Jim Tiller

Dr. Jim Tiller, a fifth-generation Texan born in Dallas, has been a Professor in the Department of Environmental and Geosciences at Sam Houston State University since 1972, serving as Department Chairman until 1982. His research focuses on historical-geographical studies in the Sabine River-Caddo Lake border area during the early Republic of Texas period.

• Research Specialization: Historical cartography, Caddo Indian removal, Mexican and Texas land surveys, early Anglo settlements in East Texas and Louisiana
• Key Publications: Multi-volume Before the Line series documenting borderland history; award-winning family history Our American Adventure

His work combines archival analysis with geospatial studies to reconstruct colonial-era boundaries. The 2017 collaborative study with John P. Evans on Texas-Louisiana boundary evolution demonstrates his expertise in legal geography.

• Awards:
  • Texas State Genealogical Society's First Place Award (2008) for family history book

As a professor, he teaches GEOG 1401 Weather and Climate, GEOG 3359 Regional Geography, and GEOG 4358 Geography of Texas. His family includes two children working in corporate sectors and five grandchildren.