Re-Visiting The National Ranching Heritage Center
The first time I visited the National Ranching Heritage Center in Lubbock, Texas, was in the early 2010s, and it made an impression on me. I still remember how it was outside in a West Texas summer, not a cloud in the big blue sky as we walked around the historic buildings and couldn’t take our eyes off the train. It was all fascinating and a memorable experience for me. When I had the opportunity to return, I was excited to see if things had changed. In the fall of 2025, my parents, aunt, uncle, and cousin went with me to the National Ranching Heritage Center.
The first exhibit we saw was on the evolution of historic ranching vehicles, spurs, and even included a Wells Fargo stagecoach that visitors are invited to sit in and experience for themselves. With different vehicles on display, I learned about how ranching equipment adapted with the times and those who made the adaptations. Famous rancher and inventor Charles Goodnight is one who is featured for his contributions. He co-created the Loving-Goodnight Trail, a major cattle trail and one of the most important that was used to drive herds North from Texas to Colorado. Charles Goodnight, the Father of the Panhandle, is also credited with inventing the chuckwagon in 1866 by converting a surplus military wagon into a mobile kitchen to feed cowboys during the long cattle drives.
The next exhibit was on the life, achievements, and impact of the brilliant Comanche chief and political leader, Quanah Parker. Photographs, Native American artifacts, and thorough information made it a moving and unforgettable glimpse into the man who had foresight of what direction the country was taking and who fought unwaveringly for his people. We really took our time with this exhibit and talked together about what we were learning. It was even emotional as we read about his mother, Cynthia Ann Parker, and the way that bison were used in the plan to weaken Native American tribes. It is truly a revealing exhibit that is worth taking the time to read through.
Longhorn mounts and staged furniture from the 6666 Ranch waited just beyond the Quanah Parker exhibit. The history behind the furniture and the background of the Longhorn mounts gave insight into one of the greatest cattle ranches in the U.S.
The next section was the exhibit of Western art and unique self-expression through ranching gear. Displaying artwork that was inspired by the 6666 Ranch and portraits of different people who were a part of its legacy, there is a painting of the last descendant of its legendary founder, Samuel Burk Burnett. The late Anne Marion’s beautiful portrait by Paul Milosevich hangs in the gallery. Across from her portrait are captivating pastel paintings by artist and inventor Frank Reaugh. Looking at his interpretations of the landscapes of Texas drew me straight into the story he painted. I heard the wind blowing through the grass and the trees, I saw the big clouds hanging in the air, I felt that distinctive Texas sun, and heard the cattle as they grazed. As a proud Texan, each pastel surfaced memories and evoked emotion. I hadn’t expected to be so enthralled by the Western art gallery!
The Hank the Cowdog exhibit was the one that blew us all away. Approachable and enjoyable for all ages, it teaches every aspect of ranching through material provided by the popular and humorous series by West Texas author John R. Erickson. Starting with an introduction by the prolific writer himself, there is an encouraging emphasis on the importance of preserving the waning North American prairie and how the ranchers contribute to this endeavor. It gives insight into a working ranch, the prairie ecosystem, and all the different roles that support the industry. After immersive opportunities to read, listen, watch, and even have hands-on learning in this area, the exhibit led to the great outdoors, where permanent structures straight from the books came to life and awaited our exploration. Songs written and performed by John R. Erickson played over the speakers in the ranch house, only one of the buildings of the M-Cross Ranch replica, and into Sally May’s garden. The horse barn has a cowboy projected on the wall as he and his horse teach about the different parts and uses of a saddle. Many other fun parts of the outside extension include a guide to native prairie grasses, a Wolf Creek replica, water pumps, a guide to windmills, information on the importance of good water sources on a ranch, and so much more that we could have happily spent the whole day diving into.
To make sure we had seen it all, we then walked around the nineteen acres that hold over fifty relocated historic buildings. Making the most of the land, the winding paved path leads to a sign in the yard of each building that tells the history behind it. Most buildings you can walk right into and tour, while others can be peered at through windows, and the architecture can be admired from the outside. We found the iconic red 6666 Ranch barn, dugouts, a train and depot, a church, a schoolhouse, an Adobe house, a Queen-Anne-style house, and many others. The buildings have period-accurate furniture and knick-knacks staged within, and some structures are around two hundred years old!
The National Ranching Heritage Center left us all in awe, and the whole family talked about it for quite a while after. It was another memorable experience and somehow even more amazing than my first visit. There was something for everyone that we all enjoyed, and we didn’t even get the chance to see it all! I certainly look forward to my next visit. Wishing you the best on your own treks!
Reflective Question:
Who from North American Western history do you think deserves their own exhibit?
What information on them would you make sure was included?