Historical Marker
Lombardy Irrigation Ditch
Historical marker location:
RR 2748 and 1120 intersection,, Rio Frio, Texas
( from Leakey go south on US Highway 83 approximately 6.5 miles to RR 1120; go east on RR 1120 approximately 1.5 miles to (R.O.W.) at intersection of RR 1120 and RR 2748; Rio Frio Community)
Marker installed: 1968
Dug in 1868, in pick-and-shovel operation, by Lombardy Irrigation Company, whose officers were N. M. C. Patterson, W. F. Smith, and T. Watkins.
Besides channeling water to irrigate over 800 acres, the 2-mile ditch furnished power for a cotton gin, and shingle, grist, and flour mills.
The settlement which grew up in the area was known as "The Ditch" until a post office was established in 1875. It was then named "Rio Frio" ("Cold River").
For a century the ditch has irrigated lands of families of two original company officers. (1968).
Texas is known for its love of football, and the state has produced many great football players, including legends like Tom Landry, Earl Campbell, and Vince Young.