Big Springs

Native Americans and military forces have long camped at nearby springs that served as an oasis in the surrounding area. In 1852, U.S. Capt. Randolph B. Marcy led an expedition in search of the Red River headwaters, and his party camped here on June 16. Records of later military engagements and expeditions involving Col. Ranald S. MacKenzie, Gen. Nelson Miles and others also noted the springs. Archeological investigations have confirmed an 1874 battle between U.S. troops under Lt. Frank Baldwin and the forces of Cheyenne chief Grey Beard occurred in the general vicinity. Nearby development has dramatically decreased the flow of the historic Big Springs over the years. (2006)

Big Springs is a historical marker in Lefors, Gray County, dedicated in 2006. It is one of 17 historical markers documented in Gray County in the Texas Historical Commission Atlas, among 22 historic sites cataloged across the county.

The site sits at 35.4349, -100.8135 near Lefors. The nearest cataloged historic site is Site of Pampa Army Air Force Base (historical marker), about 8.6 miles away. Others within a short drive include Red River Expedition of 1852, Gray County, and Pioneer Cottage.

This record corresponds to Texas Historical Commission Atlas #5507013607. Use the map below for its exact position and turn-by-turn directions.