Marker Inscription
The main route -1876 to 1887- for several hundred thousand longhorns driven north to stock ranches and Indian reservations and to supply beef market. Was also called Dodge City Trail, for its main terminus; or Fort Griffin Trail, for the site where feeder trails joined. This major branch began in South Texas, passed the western outskirts of Abilene, and from here moved northeast to Fort Griffin. An alternate route ran to the Red River, then to Kansas. Use of the trail ceased after fenced ranges blocked route, and Texas & Pacific Railway arrived. (1968)
About this site
Western Cattle Trail, Site of is a historical marker in Abilene, Taylor County, dedicated in 1968. It is one of 49 historical markers documented in Taylor County in the Texas Historical Commission Atlas, among 129 historic sites cataloged across the county.
The site sits at 32.4514, -99.7720 near Abilene. The nearest cataloged historic site is Blanton, Thomas L., House (historic place), about 0.7 miles away. Others within a short drive include Abilene Woman's Club Building, McDonald Hall, and Sayles, Hattie and Henry, Sr., House.
This record corresponds to Texas Historical Commission Atlas #5441004913. Use the map below for its exact position and turn-by-turn directions.
