Malcolm R. Madera (1906-1996) born in Hubbard, Texas, began his career at Ochoa, New Mexico, west of Jal, in 1932. After marrying Ellen Kate Ross in 1933, he purchased his first ranch (the Jim Andrews Ranch) in 1938; later he purchased the old Jim Bryant ranch from his father-in-law, Charley Ross; and finally, the Battle Axe Ranch, which became his permanent residence.

Madera also served his country during WWII, first as a flight instructor at the Naval Air Station in Hutchinson, Kansas, and then as one of the highest-ranking flight instructors at the Naval College for Primary Flight Instructors in New Orleans, Louisiana.  He retired from active duty having achieved the rank of Lieutenant Commander.

According to Madera's nomination form, he loved both ranching and flying.  When the war was over he returned to Jal and continued in the ranching business with his wife, Ellen Kate, and her family on the Battle Ax ranch of Lea County and in Loving County, Texas.   He later became a Lea County Land Commissioner, and was instrumental in getting the Jal to Carlsbad highway built to the Eddy County line.

Madera helped manage the W.T. Ranch in partnership with his brother, Fred, near Pecos, Texas.  At one point they ran 3,000 Mexican steers at one time.  He also partnered with sister-in-law, Tommy Calley, on the El Caso Ranch near Quemado, NM.  The brands he rode for over his lifetime were the Battle Ax, the Six Cross, and the V Bar.

Images and Content Courtesy of the Western Heritage Museum & Lea County Cowboy Hall of Fame