Jim Shaw was especially distinguished in Indian-Anglo relations, before arriving in Texas in 1841, he spent time along the Red River learning Native languages. He was well known in Indian Territory by government officials as a useful diplomat, successful trader, and a man of superior intelligence. The U.S. Indian Agent recommended him to Houston who employed him to help carry out his peace policy. Shaw was able to win the trust and friendship of several Penateka Comanche leaders, including Buffalo Hump. In 1846-1847 he was able to use his Comanche contacts to guide German colonists under John O. Meusebach to a suitable site, and helped them establish friendly relations with the Comanches. In 1854 the Shaw brothers and Colonel Robert E. Lee surveyed the site of the Upper Brazos Indian Reservations. Jim Shaw died in 1858 from a fall from the roof of his log cabin as he made repairs.