Herefords in Sweetwater
Sweetwater, Nolan County, Texas
Marker Inscription
Organized 1922, the Sweetwater Hereford Breeders Association and Auction Sale (now Sweetwater Area Hereford Association) is considered Texas' third oldest group formed to promote this fine beef breed. First Officers: Walter L. Boothe, president; G.E. Bradford and J.D. Dulaney, vice presidents; E.P. Neblett, secretary. The Texas Hereford Association assisted local breeders in early sales. First sale was held March 1, 1922. Then semi-annual events, sales are now held annually. Some consignors to the Golden Anniversary Sale, December 4, 1972, are from families of the organizers. (1972)
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Organized in 1922, the Sweetwater Hereford Breeders Association was reckoned Texas' third-oldest group formed to promote the white-faced Hereford beef breed, holding its first sale that March 1. Led by founding officers like president Walter L. Boothe, the association—aided early on by the statewide Texas Hereford Association—turned semi-annual sales into an enduring annual event. By its 1972 Golden Anniversary Sale, consignors still included descendants of the original organizers.
Why it matters
It documents how organized livestock breeding and cooperative auctions built the cattle economy of West Texas, a cornerstone of the American ranching tradition.
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Related people
- · Walter L. Boothe
- · G.E. Bradford
- · J.D. Dulaney
- · E.P. Neblett
Themes & tags
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