Journey Jotters

For as long as I can remember, stories of cowboys, horses and cattle drives have fascinated me. After moving to Dallas, I felt a kinship with the many life-size statues of cowboys and cattle. Several years ago, I had the chance to visit Frisco Central Park, at the corner of Parkwood and Gaylord. The other day, out of the blue, I had some time on my hands and decided to re-visit this park, in the dead of winter.

The park is a dedication to cowboys, their cattle herds and the great cattle drives that formed such an integral part of this land’s history. It brings to life the Shawnee Trail, one of the oldest and most active cattle trails, that allowed for cattle to be herded from Texas to Missouri. Quite an achievement, considering the cowboys had to manage the hundreds of heads of cattle and the brutality of the elements while sticking to a grueling schedule of days in the saddle.

 

Aptly named “Cattle Drive”, the proud Texas longhorns and their cowboys, the horses that were the cowboys’ constant companions, the cook with his chuck wagon and the many Texas sayings are all brought to life by creator Anita Pauwels.

At the time of my visit, there was ongoing renovation. But I am certain, in summer, this will be one of the best places to visit, right in the heart of Frisco.

 

Join me, as I journey back in time, to experience a cattle drive.