Lecture on Cattle Ranching in Texas

Introduction

• Cattle ranching is a vital part of Texas history and culture.
• Personal anecdote about a calf named "Little Pea."

Historical Context

• 18th Century: Main economic activity in Texas was ranching.
• Post-Civil War:
  • Increase in cattle population during the Civil War as men went to fight.
  • Demand for beef increased; Texas had a large supply.
  • Cattle drives to markets in Kansas, notably Abilene.

Cattle Breeds and Industry Evolution

• Spanish Influence: Introduction of cattle.
• Longhorn Cattle:
  • Known for gaining weight during drives.
  • Mixed with heavier breeds by settlers.
• Open Range Tradition:
  • Cattle roamed freely and were branded for identification.
  • By 1860, Texas had approximately 3.5 million cattle.

Cattle Drives and Trails

• Early trails like the Chisholm Trail led to market centers.
• Conflict: Cattle drives caused issues with local farmers (crops and disease transmission).
• Post-War Changes:
  • Cattle industry expanded with technological advancements like railroads and refrigerated cars.
  • Shift from open range to fenced properties.

Key Figures and Innovations

• Prominent cattlemen: John Chisholm, Charles Goodnight, George Littlefield.
• Development of massive ranches like the XIT Ranch.
• The invention of barbed wire revolutionized land management.

Industry Challenges and Adaptations

• Weather and Disease: Droughts, "Texas fever," and rustling were significant issues.
• Economic Struggles: High freight rates and competition from growing Western states.
• Railroads: Critical for transporting cattle and reshaping industry logistics.

Sheep and Goat Industry

• Brought by Spaniards; sheep for wool, goats for milk.
• Ranching location: Predominantly in the Texas Hill Country.
• Notable figure: Charles Shriner.

Cultural Impact and Transition

• Cattle ranching as a symbol of Texas independence and economic strength.
• Shift from Southern to Western identity.
• Cultural division between East and West Texas.

Conclusion

• Cattle ranching has shaped Texas economically and culturally.
• The state's identity evolved from Southern roots to a more Western image.