Near Route of Famous Cattle Trail
Leakey, Real County, Texas
Marker Inscription
One of many "feeder trails" in Texas that converged with the legendary Chisholm Trail above the Red River, this route directed thousands of longhorns to northern markets during the first year after the Civil War. Many local settlers took part in the drives, which lasted for months, and their tales are full of stampedes and Indian raids. At times, the trail was used by herds of 200-300 hogs being driven 40 miles to local markets. The cattle industry and trails such as this helped save Texas' economy -- torn by the Civil War -- and enriched pioneer folklore. (1968)
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
This route was one of many Texas "feeder trails" that funneled longhorn cattle north to join the legendary Chisholm Trail above the Red River, driving thousands of animals to market in the years after the Civil War. The drives lasted months and were full of stampedes and the danger of Indian raids, and local settlers rode along, later spinning their experiences into frontier folklore. At times even herds of hogs were driven forty miles down the trail to market.
Why it matters
The cattle trails rescued a Texas economy shattered by the Civil War and gave America one of its most enduring myths—the cowboy and the long drive north.
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Related events
- · Chisholm Trail cattle drives
Themes & tags
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