Castle Gap

Pass on an ancient highway of the Southwest. From time immemorial Indians came this way in migrations from Canada to Mexico. Their paths were followed in 19th century by west-bound 49'ers, the Butterfield Overland mail coaches (1858-1861), cattle drives on Goodnight-Loving Trail (mapped 1866). Treasure of the late emperor Maximilian of Mexico is said to have been buried in the vicinity by his aides in the 1860s.

Mesa and pass dominate landscape, reminding Texans of legendary eras.

(On back) Castle Gap Park. Dedicated to the memory of San Angelo rancher and livestock dealer Caton Jacobs (1901-1964), who owned this land from the 1930s until his death. This 100-acre park was given to Upton County by the family of Mr. Jacobs, who came to Texas from South Dakota. He became a devoted student of the history of Castle Gap while running sheep on the surrounding rangeland. In common with people of this area, he wised to see a park established here to honor the history of Castle Gap. (1968).