A Texian Odyssey:
The Life of Benjamin Franklin Highsmith
Inspired by true events, A Texian Odyssey: The Life of Benjamin Franklin Highsmith tells the story of an Alamo courier, Texas Ranger, and frontier survivor who witnessed the birth of a republic.From battles and brotherhood to loss and legacy, this historical novel brings one man’s forgotten courage to life — drawn from the author’s own Highsmith family history.
About the Author
Randal L. Highsmith is a historical fiction author, genealogist, and descendant of early American pioneers. With deep roots stretching back to the colonial frontier, Randy has spent decades researching his Highsmith ancestry—from the pinewoods of Georgia to the rugged trails of Texas. His passion for history and storytelling converges in A Texian Odyssey: The Life of Benjamin Franklin Highsmith, a novel inspired by his cousin and real-life Texas Ranger and Alamo courier.A native of Florida and a proud member of both the Sons of the American Revolution and The Gideons International, Randy brings a lifetime of perseverance, faith, and heritage to his writing as a childhood burn survivor who endured more than a decade of surgeries, Randy learned early the power of resilience and hope—lessons that echo throughout his writing.By day, he serves as Vice President of Operations at a Florida-based construction firm. By night, he writes beneath the hum of history—preserving the stories of those who shaped America with grit, grace, and courage.He lives in Ocala, Florida, with his wife Kelley, cherishing his roles as a husband, father, and proud grandfather.
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About the Book
An untamed land. A young man’s calling. A nation’s birth.In the wild frontier of early Texas, Benjamin Franklin Highsmith grows from a restless youth into a legendary figure of courage, loyalty, and resilience.
Based on true events, A Texian Odyssey follows Ben’s journey — from crossing the Sabine River as a boy, to standing with the Texian rebels at the dawn of revolution, and riding as a courier during the desperate days of the Alamo.Through battles, loss, love, and the forging of a new republic, Ben’s story reflects the spirit of a generation that dared to dream of freedom — and paid dearly for it.For readers who love sweeping historical fiction filled with heart, hardship, and heroism, this vivid novel brings Texas’s fight for independence to life through one unforgettable man’s eyes.Step into the odyssey. Witness the making of a Texian.
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🎥 Watch the Trailer: A Texian Odyssey Comes to Life
Sources
Rooted in TruthA Texian Odyssey: The Life of Benjamin Franklin Highsmith is grounded in documented history, enriched by family records, and shaped by reverent storytelling. This novel is over 92% historically accurate, based on:Verified pension and service recordsFirsthand accounts from Texian-era documentsFamily oral histories passed down through generationsWritings by A.J. Sowell, Mary Maverick, and othersTexas General Land Office and Republic-era archivesWhere history leaves gaps, I’ve filled them with care and restraint — always striving to honor the spirit of the time and the legacy of those who lived it.This book is both a tribute and a testimony — a story told with fidelity, not just to fact, but to the human heart that beats beneath it.
AcknowledgmentsThis novel weaves together history and storytelling, drawing on a rich tapestry of historical records to bring Benjamin Franklin Highsmith’s life to the page. I owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to the following sources, which provided the foundation for this work. Additionally, I would like to extend heartfelt thanks to all those who offered their support, encouragement, and invaluable insights throughout the writing process.
Primary Sources
• Sowell, A.J. Early Settlers and Indian Fighters of Southwest Texas. Austin: Ben C. Jones & Co., 1900.
o Includes firsthand accounts of Benjamin Franklin Highsmith and his Ranger service, based on interviews conducted by Sowell in the late 19th century.
• Lewis, Oma Highsmith Jones. “No Stranger to the Rain.” In Bear Meat 'n' Honey: An Oral History of the Sabinal Canyon, Volume I, edited by Greg Walton. Austin, TX: Acorn Press, 1990.
o A vivid oral narrative from the granddaughter of Benjamin Franklin Highsmith, providing unique family insights into his life and legacy.
• Frontier Times Magazine, April 1938 & April 1940. Published by J. Marvin Hunter, Bandera, Texas.
o Features Maude Wallis Traylor’s articles on Benjamin Franklin Highsmith and Captain Samuel Highsmith, as well as Revolutionary War-era references to John, Jacob, Daniel, and Moses Highsmith.
• The Galveston Daily News, April 30, 1897. Accessed via the Portal to Texas History (University of North Texas).
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Secondary Sources & Family Genealogy
• Highsmith, Annette Paris. Highsmiths in America. Provo, UT: Press Publishing Co., 1971.
o A foundational genealogy tracing descendants of Daniel Highsmith of Halifax County, NC, including branches leading to both Benjamin Franklin Highsmith and the author.
o Brief memoir by Martha Jane and Mary Deborah Highsmith O’Brien, daughters of Benjamin Franklin Highsmith. Shared by descendant Rick Highsmith, this document affirms family oral tradition about Ben’s role as a courier during the siege of the Alamo.
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Academic Research
• Edwards, Cody. The Highsmith Men, Texas Rangers. Master’s thesis, University of North Texas, 2012.
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Digital Resources
• Texas State Historical Association (TSHA) – www.tshaonline.org
• University of North Texas Digital Library – https://digital.library.unt.edu
• Historical newspaper archives including:
o The Marion News-Tribune
o The Missoulian
o The Ferndale Enterprise
• Ancestry.com and FamilySearch.org – census, military, and genealogical records
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Inspirational Works
These stories taught me to see beyond the facts—to the emotional truths of hardship, resilience, family, and the call of the frontier:
• The Yearling by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings
• Little House on the Prairie by Laura Ingalls Wilder
• The Waltons / Spencer’s Mountain by Earl Hamner Jr.
• Jeremiah Johnson (film inspired by the novel by Vardis Fisher)
• Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer
• My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George
In a special way, these inspirations are woven into my own journey. I have visited Cross Creek—the home of Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings—many times, standing under the very oaks that shaped The Yearling. I have also traveled twice to Schuyler, Virginia, the childhood home of Earl Hamner Jr., where I had the honor of meeting many cast members of The Waltons and speaking personally with Mr. Hamner by phone. It was a privilege to help maintain the website for the 2015 documentary Earl Hamner Storyteller, preserving his legacy of faith, family, and resilience. My wife and I also attended a Sunday service at the Baptist church where Earl Hamner and his family worshiped—a reminder that the strongest stories are born not only of place, but of enduring spirit.
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I extend special thanks to Helen Reavis Jones, great-great-granddaughter of Benjamin Franklin Highsmith, for helping uncover invaluable family records, photographs, and sources—including the 2011 commemorative event and excerpts from Bear Meat ’N’ Honey. Her generosity and dedication to preserving our shared heritage brought vital clarity to this work.Finally, to the many unnamed family historians, archivists, and descendants who preserved these stories across generations—this book is for you.
The Highsmith Ledger
A Historical Blog of Texian Courage, Family Legacy, and Forgotten Footnotes
🗓️ July 8, 2025
✍️ By Randal L. Highsmith
🪶 Welcome to the Ledger
This blog was created to support and expand on A Texian Odyssey: The Life of Benjamin Franklin Highsmith, a historical novel grounded in real events, real service, and real sacrifice. But more than that, this space exists to give voice to the often-overlooked men and women who shaped Texas — not only the celebrated heroes, but those like Benjamin Franklin Highsmith, whose contributions have too often been buried in the margins of memory.Here you’ll find:Posts about the real history behind the bookHighlights from primary sources, pension records, and oral traditionsReflections from descendants and readersDiscussions about controversies, omissions, and evolving perspectives in Texas historiography
📜 A Reader’s Reflection: Will Highsmith Responds
Shortly after the book’s release, I received a moving and thought-provoking note from Will Highsmith, a direct descendant of Benjamin Franklin Highsmith. With his permission, I share it here to open this blog’s conversation:A lot of these points were made by Will.
“It’s sad that people try to discredit the true story and legacy of Benjamin Franklin Highsmith.While much is still being discovered, he was well-known during his time and his story is not fiction.There are too many accounts from newspapers, historians, and relatives who preserved his story.Some online forums question his credibility, but the facts—and the records—speak for themselves.Thank you for telling his story with honor.”
Will's words struck a chord. They are a reminder that this journey isn't just about recounting battles or dates. It's about vindicating memory — especially when the record has been clouded by time, silence, or oversimplification.🧭 In Defense of a Forgotten Courier
The figure of Albert Martin is widely credited with carrying Travis's “Victory or Death” letter from the Alamo — and rightly so. His name is on the document that survives. But that does not mean he was the only courier. In fact, historical precedent and available evidence strongly suggest that multiple copies were sent with multiple riders.Benjamin Franklin Highsmith, in his later years, recalled riding out from the Alamo to carry a message — if not the letter, then a letter. Some have doubted this claim, pointing to the absence of documentation. But as I argue in both the novel and in my research notes, absence of evidence is not evidence of absence.Highsmith was:A participant in nearly every key battle of the RevolutionA proven courier and Ranger by tradeIlliterate, which means his story passed through oral tradition, not personal diariesNever self-aggrandizing; in fact, he remained poor and unrecognized for most of his lifeHis claim was not one of ego, but of memory — and memory matters in a world where the voices of the common soldier were rarely written down.🔍 What the Novel Reflects
In A Texian Odyssey, I do not name every possible courier, but I do acknowledge the likelihood of multiple riders. The novel dramatizes Highsmith’s escape from the Alamo and his attempt to return — a thread based on family tradition, newspaper interviews, and period military practices.Other known or probable couriers include:Albert Martin (to Gonzales)
John William Smith (guided reinforcements back)
Edward Kimble
Launcelot Smithers
Possibly James AllenHighsmith’s contribution fits within this broader network of desperate communication, and his story deserves to be included in that frame — not erased because it lacks notarized paperwork.🕯️ Why It Matters
If we’re to build an honest, inclusive history of Texas, we must be willing to examine what was left out as carefully as what was written down. The Highsmith Ledger will continue to explore these gray spaces — places where truth and memory overlap, where courage outpaced recognition.I am grateful to Will Highsmith for his encouragement, and I invite others to share reflections, sources, and questions as we keep this conversation alive.📝 Have a question or family memory to share?
Use the contact form or reply on the Facebook page linked below.
🗓️ July 9, 2025
✍️ By Randal L. HighsmithTitle: Press Release: A Texian Odyssey Launches — Honoring a Forgotten Texian HeroWe’re proud to share that A Texian Odyssey: The Life of Benjamin Franklin Highsmith was recently featured in The Blackshear Times, a respected publication serving Brantley County, Georgia — the ancestral home of the Highsmith family.📖 The Story:
The article spotlights the newly released historical novel by Randal L. Highsmith, a Florida-based author and genealogist who traces his roots to the very soil Benjamin Franklin Highsmith once walked. The book brings to life a true Texian hero — a scout, a courier from the Alamo, a survivor of San Jacinto, and a Texas Ranger.⚔️ Why It Matters:
This is more than a book. It’s a legacy reclaimed. Through 80+ chapters, original illustrations, and meticulous research, the novel honors the life of a man long overshadowed by history’s more famous names. Highsmith didn’t just witness the fight for Texas independence — he lived it.📚 Paperback coming soon!
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🗓️ July 10, 2025
✍️ By Randal L. HighsmithA Word from the Author:When I set out to write A Texian Odyssey, I knew I wanted the story of Benjamin Franklin Highsmith to be more than just names and dates—I wanted it to feel real, personal, and lasting. I also knew that it would take a special voice to set the tone. That’s why I was deeply honored when Greg Walton, a gifted writer, historian, and author of Bear Meat 'N' Honey, agreed to write the foreword.Greg has spent decades capturing the voices of the Hill Country—including the powerful oral history of Oma Highsmith Jones Lewis, Ben’s granddaughter. His words about Ben—written with deep respect, historical insight, and heart—mean the world to me.Here’s the full foreword:A Texian Odyssey
Foreword
By Greg Walton
Small country cemeteries have a unique charm. Most are isolated, wild, natural places of love and faith. The graves in a community cemetery tell the story of the community, and in turn, the identity of the community is drawn from the life stories of the men and women who lie there.
Along a lonesome stretch of road in the Sabinal Canyon of southwest Texas lies the Jones Cemetery. It is an old cemetery by Texas standards, established by Brother Jones, a reverend of the local Methodist Church, in the 1870s. Many of Utopia’s leading citizens lie here in repose. Although prominent in the local community, most are unknown beyond the surrounding hills of this little slice of the Texas Hill Country. Early circuit-riding preachers, pioneers of all types, cowmen and cowboys, storekeepers, farm wives, and authors all rest easy here under the large live oak trees. There are at least a dozen veterans of the Civil War—nearly all of them Confederate soldiers. My parents, grandmother, and brothers rest here, too, as do members of most of the families in this small Hill Country village.
Among the nearly forgotten headstones is that of Benjamin Franklin Highsmith. The quiet setting, the faded stone, and the heavily eroded words belie the almost unbelievable contribution Ben Highsmith made to Texas history—and to the quest for freedom and self-determination earned by the Republic of Texas.
Randy Highsmith’s book, A Texian Odyssey, tells not only the story of Ben Highsmith’s exploits, but, uniquely, explores his personal values and principles, and how they informed his behavior. A local author once described Ben Highsmith this way:
Virtually unknown beyond the Sabinal Canyon, Ben Highsmith saw more of the events in the birth of Texas than perhaps anyone. He was witness to the fall of the Alamo and the Texicans’ subsequent victory over Santa Anna’s forces. He helped defend the fragile Texas Republic against both Mexican and Comanche forces, and he fought in the Mexican-American and Civil Wars. He served as a Texas Ranger under Captain Jack Hays, at some of the most dangerous and formative battles of early Texas history. Time and again, he risked his life in defense of his adopted homeland. If there is an unsung hero of Texas, it is Ben Highsmith.
What makes a man like Ben Highsmith choose the life of a warrior? From where does he draw such bravery and self-sacrifice? From all reports, he was a modest, temperate man, and a devout member of his local church. Nor was he a man of imposing strength or stature; his granddaughter described him as slight-built and rather short. He was not violent or abusive by nature. And yet he possessed an unusual inner strength—fearless, even calm, in the face of violent conflict and death.
That Ben Highsmith was involved in a tremendous number of battles is irrefutable. From the Alamo and San Jacinto to most of the major conflicts during the life of the Republic of Texas, through innumerable scrapes as a Texas Ranger, and into his years fighting for the Confederacy, one can only be amazed at his tenacity. Without doubt, he believed deeply in Texas—and in the principles of Texas as he saw them.
The exploration of those values is what makes A Texian Odyssey a unique and valuable addition to the many books about the Texas frontier.
The story which Randy Highsmith has woven here about his 3rd cousin four times removed, Benjamin Franklin Highsmith, is the result of years of painstaking and personal research. Randy’s rendition of Ben’s story blends historical fact with informed fiction to honor Ben’s life and legacy. It is rooted in family but written for a broader audience—anyone who values courage, resilience, and heritage. His goal was to preserve not just the events Ben lived through, but the values he embodied: duty, humility, faith, and a fierce loyalty to both people and principle. He succeeded.
From Ben’s grave, one can see the Sabinal River a mile to the east. A line of cypress trees—some of them a thousand years old—marks the life-giving river. The river itself is named for these magical and ancient giants. At an equal distance to the west flows the West Prong of the Sabinal, its route similarly marked by graceful, ancient cypress. Beyond the western hills lies Blanket Creek, where Ben made his final homestead.
These two streams, the Sabinal and the West Prong, embracing the little cemetery as they do, remind us that some things—like cypress trees and a brave man’s selfless deeds—endure forever.
🗓️ July 12, 2025
✍️ By Randal L. Highsmith📚 Coming Soon – Paperback Edition!
I’m thrilled to share a first look at the paperback proof of my upcoming historical novel:
A Texian Odyssey: The Life of Benjamin Franklin Highsmith
by Randal L. Highsmith
This book brings to life the incredible true story of one of Texas’ lesser-known heroes — a scout, soldier, and survivor of both the Alamo and San Jacinto. It's been a rewarding journey to research, write, and now hold it in my hands.
📝 I’m currently reviewing the proof copy — checking layout, photo clarity, and overall print quality — to ensure it’s just right before launch.
📖 The official paperback release is right around the corner. Stay tuned for launch day details!
Thank you for your support as this project nears the finish line!
🗓️ July 24, 2025
✍️ By Randal L. Highsmith
📘 It's Official: A Texian Odyssey Is Now Available!
I’m thrilled to announce that my historical novel, A Texian Odyssey: The Life of Benjamin Franklin Highsmith, is now officially live and available on Amazon!This labor of love tells the story of my 3rd cousin 4x removed—Benjamin Franklin Highsmith—a Texian courier at the Alamo, a Texas Ranger, and a pioneer who helped shape the very roots of Texas. This is more than just a story of war and wilderness; it’s a tale of grit, legacy, and faith, deeply rooted in family history and careful research.✅ Available in Both eBook and Paperback Formats:
📖 Paperback on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FJLVTH6B✍️ Prefer a signed paperback?
I’m offering a limited number of author-signed copies through my website for $24.99 + shipping.
👉 Order your signed copy here: https://www.texianodyssey.com/#signedI want to sincerely thank everyone who supported me on this journey—your encouragement has meant the world. If you enjoy Texas history, frontier life, or nostalgic storytelling in the spirit of The Waltons or Little House on the Prairie, I believe you’ll enjoy this ride.📚 Already read the eBook? The final paperback edition includes corrected edits and new illustrations, making it a worthy addition to your shelf.Thank you again, and I hope you’ll consider grabbing a copy—and maybe even sharing the story with others who appreciate Texas heritage and family legacy.
🗓️ July 25, 2025
✍️ By Randal L. Highsmith
🎥 A Glimpse into A Texian Odyssey: Meet Benjamin Franklin Highsmith
I recently put together a short video promo to introduce readers to the heart of my novel: Benjamin Franklin Highsmith, the Texian whose life inspired A Texian Odyssey.Born in 1817 and living until 1905, Benjamin was a real man of the frontier—an Alamo courier, Texas Ranger, and pioneer whose legacy has largely been overlooked by history books. This story is my way of bringing his journey to life and honoring the grit, faith, and perseverance that defined him.📽️ Watch the Video
Take a moment to watch the short promo I created belo—just a glimpse into the spirit of the man behind the story. You’ll find it on my Facebook page, and I hope it gives you a feel for the tone and soul of the book.📖 Ready to Dive into the Full Story?
Now available in eBook and paperback formats on Amazon:
👉 Buy on AmazonPrefer something a little more personal?
✍️ I'm offering signed paperback copies directly through my website:
👉 Get a Signed CopyThis story has been years in the making—drawing from family genealogy, historical records, and a love for preserving Texas history. Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of Western storytelling, or simply love a story about legacy and resilience, I hope this book finds a place on your shelf—and in your heart.Thank you for taking this journey with me.—Randal Highsmith
Author, Historian, Texian at Heart
A Texian Odyssey: The Life of Benjamin Franklin Highsmith - Promo
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Thank you for your purchase of A Texian Odyssey: The Life of Benjamin Franklin Highsmith!Your signed copy is now in the works and will be carefully packaged and mailed within 10 business days.If you included a personalization or inscription request, I’ll be sure to honor it with care.Feel free to contact me at [email protected] if you have any questions about your order.Warmest thanks for supporting this journey through Texas history.
With gratitude,
Randal L. “Randy” Highsmith
Author, Historian & Texian Descendant