George Ranch Historical Park
This 23,000-acre living history museum provides a glimpse into one family’s life over four generations. More than 100 years of Texas history are explored at this nineteenth century ranch, which is still in operation today, beginning from 1824 when the area was still part of Mexico and taking visitors through the different phases of evolution to when it became a successful ranch operation.
Costumed interpreters will bring history to life as you tour and engage with the different houses on the property. You’ll start with the 1830s Jones Stock Farm, the homestead of Henry and Nancy Jones, where you can help harvest crops, grind corn and feed livestock, as well as learn about the hardships of the time. Next move on the 1860s Ryon Prairie Home, where you’ll meet Colonel Ryon and learn about what it was like on the ranch when it was rapidly expanding. In the grand 1890s Davis Victorian Mansion you’ll discover a working blacksmith shop, an exhibit on the transportation of longhorn cattle to market, high tea on the porch and what like was life for a freed slave after the Civil War. The tour concludes with the 1930s George Ranch House, with original barns, cattle-roping and crafts demonstrations and interactive programs showcasing ranch life during the 30s and 40s.
We recommend allowing about three to four hours to make the most of your time, as well as visiting on a Saturday for the chance to experience a traditional ranch lunch. Venues vary by date, with meals changing to reflect the designated time period. For example, while a meal in the 1830s Jones Stock Farm includes grilled pork, smokehouse sausage, sweet potato pone, beans, cornbread and blackberry cobbler, the menu in the 1930s Bachelor House features beef brisket, barbecue sauce, smokehouse sausage, beans, slaw, potato salad, bread and blackberry cobbler.
The George Ranch Historical Park is open Tuesday through Saturday, 9am to 5pm. Tickets are $10 for adults, $9 for seniors 62 and over, $5 for children aged 5 through 15 and free for children four and under.
