Exploration Route of Lt. James W. Abert
Masterson, Moore County, Texas
Marker Inscription
(Campsites: 5 mi. SW and 3 mi. NE of marker) The United States government had the Canadian River explored in 1845, just before Texas joined the Union. Topographical engineer James W. Abert (1820-1897), a West Point graduate, had charge of a 33-man party, and spent two or more days in the vicinity of this marker. Near here he was visited by Kiowa Indians, who said that they were at war with Texans. Abert was made welcome after he proved to be an American. His map of the river and notes on geography and the Indians proved valuable to Texas and the nation. (1974)
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
In 1845, just as Texas was joining the Union, the U.S. government sent West Point topographical engineer Lt. James W. Abert and a 33-man party to map the Canadian River. Camping near this spot, Abert was visited by Kiowa who said they were at war with Texans but welcomed him once he proved to be an American, and his maps and notes on the river's geography and its native peoples became valuable to the young state and nation.
Why it matters
It marks the federal scientific reconnaissance that turned the Southern Plains from unknown territory into charted ground on the eve of national expansion.
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Related people
- · James W. Abert
Themes & tags
Nearby & related markers
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