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Pecos began as a crossroads for Indian migrations, overland cattle trails, cavalry
exploration, and west- ward bound pioneers fording the Pecos River. Within 30 miles,
legendary cattle and wagon trails such as the Chisholm Trail, Goodnight-Loving Trail,
and the Butterfield Overland mail route crossed at points like Emigrants Crossing
and Horsehead Crossing. Many more trails and crossings were never named.
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By 1873, Pecos had developed into a center for area ranches. The town became a gathering
place for cowboys who traveled as far as 75 miles in a day to visit the business
district. This may have been why in 1883 many cowboys from the area were in town
to challenge each other to a Fourth of July Rodeo. Whatever the reason, the rodeo
that took place in Pecos on that hot summer day became known as the “World’s First
Rodeo.” The tradition continues today as spectators come from all over to enjoy
the annual West of the Pecos Rodeo.
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Another big attraction in Pecos is its West of the Pecos Museum. Open year
round, the museum boasts over 50 rooms of fascinating memorabilia, mementos, and
artifacts. The museum is housed in the restored 19th century Orient Hotel and
its adjoining #11 Saloon. The saloon still has a bullet hole near the door that
was the result of a long ago gunfight reminding visitors that Pecos was a true
frontier town in the Old West.
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Pecos is not only known for its colorful history but also for its delicious cantaloupes.
The sweet Pecos Cantaloupes, which were served on dining cars of trains passing
through town, quickly became known nationwide. The tasty melons are still a popular
treat across the country today.
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Pecos captivates visitors of all ages with its rich heritage and continues to be
a gathering place where people can enjoy a good dose of West Texas hospitality.
For more information on Pecos, visit www.pecostx.com.
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Night in Old Pecos/Cantaloupe Festival
This one day event in historic downtown Pecos brings thousands to enjoy games, good
food, live music, and entertainment to celebrate the diversity of our cultures.
For general or vendor information please contact the Pecos Area Chamber of Commerce
at 432-445-2406 or visit our web site at www.pecostx.com.
West of the Pecos Rodeo
It all began in 1883; cowboys rode in from miles around to challenge each other’s
skills. This annual event earned Pecos the title “Home of the World’s First Rodeo”.
Check the web site for ticket prices, dates, times, and other activities. www.pecosrodeo.com
West of the Pecos Museum
Step back into Pecos’ colorful history as you enter the Museum. Exhibits show life
as it was for lawmen, ranchers, doctors, bankers, schoolmarms, saloon keepers, and
their families. Within the 1896 Saloon & 1904 Hotel, the museum houses over 50 rooms
of western heritage, including collections of barbed wire, saddles, arrowheads,
guns, military & local lore. For more information visit our web site at www.westofthepecosmuseum.com.
BBQ Cook-off
The Reeves County Sheriff’s Posse Championship BBQ Cook-off is a great way to experience
outdoor cooking in West Texas. The participants at the annual fall event com- pete
to see who cooks the best Brisket and Ribs West of the Pecos. For more information
call 432-445-2406 or visit our web site at www.pecostx.com.
Reeves County Fall Fair
Celebrating more than 60 years, this two day event gathers folks from miles away.
Participants demonstrate their knowledge of the arts through history home life,
animal husbandry and other aspects of earlier times. For further information call
432-445-2406 or visit www.pecostx.com.
(For other upcoming events visit our web site at www.pecostx.com, call us at 432-445-2406,
or e-mail us at pcoc@cebridge.net.)