The problem with which this study is concerned is that of analyzing the implementation of the stated purposes of analyzing the implementation of the stated purposes of Lon Morris College of Jacksonville, Texas from 1847 to 1973. Histories and Journals of the period, records and publications of the school and other institutions, and oral interviews of persons involved in its development provide data for the study. As a historical analysis, the study is divided according to successive periods in the school's development.

This study traces the history of the 28th Texas Cavalry by using a traditional narrative style augmented by a quantitative approach. Compiled service records, United States census records, state tax rolls, muster rolls, and casualty lists were used to construct a database containing a record for each soldier of the 28th. Statistical analysis revealed the overwhelming southern origins of the regiment, the greater proportion of older and married men compared to other regiments, and a close resemblance to the people of their home region in terms of occupations, slaveholding and wealthholding.