The Museum of the West Texas Frontier in Stamford illustrates the Five Stages of Settlement on the West Texas Frontier. Every city, town, and community in rural West Texas experienced these stages which included the Comanches, Ranchers, Farmers, Railroads and Towns. Prior to the Civil War, the Comanches dominated the West Texas frontier. Settlers began to encroach on their territory with disastrous results. Once Native Americans were pushed onto reservations in 1875, this primitive land was perfect for grazing, providing opportunities for Ranchers moving west. Shortly after ranches were established, farming families followed and began to establish communities. Railroads provided a mode of transportation that connected outlying frontier ranches and farms with markets back east. Communities grew into towns as churches and schools were established and railroads brought in merchants and skilled laborers. The town of Stamford was built by the Swenson Ranch for the sole purpose of enticing the railroad to bring a line closer to their ranch at Flat Top. The first train arrived in the newly built town in 1900, and tracks were laid to other towns close by from this hub.

The museum host engaging educational programs and exhibits highlighting the frontier pioneers that settled this wild land. With our Kid's Discovery Room, children learn the five stages of settlement through interactive play areas. Our rotating exhibits offer something new to visitors every time you come through our doors.

Come learn and explore the West Texas Frontier through the museum in Stamford.