In Memory of George W. Littlefield
Littlefield, Lamb County, Texas
Marker Inscription
In Memory of George W. Littlefield, a pioneer plainsman, solider and state benefactor. Founder and developer of Yellow House Ranch and the city of Littlefield. Born June 20, 1842. Died November 10, 1920.
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
George W. Littlefield rose from Civil War soldier to one of the great cattlemen of the Texas plains, developing the sprawling Yellow House Ranch and founding the town that bears his name. A financier and philanthropist in his later years, he became a noted state benefactor before his death in 1920. This memorial honors a pioneering figure of the West Texas frontier.
Why it matters
Littlefield personifies the cattle-ranching frontier that transformed the West Texas plains and the fortunes it built into lasting towns and institutions.
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Related people
- ยท George W. Littlefield
Themes & tags
Nearby & related markers
Replica of XIT's Giant Windmill
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Comanchero Trail
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