If you have been considering making a move to this area of Texas, and you are interested in Dalhart, TX real estate, then you might want to take some time to learn a bit about some of the history behind the area. Dalhart is considered by many to be known as XIT City. This is because it had a relationship to the XIT Ranch, which was based in the area.
A Brief History of the XIT Ranch
XIT Ranch has a colorful and interesting history. During the 1880s, it was the largest ranch in the world, which also happened to be entirely fenced. It incorporated 1,500 miles of fencing around the perimeter of the massive ranch. XIT, which started its operations as a ranch in 1885, was so large that it stretched across many counties including Baily, Castro, Cochran, Dallam, Deaf Smith, Hartley, Hockley, Lamb, Oldham, and Parmer.
There is a myth that the name XIT actually stood for Ten in Texas, as it was covered parts of the ten aforementioned counties. However, there is another legend as to how they came up with the name for the ranch. As with many ranches of the day, they needed to have a brand made to help reduce the problems with cattle rustling. Using XIT as the brand was difficult for rustlers to reproduce, so that is quite likely the reason it is called the XIT Ranch. Whichever version might be true, both are certainly interesting.
The Ranch featured 325 windmills, 100 dams for water regulation, and at one point, they had more than 150,000 head of cattle. Unfortunately for the ranch, it did not last long. This was due in part to the massive size of the ranch, and the fact that the cattle market crashed shortly after it opened. They were also trying to deal with rustlers and wolves preying on their cattle, and it was just too much land to handle. The last heads of cattle were sold in 1912, and the ranch was no more.
The XIT Ranch Today
In beautiful Dalhart, the history of XIT Ranch is still alive and it is celebrated annually thanks to the XIT Rodeo and Reunion. Each August, this event is host to the largest barbecue in the world, along with a junior rodeo and a PRCA (Professional Rodeo Cowboys) event. They have a range of other activities during the event, including three days of live music. It is always a big draw and a time that the locals look forward to each year.
The XIT Ranch itself might have faded into history, but the memory is alive and well via not only the rodeo, but also the XIT museum. One of the newest eateries in the area, the X10 in Texas derives its name from the historic ranch. Are You Looking to Move to the Area? While the area’s history is certainly interesting, there are plenty of other reasons to consider moving to the Dalhart area. It’s a friendly and welcoming small town with big Texas personality. If you want to know more about Dalhart, TX real estate, or you are interested in Dalhart, TX rentals, get in touch today.