s in a Name” is an essential read for history enthusiasts, scholars, and anyone interested in the cultural and historical landscapes of West Texas. It promises to provide a thoughtful examination of how history is remembered and memorialized in place names and what these names represent to communities today.
For those looking to understand more about the history of Fort Davis and its enduring name, Larry Francell’s book is available in paperback as of December 3, 2023. It can be purchased online or at local bookstores, offering a comprehensive look at one of Texas’s most historically significant sites.
