King Ranch | Corpus Christi

King Ranch, located in South Texas, is one of the largest and most renowned working ranches in the United States, covering approximately 825,000 acres. It has a rich history and has played a crucial role in cattle ranching, agriculture, and the development of unique livestock breeds. Here is an in-depth look at what makes King Ranch a fascinating and iconic landmark:

History of King Ranch

King Ranch was established in 1853 by Captain Richard King, a steamboat captain, and his partner, Gideon K. Lewis. Initially a land acquisition, King expanded rapidly, making it one of the largest ranches in the U.S. The ranch's influence on American ranching, cattle breeding, and agriculture is immense. The ranch was a leader in the development of the Santa Gertrudis cattle breed, a hybrid created by crossing Brahman bulls with Shorthorn cows. This breed was designed to thrive in the hot and humid climate of South Texas, which was previously not conducive to cattle farming.

King Ranch was also instrumental in the development of the Quarter Horse and contributed significantly to the agricultural practices of the region.

Ranch Divisions

King Ranch is divided into several distinct areas:

Santa Gertrudis Division: The original division, where Captain Richard King’s operations first began. It’s named after the Santa Gertrudis Creek, where the first cattle were bred.

Laureles Division: Known for its rich history and contributions to King Ranch's operations. It’s a significant part of the ranch’s agricultural endeavors.

Encino Division: A diverse region of the ranch with a focus on agriculture, particularly the growth of various crops.

Norias Division: The largest division of the ranch, it encompasses a vast expanse of land, covering multiple counties in South Texas. It plays a significant role in King Ranch's day-to-day operations.

These divisions are spread across six counties: Kleberg, Kenedy, Brooks, Jim Wells, Nueces, and Willacy.

Santa Gertrudis Cattle

One of King Ranch's most significant achievements was the development of the Santa Gertrudis breed. In the 1920s, Robert J. Kleberg Jr., the ranch’s manager, began crossbreeding Brahman bulls with Shorthorn cows. The result was a hardy breed of cattle capable of thriving in the extreme heat and humidity of the Texas climate. Santa Gertrudis cattle are renowned for their adaptability, hardiness, and ability to produce high-quality beef. The breed became the first American breed of beef cattle, and it remains a vital part of King Ranch’s operations today.

King Ranch Museum

Located in Kingsville, Texas, the King Ranch Museum showcases the rich history of the ranch and its contributions to ranching, agriculture, and South Texas culture. The museum offers several exhibits that provide an immersive look into the ranch's history:

"From OLD SORREL to the Present": This exhibit highlights the evolution of King Ranch Quarter Horses, particularly focusing on Old Sorrel, a legendary horse that helped shape the ranch’s legacy.

Artifacts: The museum houses a collection of saddles, vintage vehicles, firearms, and other equipment that were historically used on the ranch.

Photographic Collection: The museum features works by photographer Toni Frissell from the early 1940s, capturing the people, livestock, and landscapes of King Ranch.

Daily Ranch Tours

King Ranch offers guided bus tours for visitors who wish to learn more about the ranch's operations and history. The tours include:

Historic Sites: Visitors will see notable landmarks such as the original Santa Gertrudis Creek campsite where Captain Richard King first began his operations.

Wildlife Viewing: The tour provides a chance to observe wildlife native to the ranch, including white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species. The ranch is a haven for biodiversity and conservation efforts.

Ranch Operations: The tours offer insights into the everyday workings of the ranch, from cattle and horse breeding programs to agricultural and land management practices.

These tours take place Tuesday through Saturday at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., lasting approximately 1.5 hours. Tickets are priced at $20 for adults, with discounts available for seniors, military, and students.

King Ranch Saddle Shop

For those looking to take home a piece of King Ranch’s legacy, the King Ranch Saddle Shop offers a variety of handcrafted goods, including custom saddles, leather products, and Western-style apparel. Established in 1853, the saddle shop is known for its high-quality craftsmanship. Visitors can find a wide range of products, from saddles and belts to wallets and jackets, all made with the finest materials.

Visitor Information

Address: 2205 W Texas Highway 141, Kingsville, TX 78363

Phone: (361) 592-8055

Significance and Legacy

King Ranch is more than just a working ranch; it is a symbol of the American ranching spirit and has played an essential role in the development of cattle ranching in the U.S. It has also contributed significantly to the conservation and preservation of South Texas’ natural habitats. King Ranch is a cultural landmark that continues to influence the way ranching is practiced today, and it remains an active, functioning operation with a deep respect for its historical roots.

Whether you’re interested in the ranching history, the wildlife, or the legacy of the Santa Gertrudis cattle, King Ranch offers a fascinating look into one of the most iconic ranches in the world. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in American history, agriculture, or the spirit of the American West.