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History
in a Pecan Shell
Bovina's history is encapsulated in the Historical
Marker erected in 1968 on US 60 next to large bull sculpture.
Marker
Text: Early in the 20th century, this was one of largest cattle shipping points
in the United States. Originated as the Hay Hook Line Camp of the XIT -- famed
ranch that received over 3,000 acres of land in payment for building Texas State
Capitol, 1882-1888. One of the earliest structures in Parmer County, division
number eight headquarters of XIT, stood 400 yards northeast of site of this marker.
The shipping pasture, 640 acres in area, was 1 mile east. The Pecos & Northern
Texas Railroad built to this point in 1898, and cattle for eastern markets were
loaded here. Train crews called the place "Bull Town", but the community chose
the name "Bovina" when establishing the post office in 1899. This was the first
post office in Parmer County, created 1876, named for Martin Parmer (1778-1850),
patriot and signer of Texas Declaration of Independence. Although known to explorers
early as 18th century, county had few inhabitants before 1907, when it was organized,
with Bovina one of its leading towns. By 1915, Bovina had 200 people, 2 churches,
a bank, a school, and a hotel for prospective settlers. It is now market and supply
center for rich area of irrigated farms, and still produces fine cattle. (1968)
- Gary E. McKee
Area
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