Los Ciboleros (New Mexican Buffalo Hunters)
Historical marker location:For centuries Pueblo Indians of present New Mexico trekked to the plains to hunt buffalo to supplement from the Spanish in the 17th century, the annual trips were made more easily and with greater success. By the 19th Century, the Ciboleros (from "Cibolo" -- Spanish for buffalo) became very important, providing food for the growing New Mexican population and hides for the rich Santa Fe-Chihuahua trade. Cibolero expeditions often included as many as 150 people. The daring cazadores (hunters), picturesque in leather jackets and flat straw hats, rode into the herds armed only with lances, killing 8 to 25 bison each in one foray, and depending on the speed, agility, and skill of their horses for safety. Others, including occasional women and children, cut meat into strips for drying and cured the hides for tanning. With their carts laden with fruits of the hunt, the Ciboleros returned to New Mexico and a hero's welcome. The Plains Indians, protecting their hunting grounds, maintained constant warfare against the Ciboleros throughout the 19th century, but the colorful lancers survived until Anglo-American hunters decimated the great buffalo herds in the late 1870s
As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.
Texas is also home to the world's largest honky-tonk, Billy Bob's Texas in Fort Worth. The venue covers three acres and can hold up to 6,000 people.
The settlement of Randall County began with the arrival of ranchers in the late 1870s, who found the area ideal for cattle grazing due to its vast grasslands and access to water sources such as the Canadian River. In the early years, the county experienced growth through the establishment of ranches and small communities. The discovery of oil in the early 1900s brought further economic opportunities to the area.
During the early 20th century, the county's population grew steadily, and agriculture became a major industry. Cotton, wheat, and other crops were cultivated throughout the region, with a focus on dryland farming techniques. The county's agricultural success was bolstered by the development of irrigation systems and improved transportation infrastructure, such as the arrival of railroads.
In the mid-20th century, Randall County experienced significant growth and development. The city of Amarillo, which is partially located within the county, became a hub for business, commerce, and industry in the region. The county's economy diversified, with the growth of manufacturing, healthcare, and service industries. Today, Randall County continues to thrive as a center of economic activity and a vibrant community with a rich and storied history.
Randall County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Randall County, Texas.
- 1876 - Randall County was established by the Texas legislature.
- 1880 - The county's first courthouse was built in the town of Henrietta.
- 1889 - Canyon City became the county seat and a new courthouse was constructed.
- 1899 - West Texas State Normal College (now West Texas A&M University) was established in Canyon.
- 1910 - The county's population reached over 8,000 residents.
- 1928 - The current Randall County Courthouse was built in downtown Canyon.
- 1954 - Palo Duro State Park was created, covering a large area in the county.
- 1984 - The Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum in Canyon became the largest history museum in Texas.
- 2000 - The population of Randall County surpassed 100,000 residents.
- 2019 - The county experienced rapid growth, becoming one of the fastest-growing counties in Texas.