Ranching
The word ranch is derived from the Mexican Spanish word rancho, which denotes the home (headquarters) of the ranchero. In Texas, the word initially denoted an establishment engaged in livestock production using range pastures as the primary resource, with or without plowland crops. From the beginning, ranching has included raising cattle, sheep and goats, and horses and has been a major Texas industry for nearly three centuries.
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Commodities produce millions in cash receipts that benefit Texas' economy. Corn, as a crop, has maintained its position as the highest total value crop produced across Texas and averaged $551.12 million in cash receipts annually from 2013-2017.
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Agriculture is one of the most important industries in Texas. The state is one of the top producers of livestock including cotton, sheep, goats, hay, and horses as well as many important crops such as vegetables, citrus, corn, wheat, peanuts, pecans, sorghum and rice. Texas is one of the leading exporters of agricultural commodities.
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Once dominated by the Missions, Texas ranching shaped Texas, its history and environment.
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The eight most notable Texas Ranches have played important roles in Texas History.
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Cattle drives started in earnest after the Civil War.
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In 1801, the Spanish government of Mexico became aware of an attempted insurrection by Phillip Nolan to take over the Texas region and quickly realized the economic potential that Texas had.
It doesn't get any more Texan than this…
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