Texas Longhorn

Roaming through the grasslands of Fort Griffin State Park is this special herd of cattle and one of the state's most iconic symbols. The herd of 250 longhorns is officially registered and protected by the government in order to preserve the heritage and lineage of this majestic species. Longhorns are direct decedents of cattle that were brought over by Spanish explores in the 1600s. Although they were initially hunted as game, longhorns soon became a vital source of income for many ranchers, especially during the dire times of the Civil War. In the mid-1900s, herds were permanently moved to Fort Griffin State Park (as well as San Angelo State Park), and measurements were put in place to protect their legacy.