Smiley’s Meadow
This Meadow, approximately 2100 acres, is the largest section of
native grasslands existing in Texas. It was originally part of a
prairie system that stretched throughout the midweastern United
States and into Canada. Since the earliest settlers arrived in this
area in the 1830’s. When Texas was part of Mexico this grassland
has remained uncultivated, providing an annual harvest of native
grasses.
A lack of fuel and surface water made this area unsuitable for
pioneer farmers. Although similar land nearby was tilled and
planted, often resulting in erosion or over worked soil. This site
was saved by the owner M. L. Smiley (1872-1953). A native of Lamar
County, he used the meadow for cattle grazing and for hay
production.
Early harvest consisted of cutting and stacking the grasses for
drying or transporting the hay to nearby steam powered presses. The
process was later simplified by the use of gasoline powered
machines that harvested and baled the hay on site.
After Smiley’s death, the meadow was inherited by brothers George
S. and Gene M. Woodfin. Hence the name (Smiley-Woodfin Native
Prairie Grassland)
Today the Smiley-Woodfin prarie grassland is the largest supplier
of native hay in the state.
You will be looking for a small magnetic container, should not
be hard to find.