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About the Chisholm Trail in Texas
Historians have long debated aspects of the Chisholm Trail’s history, including the exact route and even its name. Although they may not agree on the specifics, most would not argue that the 20 years of cattle drives was one of the most colorful periods of Texas history. The purpose of this tour is not to resolve these debates, but rather to help travelers explore the history and lore associated with the legendary cattle-driving route.
We hope you find the controversy part of the intrigue, while you investigate the historic sites, museums and attractions to reach your own conclusions.
The Chisholm Trail in Texas History
1835-36
The Texas Revolution
1845
The United States annexes Texas as the 28th state
1861-65
The American Civil War
1867
Joseph G. McCoy establishes a cattle-shipping terminal in Abilene, Kansas.
1871
Approximately 700,000 cattle reach the Kansas railhead.
1880-89
The Chisholm trail era draws to a close during the 1880s
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Marking the Trail
Almost from the day the last steer went up the Chisholm Trail, folks have sought to preserve the stories of the brave men and women of the cattle drive era. Tales of adventure were passed down from ranchers and drovers to the next generation while dime novels sensationalized the cowboy for the nation.
Physical markers began to appear in 1936 when P.P. Ackley and the Texas Longhorn Chisholm Trail Association placed dozens of metal and granite markers up the Chisholm Trail to commemorate its route.
The exact route of the Chisholm Trail may always be debated, but this mobile tour is just the latest effort celebrate the legacy of the adventurous cowboys and enterprising cattlemen who blazed this legendary trail.