Lucien Lee Price

Lucien Lee Price was born on June 4, 1878, in Brenham, Washington County, Texas. He was described as a dignified and impressive man who stood more than six feet tall.

Price earned his teaching credentials at the University of Colorado. Before moving to Cochran County, he served as superintendent of other Texas schools.

In the summer of 1932, Price moved to Morton with his wife, Estelle, and their two daughters. He came to the community to serve as the new superintendent of Morton Schools.

Price retired from the superintendent's position in 1933 to pursue other interests. He and Estelle purchased a small farm west of Morton and a store building on the north side of the Morton town square.

Price became a strong supporter and advocate for local farmers.

In 1938, Price was elected Cochran County judge and ex-officio superintendent of county schools. He entered office on January 1, 1939, and served through December 31, 1940.

Price was known for his integrity. Members of the community continued to address him affectionately as “Judge Price” for the remainder of his life.

During World War II, Price served as chairman of the Cochran County savings bond drives. He was proud of the commendations he received for his work supporting those efforts.

Price later maintained an office in his store building. There, he prepared income tax returns and helped local residents with business matters and other problems.

Judge Price suffered a stroke and died on April 25, 1955, at Cochran Memorial Hospital in Morton. He was 76 years old.

Lucien Lee Price was buried at Resthaven Memorial Park in Lubbock, Texas.

Biography source: Adapted from Texas Sesquicentennial: Texas' Last Frontier, Cochran County, 1836–1986, Volume 1 . Copyright Cochran County Historical Commission. Written by Ruth Price Morris circa 1985 and adapted by Mary Helen McKnight in 2016.