The Dallas – Fort Worth area was the last major stop for relaxation and supplies for drovers who herded cattle up the Chisholm Trail to the railheads. Beyond Fort Worth, they would need their energy to cross the Red River and into Indian Territory. More than four million head of cattle were trailed through what was coined, “Cowtown.” When the railroad reached the area in the 1870s, it became a major shipping point for livestock. Here are 13 local photos that showcase these Wild West times:
- This 1888 photo shows the typical attire worn by a drover.
Texas Parks & Wildlife Department You’ll note the traditional chaps, bandana, hat, and pointy boots to easily and quickly get his feet in the stirrups.
- The cattle drives passed through Denton County (north of Fort Worth) on their way to Cowtown.
Discover Denton
- Water constantly had to be crossed on the Chisholm Trail.
Texas Parks & Wildlife Department Herds had to cross the Brushy Creek, Brazos River, Colorado River, Red River, and Trinity Ford.
- This 1902 photo shows a cowboy standing watch over the longhorn cattle.
Texas Parks & Wildlife Department
- Some cowboys take time to strike a pose in Fort Worth.
Stockyards Museum
- During the stockyards’ heyday, the pens were full and business was lively.
Stockyards Museum
- Here are some of the brands sported by the livestock during this period.
Texas Parks & Wildlife Department
- Armour & Co. and Swift & Co. to built plants near the Stockyards in 1902.
Fort Worth Stockyards The two companies decided where to build based on a coin toss. While the Armour plant has now been demolished, Swift’s location lives on as corporate offices.
- In 1907, the Cowtown Coliseum was completed just in time for the Feeders & Breeders Show.
North Fort Worth Historical Society It also became home to the first indoor rodeo.
- The historic Livestock Exchange Building around the turn of the century.
Fort Worth Stockyards
- In 1917, Fort Worth was the largest horse and mule market in the world.
North Fort Worth Historical Society
- The Stockyards during the early 1900s.
Fort Worth Stockyards
- This 1950s photo shows cattle drives still continuing.
Briscoe Center for American History
To learn more about Dallas – Fort Worth’s cattle driving history, consider paying a visit to any of the fine establishments that work to preserve our history, including the Stockyards Museum, the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District, and the Briscoe Center for American History.
Texas Parks & Wildlife Department
You’ll note the traditional chaps, bandana, hat, and pointy boots to easily and quickly get his feet in the stirrups.
Discover Denton
Herds had to cross the Brushy Creek, Brazos River, Colorado River, Red River, and Trinity Ford.
Stockyards Museum
Fort Worth Stockyards
The two companies decided where to build based on a coin toss. While the Armour plant has now been demolished, Swift’s location lives on as corporate offices.
North Fort Worth Historical Society
It also became home to the first indoor rodeo.
Briscoe Center for American History
Stories of our historic cattle drives, Hell’s Half Acre, what happened when the railroads came to town, and the era of the Wild West in general are what make the Dallas – Fort Worth area so interesting. What attraction, museum, or sculpture across the Metroplex most reminds you of our cattle drive heritage? We’d love for you to share your thoughts in the comments below.
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