This location documents development of the American cowboy in the area, from 1500s to present day. Additionally, there are Indian and pioneer artifacts, ranch and farm implements, exhibits devoted to Texas Longhorns, wild mustangs, oil and coal fields.
Indians: Special emphasis is centered on the tribes that inhabited South Texas after 1840, particularly the Lipans whose campfires were seen in the area as late as 1906. Other Indians lived here 25,000 years ago.
Spaniards: The Atascosa County area was under Spanish rule from 1521 - 1821 and Mexican rule from 1821 - 1836. Much of the history of those times is portrayed in displays of artifacts and written documents.
Cattle Industry: The location stands on lands that were owned and ranched by San Jose Mission. It was founded as El Rancho Del Atascosa, one of the first ranches in Texas. On this ranch, vaqueros, the first working cowboys, developed techniques of handling cattle while on horseback. The location devotes its major effort in documenting the area as "The Birthplace of the Cowboy."
Wild Game: A recent addition to the location is a multi-million dollar, world-class wild game trophy exhibit.
Additionally, the old SAU&G railroad depot exists at this location. A caboose has been added to the exhibit and is open for viewing.
Hours: Monday - Saturday
10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Admission: By donation
To receive credit for this cache please email the answers to the following questions (do NOT put the answers in the cache log, even if encrypted!):
1. Who was instrumental in erecting the arch at the entrance?
2. Who constructed the arch?
3. Who donated the pipe for use in the arch?