Historical Marker
Capt. Hardy B. Purvis
Goodrich, Polk County · Texas
Erected 1970
In Mike Cox's account of the hunt for Sim Collins, Hardy Purvis dropped to one knee with his rifle aimed and called on Collins to surrender at his campfire. Both men fired. Collins's bullet struck Purvis's leg above the knee and exited near his hip, while Purvis's shot hit Collins in the right side of the chest, narrowly missing his heart. Purvis survived with a slight limp for the rest of his life, Cox writes, and Collins was later convicted and sent to Huntsville.
What the plaque says
Capt. Hardy B. Purvis (1891-1961) Born in Livingston. In his 20s, became a local peace officer. Spent years 1927-1933 and 1935-1956 in Texas Ranger service. Noted for coolness during danger in oil boom towns, dock strikes, prison riots, Purvis saw duty at Beaumont, Borger, Longview, Lufkin, and Fort Worth. Was captain of a Ranger company and stationed at Houston when he retired. Son L.H. was also a Ranger. His wife Minnie and his daughter are buried here. Recorded -- 1970
Where it stands
30.63543, -94.91078 · Directions
More markers nearby
- Lt. Col. James M. Parker Jr. — 2.3 mi
- Margaret V. "Margo" Jones — 4.3 mi
- Polk County — 5.3 mi
- Polk County, C. S. A. — 5.4 mi