The central character of the book, J.W. Gailey (1861-1922), was a highly successful cattleman during a time when Texas was still being tamed. This book tracks the migration of his ancestors from Kentucky to Texas in the 1850's. It follows the family as they deal with the hardships of Civil War and death. It also follows the ups and downs as they move from rapidly developing South Texas region to the then wilderness of North Central Texas. The book follows the interesting life of J.W. Gailey and ends with a pictorial look at his 11 descendants and their families.