Humans are believed to have traveled through the remote and dramatic landscape near the confluence of the Pecos River and the Rio Grande for centuries. For years, the cliff across the river from this site was home to a pair of golden eagles, whose . . . — — Map (db m5821) HM
In 1896, Judge Roy Bean made national headlines with a unique boxing match held at this site. Robert James Fitzsimmons was to fight James J. Corbett, the heavyweight champion, but the Legislature had outlawed boxing in Texas. While promoters sought . . . — — Map (db m5802) HM
"Law West of the Pecos" Courtroom. Named for Judge Bean's idol, actress Lillie Langtry.
Recorded Texas Historic Landmark, 1965.
Lower marker This historic site is preserved for posterity by the State Department of Highways & Public . . . — — Map (db m26541) HM
Langtry was created in 1882, when the Galveston, Harrisburg & San Antonio Railroad, later known as Southern Pacific, signed a deed with the Torres family, who owned the land. The town, which provided water for locomotives, developed from a tent town . . . — — Map (db m5791) HM
The first Langtry School was built on this site prior to 1900. A 1911 school building had a bell to summon children to class and the community to Sunday School. The academic year typically lasted six months or less, with reading, writing, civics and . . . — — Map (db m226066) HM
Judge Roy Bean lived a life in which fiction became so intermingled with fact that he became a legend within his lifetime. Basis for his renown were the decisions which he reached in this building as the Law West of the Pecos. Court was held as . . . — — Map (db m5822) HM
Tennessee native Robert T. Hill (1858-1941) moved to Comanche, Texas at age 16 and developed an interest in Texas geology. Educated at Columbia University, he worked for the U.S. Geological Survey, the University of Texas and as State Geologist. . . . — — Map (db m5820) HM
In the 1870-80s, brothers Cesario, Bernardo and Juan Torres were prominent west Texas citizens due to their irrigation work in the region. For work out west, Bernardo received land in Val Verde County at the Rio Grande - Pecos River confluence. His . . . — — Map (db m5801) HM
Born in 1868, England native William H. Dodd settled in Val Verde County by 1894, establishing a ranch and general merchandise store. He also served as postmaster, operating the post office from his store, which occupied this site for many years. . . . — — Map (db m5800) HM
