Longhorn History
For some background on our passion, the Texas Longhorn became the foundation of the American cattle industry by claiming first rights in the untamed, newly discovered Americas more than 500 years ago. The Texas Longhorn's ancestors were brought to the Americas by Spanish conquistadors starting with Christopher Columbus's second voyage in 1493.These cattle, initially of Andalusian, Barrenda, and Retinto breeds, were well-suited to the arid and rugged landscapes of the Southwest. These cattle, primarily from the Iberian Peninsula, were the ancestors of the Texas Longhorn breed. For centuries, they roamed freely, developing resilience to heat, drought, and disease, becoming a hardy and adaptable breed. In 1690, the first herd of cattle was driven north from Mexico to land that would eventually become Texas.
After the Civil War, with the decimation of the buffalo and the need for beef, Texas Longhorns became the foundation of the cattle industry. Millions of Longhorns were driven north along trails like the Chisholm Trail to railheads for shipment to eastern markets, playing a vital role in the economic recovery of the Southwest. The Longhorn became a powerful symbol of the American West, representing ruggedness, freedom, and the spirit of the frontier.
The introduction of barbed wire fencing and the preference for other breeds with higher beef yields led to a decline in the Longhorn population. By the 20th century, Texas Longhorns were nearly extinct due to crossbreeding with other cattle, but efforts to preserve the breed led to their resurgence according to the Texas State Historical Association. Recognizing their historical significance, conservation efforts were initiated, including the establishment of a protected herd at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge in 1927.
Today, Texas Longhorns are experiencing a resurgence in popularity, valued for their lean beef, hardiness, and unique appearance. They remain a cultural icon of Texas and the American West, celebrated for their history and distinctive characteristics. The breed's genetic traits are also being used to improve other cattle breeds and enhance their adaptability to changing climates and environments.